Introduction to the Side Crucifix

The Side Crucifix is a positional control technique distinct from the Back Crucifix, though both share fundamental principles. While the Back Crucifix is executed with the instructor's chest on the opponent's back, the Side Crucifix is performed across the opponent's side.

Core Mechanics: Elbow Control

Both Crucifix variations prioritize controlling the opponent's elbows as the central mechanism of the position. By pinning both elbows away from the body, the instructor eliminates the opponent's primary defensive options and creates a vulnerable posture.

Key Components of Side Crucifix

The Side Crucifix requires two essential elements: an underhook on the far side and a pin of the opponent's near-side elbow. The elbow pin can be achieved using the front shin, back shin, or a leg scissor configuration.

Defensive Vulnerability and Positional Advantages

When an opponent's elbows are pinned outward and their legs are passed, their primary defense—elbow-to-torso connection—is eliminated. This creates a significantly weakened defensive position where approximately 90% of their remaining defense depends solely on hip movement.

Systematic Setup Progression

The fundamental sequence begins with establishing an underhook on the far side, followed by controlling the near-side elbow. The instructor must maintain consistent elbow control while transitioning between pinning methods and preventing the opponent from retracting their arm.

Chancery: The Dominant Finishing Framework

Chancery refers to controlling the opponent's head and shoulders underneath the instructor's body weight and legs. From the Side Crucifix, this creates superior upper-body control that prevents escape through twisting or turning while facilitating multiple strangulation and arm lock submissions.

Submission-Focused Strategy

Unlike positions that score points in competition, both Crucifix variations are designed purely for submission finishes. The extended arm position created by the Crucifix enables high-percentage choke and lock attacks while the compressed diaphragm creates additional physiological pressure on the bottom player.

Mastering the Side Crucifix Jiu Jitsu Move with John Danaher

Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics

Standard Crucifix

2 min read·7 key moments·PT12M48S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Side Crucifix
•Core Mechanics: Elbow Control
•Key Components of Side Crucifix
•Defensive Vulnerability and Positional Advantages

John Danaher demonstrates how to do the Side Crucifix in this BJJ Training video. - Click Here To Check Out John Danaher's Instructional Videos - https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/fighter_JOHN-DANAHER - For all your BJJ Gear and Apparel Needs Visit - https://store.bjjfanatics.com/ - Are you a BJJ Fanatics Insider? If not, you are missing out! Join now at: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/insiders-club - Bernardo Faria is a 5x World Champion. Bernardo started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Juiz de Fora - MG, Brazil at the age of 14 in 2001. After receiving the Black Belt from his first instructor Ricardo Marques in 2008, He moved to Sao Paulo to join BJJ legend Fabio Gurgel and his Alliance team. After many years of training and winning many major titles, Bernardo moved to NYC in 2013 to train and teach at Marcelo Garcia Academy. In 2015 Bernardo achieved his dream of winning the IBJJF World Championship Open class title and his division, doing the double Gold and becoming the 1st in the IBJJF Ranking and also chosen as the best athlete of 2015. Bernardo Faria has now taken on the mission to share some of the lessons, techniques, experiences and more that he has learned along in his 16 years and counting as a BJJ student, teacher and world class competitor. Subscribe to his channel, and join him in this amazing BJJ Journey. We promise that you will also improve your BJJ with his awesome Video Lessons, Episodes of his "5 Minutes BJJ Talk" and more www.fujisports.com - 15% OFF Coupon Code: FARIA15 www.bjjfanatics.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: YOUTUBEFARIA www.fujimats.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: FARIAMAT10 http://bernardofaria.com https://www.facebook.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://www.instagram.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://twitter.com/bernardofariajj

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard crucifix?

This video covers introduction to the side crucifix, core mechanics: elbow control, key components of side crucifix. It provides detailed instruction from Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics.

How long does it take to learn standard crucifix?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.