Setup and Bridge Defense
When an opponent on the bottom uses an underhook to bridge and knock the top player over, the top player responds by posting their hands and floating with the bridge movement. Rather than resisting, the top player uses this momentum to step up high behind the opponent's shoulders while maintaining tight control.
Establishing S-Mount Position
The top player steps behind the opponent's shoulder and reinforces their leg by gripping their own knee, closing the elbow and knee to trap the opponent's arm in the armpit. This position prevents the opponent from putting their back flat on the mat or freeing their arm.
Arm Trapping Drill
As a foundational exercise, the top player practices the catch without the submission by responding to the bridge attempt, floating with the movement, and securing the opponent's arm in the shoulder position. This develops the muscle memory needed to consistently catch the arm before proceeding to the finish.
Controlling the Wrist
Once the arm is trapped in S-mount, the top player uses their free hand to C-grip the opponent's wrist and applies body weight to pin the arm to the ground. The shin is then slid over the opponent's bicep to further control the captured arm.
Modified Kimura Finish
From the arm trap position, the top player reaches back with a C-grip on the wrist while securing the opponent's elbow, executing a modified Kimura grip that generates submission pressure. This finish works when the opponent is not explosively resisting.
Foot Positioning for Monoplata
To prevent the opponent from cutting the top player's foot under their shoulders during explosive bridge attempts, the top player adjusts by stepping higher behind the opponent's head. This higher foot placement provides better security and prevents the opponent from dislodging the control.
Monoplata Transition and Control
The top player falls to their hip and side while maintaining wrist control under the armpit with their elbow posted on the ground. Critical control points are keeping the wrist trapped and preventing the opponent from sitting up or pulling the leg off the chest through tight hip positioning.
Securing the Elbow and Applying Pressure
The top player reaches over with their free arm to grip the opponent's elbow while the leg remains pinned. The thigh is then adjusted to rest on the top player's own knuckles, reinforcing the arm trap with increased mechanical advantage.
Finishing Sequence
The top player squeezes their knee toward the ceiling while driving their hips into the opponent's elbow to complete the monoplata submission. This combined pressure from knee elevation and hip drive creates the mechanical lock that forces the opponent to submit.
Monoplata from Mount
Key Takeaways
- •Setup and Bridge Defense
- •Establishing S-Mount Position
- •Arm Trapping Drill
- •Controlling the Wrist
Here is a simple drill for catching your opponent's arm in the monoplata submission when they try to bridge you from the mount with an under hook on your back.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about monoplata lock?
This video covers setup and bridge defense, establishing s-mount position, arm trapping drill. It provides detailed instruction from Esaki Jiu Jitsu.
How long does it take to learn monoplata lock?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing monoplata lock?
The top player reaches over with their free arm to grip the opponent's elbow while the leg remains pinned. The thigh is then adjusted to rest on the top player's own knuckles, reinforcing the arm trap with increased mechanical advantage.
