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Master Cycle Blue Belt Stripe 4 Lesson 10

Chapter 2.1: Side Mount Controls
Technique: Ultimate Underhooks

Overview
Many of our side mount attack systems, rely on the isolation of arms and the acquisition of underhooks. In this lesson, we will delve into
the science of isolating your opponent’s arms using maximum leverage from any side mount position. We will begin with the powerful
concept of the Forearm Pry, and then we will discuss how to isolate your opponent’s arms when they are too tight for the standard pry-
ing methods.

Technical Slices
1. Forearm Pry
• Indicator: Opponent defends with tight hands from side mount bottom.
• Essential Detail: Effective pry of the opponent’s forearm with leverage.
• Most Common Mistake: Failure to drop the north elbow over the head soon enough.
• Bonus Detail: Cup the elbow and go skydiving if necessary.
• Drill Orders: 3 reps, reverse roles.

2. Underhook Counters
• Indicator: Opponent inserts an underhook to begin their escape.
• Essential Detail: Immediate response before the underhook is activated.
• Most Common Mistake: Failure to identify the most efficient counter.
• Bonus Detail: If all else fails, knee on stomach and pry from there.
• Drill Orders: 3 reps, reverse roles.

3. North Pry
• Indicator: Opponent keeps their hands too tucked for the standard pry.
• Essential Detail: Using maximum leverage to pry the hands apart from their body.
• Most Common Mistake: Failure to insert efficiently the shin.
• Bad Guy Reminder: Switch between turning and remaining flat.
• Drill Orders: 2 reps, reverse roles.

Rapid Mastery Drill: Levels 1 and 2

Practice all variations of the newly learned technique against a Level 1 (Strong) and a Level 2 (Skilled) opponent. At each level, your
partner should begin with manageable intensity, and then gradually increase the intensity until you reach failure. Analyze the drill to
determine whether your execution error or a technique limitation triggered the failure. What happens during the RMD is less important
than what you learn as a result of the RMD.

Focus Sparring: Fight Sim

Gloves on one, mouth guards on both. Switch roles at the end of each round.

Mindset Minute
Having an underhook from side mount is one of the most important control elements. Mastering the ability to acquire underhooks from
anywhere is an invaluable investment in your side mount future.

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