SIDE CONTROL Meaning and
Definition
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Side control is a dominant position in various grappling disciplines, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and mixed martial arts (MMA), where one fighter gains control over their opponent by immobilizing them on the ground. In side control, the fighter on top secures a dominant position by placing their body perpendicular to their opponent, with their chest and hips resting on the grounded opponent's torso. This position allows the fighter on top to exert control and limit their opponent's movements.
From side control, the top fighter has various options to advance their position or execute submissions. They can apply pressure with their bodyweight to exhaust their opponent or transition to other positions, such as mount or back control. Additionally, side control provides the top fighter with opportunities to launch ground and pound strikes or apply submissions, such as chokes and joint locks, from a stable and controlling position.
For the fighter on the bottom, side control presents a challenging situation as they are limited in their options to escape or reverse the position. This makes it crucial for them to employ defensive techniques, such as framing, bridging, and shrimping, to create space and regain a more advantageous position.
Overall, side control is a fundamental and strategically important position in grappling, offering the top fighter control, offensive opportunities, and the potential to finish the fight, while posing significant challenges for the fighter on the bottom.
Etymology of SIDE CONTROL
The term side control has its roots in the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art that originated in Brazil. In Portuguese, the language spoken in Brazil, side control translates to controle lateral.
