To grab the shin or not to grab the shin?

The triangle is one of the most versatile and effective submissions in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. It can be used from a variety of positions, and it is relatively easy to learn. However, we will be addressing the mounted triangle in particular.

One of the biggest advantages of the mounted triangle is that it allows you to control your opponent's upper body with the weight of your entire body while isolating their neck and arm. Once you have your opponent in the triangle from the mount, you can use your legs to keep them pinned to the ground with relative ease in my opinion due to the assistance of gravity. In a traditional triangle from guard the opposite is true with gravity holding you down as oppose to opponent. 

The mounted triangle gives you a advantage in terms of positioning and leverage if you have the balance to maintain it which comes from an active constantly readjusting and well spread out base. You can use this advantage to land strikes, pass their guard, transition to other submissions, or simply wait for them to tired out depending on the situation.

The click bait question of “To grab the shin or not grab the shin?” was mostly just that. Generally speaking its a matter of preference and body type. Many people do not have the leg dexterity/mobility to lock up a triangle of any sort without assistant from their arm and that is ok. Of course the less steps to the same goal is arguably quicker, more efficient, but ultimately i find its the technician not the technique. By that i mean the BJJ artist with the greatest discipline and work ethic relative to the technical clash will win as oppose to the one taught the “best technique”.

By no means is the intent here to discount the triangle from guard. It is one of the highest percentage moves in jiu jitsu and a more often than not jiu jitsu artist will roll their from the mounted triangle in order to get the finish. My personal preference is to maintain top position and make my opponents ribs/stamina carry my weight until fatigue wears their defenses down enough to open up a submission opportunity from the top. If they manage to get on top from my mounted triangle the tradition triangle is their waiting.

The mounted triangle is a powerful tool that can be used to control your opponent and gain a strategic advantage. If you are looking for a submission that may give you an surprising edge in your BJJ game, the mounted triangle is a great option.

Here are some additional tips for using the mounted triangle strategically:

The mount base needs to be well spread and constant readjusting to maximize the pinning force and minimize the space available to your opponent

Use your legs and hips to control your opponent's upper body. Regardless of size differences most people’s legs and hips are stronger than most peoples arm and neck

Use the triangle to create openings for other attacks. Distract and tire your opponent and then attack the arm bar, or kimura

Once you have your opponent in the triangle from mount. WAIT. There is no rush if you are still on stop and on the attack.

Use the mounted triangle to finish the fight. If you can't get a submission, you can use the triangle to wear your opponent down and eventually force them to tap.

With ALOT of practice, you can learn to use the mounted triangle to its full potential. So what are you waiting for? Start practicing today! Looking for help? wholemaxperformance.com/contact