Introduction to the Monoplata
The monoplata is a high-percentage shoulder lock that should be part of every grappler's arsenal. This technique is particularly effective when an opponent attempts an underhook from side control to set up a single-leg takedown. Understanding when and how to recognize the setup is essential for successful execution.
Recognizing the Opponent's Intent
The monoplata setup occurs when an opponent gains an underhook from side control and begins turning into the defender to attack a single-leg takedown. The defender should recognize this postural shift as the immediate trigger to execute the monoplata counter. Waiting for this clear indicator is critical timing.
The Lean and Swing Mechanics
From side control, as the opponent commits to the underhook, the defender leans their body weight forward while swinging their arm down to secure the opponent's leg. This lean-and-swing motion is performed fluidly in a single motion rather than as two separate actions. The technique transitions the defender into the mounted monoplata position.
Position and Control Structure
In the monoplata position, the opponent's arm is controlled not by the defender's hands or feet, but by the top of the thigh and ribs creating a vice-like pressure. This mechanical advantage leaves the defender's hands and feet free for additional attacks and transitions. The position is highly efficient and opens multiple offensive options.
Primary Submissions from Monoplata
From the mounted monoplata, the defender can execute several high-percentage finishes including the Pete the Greek wrist lock, guillotine choke by controlling the chin, and kimura lock. The defender can also roll through to transition to an inverted monoplata or lift the opponent to attack the triangle choke. Each option is viable depending on how the opponent responds to pressure.
Baiting and Encouraging the Setup
To increase success rate, the defender can consciously bait the opponent by placing their leg in front of the opponent's underhook, essentially inviting the attack. Once the opponent commits to grabbing the leg, the lean-and-swing counter is executed immediately. This psychological setup increases the technique's effectiveness.
Common Mistake: Over-Pummeling
A significant technical error is attempting to win the underhook battle through excessive pummeling, which wastes energy and allows the opponent better positioning. The monoplata counter is far more efficient than fighting for hand placement. Practitioners should pivot their approach from reactive hand fighting to proactive position control.
Skill Level and Integration Timing
The monoplata is an advanced technique best learned at purple belt or brown belt level, as white belts may struggle to recognize the setup and execute it under pressure. Proper foundational side control and submission knowledge significantly improves retention and application. Practitioners should focus on simpler techniques before incorporating this into their game.
Monoplata by Jeff Glover
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Monoplata
- •Recognizing the Opponent's Intent
- •The Lean and Swing Mechanics
- •Position and Control Structure
MONOPLATA https://bjjfanatics.com In this jiu jitsu techniques video, Jeff Glover teaches how to do the Monoplata technique. - 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 - To learn more great Jiu Jitsu Techniques, visit https://www.bjjfanatics.com Jeff Glover is one of the BJJ world's most creative practitioners and competitors. This is an excerpt from his new DISMANTLING SIDE MOUNT instructional from BJJFanatics.com. BJJ Fanatics was started by a pair of black belts (Bernardo Faria & Michael Zenga) who feel that nothing is more important than improving your BJJ skills as much as possible in the least amount of time. Their aim was to create a shop for BJJ Students who don’t look at BJJ as a sport – but as a lifestyle. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAqme-CE-yLm01BV5nUjPPA Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/733553463659020/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjj.fanatics/?hl=en 15% OFF On All Of Our BJJ Instructional Videos - Just Use The Coupon Code: FANATICSYOUTUBE Website: https://bjjfanatics.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard monoplata?
This video covers introduction to the monoplata, recognizing the opponent's intent, the lean and swing mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Fanatics.
How long does it take to learn standard monoplata?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard monoplata?
A significant technical error is attempting to win the underhook battle through excessive pummeling, which wastes energy and allows the opponent better positioning. The monoplata counter is far more efficient than fighting for hand placement. Practitioners should pivot their approach from reactive hand fighting to proactive position control.
