North-South Position Definition
North-south is a ground control position where one grappler's head is positioned near their opponent's feet while their own feet point toward the opponent's head, creating a perpendicular alignment. This position is common in judo pins and can be executed with a slight offset. The controlling grappler can establish this position with various arm configurations: both arms under the opponent's arms, one arm under and one over, or both arms over.
Kimura Attack from North-South
The Kimura is the primary submission attack from north-south, executed by establishing an over-under arm configuration and creating a tight vise grip on the opponent's arm. The attacking grappler sprawls backward and can enhance the grip by capturing their own lapel if wearing a gi. The basic finish involves turning the opponent's face to the ground using the knee, then rotating their spine while pulling their tricep toward the chest and positioning their hand behind their back.
Kimura Finish Mechanics
The submission is completed by lifting the opponent's arm using body weight rather than arm strength, exploiting the principle that most people cannot sustain a one-handed grip for extended periods. The grappler can deadlift significantly more weight than the opponent can hang with a single hand, making the lifting motion more effective than trying to overpower the grip. Proper body positioning during the lift ensures the opponent cannot defend the submission.
Double-Under Arm Drag Attack
An alternative north-south attack begins with a double-under arm configuration where both hands cup under the opponent's arms, followed by sprawling backward. The grappler can grasp the opponent's lapels if they are wearing a gi, or clasp their own hands together if not, then walk progressively up the opponent's body. When the opponent's head pops through, the grappler sits back and transitions to taking the back with standard control.
North-South Choke Setup
The north-south choke exploits the opponent's defensive reaction when they lift their head to escape the Kimura attack. The grappler transitions by taking one arm and passing it under the opponent's head, positioning their bicep against the side of the opponent's neck. Using their ribs, the grappler turns the opponent's head to face away while maintaining the bicep pressure against the neck.
North-South Choke Finish
The choke is completed by repeatedly sprawling backward to apply pressure from the bicep against the throat while keeping the opponent's chin turned away. The grappler can increase friction and finishing power by wearing a gi, which makes it more difficult for the opponent to escape. Continuous sprawling backward prevents the opponent from tucking their chin to defend, ultimately exposing the neck for the finish.
My 3 Favorite North South Submission Attacks
Key Takeaways
- •North-South Position Definition
- •Kimura Attack from North-South
- •Kimura Finish Mechanics
- •Double-Under Arm Drag Attack
There are many great attacks you can use from the North-South position in BJJ. Grab my free BJJ guide at https://www.grapplearts.com/book that breaks down the 6 major positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the options that are available to you from each position. And if you're interested then here are some of my social media links where I put out new tips and techniques all the time... Tiktok (NEW): https://vm.tiktok.com/QQDSBt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephan_kes... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grapplearts Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/stephankesting Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephankesting If you’d like to listen to The Strenuous Life Podcast in audio-only form then check out these links… Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast... Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5NTGdrt... Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/step... And, as always, good luck with your training! Stephan Kesting Grapplearts.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about attacking north-south?
This video covers north-south position definition, kimura attack from north-south, kimura finish mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from Stephan Kesting.
How long does it take to learn attacking north-south?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing attacking north-south?
The north-south choke exploits the opponent's defensive reaction when they lift their head to escape the Kimura attack. The grappler transitions by taking one arm and passing it under the opponent's head, positioning their bicep against the side of the opponent's neck. Using their ribs, the grappler turns the opponent's head to face away while maintaining the bicep pressure against the neck.
