Knee on belly and transitions: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guide

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Top control · 8 minute lesson Pro

A mobile pin that scores and lets you move between side control, mount and the back.

Watch it on YouTubeSearch: Bjj knee on belly control and transitions. Videos by other coaches.

Knee on belly is a light, mobile pin. Your shin sits across their stomach or ribs, your other leg posts out wide and you stay upright. It makes them uncomfortable and opens up transitions.

Be careful with partners. Put your weight through the hip and thigh, not hard on the stomach or ribs. Ease off the moment they tap or complain.

Key points

Shin across the belly below the ribs, knee pointing at the opposite shoulder.
Post your other leg wide and keep your weight over the hips, not on the stomach.
Hold the collar or sleeve of the far arm with one hand and the trousers with the other.
Keep moving: when they turn, step over to mount or take the back.
Use it as a bridge to other positions, not as a place to stay.

Common mistakes and how to fix them

Crushing the stomach. Put your weight through your hips and the posted foot. This should be controlling, not painful.
Staying still. Knee on belly is for passing through. Move to mount, back or side control.
Reaching forward. Keep your hands on the collar and trousers and your balance over your base.

The rest is in the app

The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Top control module of Jiu-jitsu foundations.

Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.

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Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.