I started training BJJ around 2006. I’ve been training on and off since then. I’ve had up to 13 years off in a row. So actual years training is much less than it would appear. That being said, I’ve been in the game for some time.

One basic technique that I was never really taught well, or simply forgot, was how to hold a full mount. I think I have a very strong side control, but as one of my coaches explained yesterday, you are only using two limbs for control on the side mount. The full mount allows for using four limbs and is one of the most powerful positions in BJJ.

Personally, I never stayed on mount because I had no control from there, and if rolled, I was weak from my back. In essence, a full mount for me was a position that could lead to losing control and ending up in a weaker spot. So I never stayed on a full mount.

That seems to be changing since I started training in the Combatives program in Gracie Jujitsu. We spend a good deal of time going over positional control, including from the mount. For us and our self-defense style of BJJ, this is very important; control is everything. That’s why we spend an extensive amount of time working from our back and the various stages of the guard and punch defense.

Yesterday, I didn’t develop master-level mount control, but I got a better understanding of the mechanics, and I really tried to rely on proper technique instead of just sheer strength and power. Though I think that it is always a combination of the two. Without technique, I could not hold a full mount, but I’m sure power also factors into maintaining it.

My training partner and I were both a bit older but strong heavyweights. We were very playful about it but also serious and trying to catch each other. During reflex development drills, I was able to escape his mount, and then, not to be outdone, he escaped mine. We were laughing a lot but also learning from each other’s mistakes.

Today I’m a little banged up and sporting some new bruises, but yesterday was one of the best Combatives classes I’ve had. Positional control is very important, and I’m excited to keep building that skill. It’s helping me go from someone who never holds mount to someone who can. Also, because we spend so much time working from our backs, if I get rolled over, I’m less worried since I can still survive and even attack. Let’s get it!