Turns
To dictate where the match takes place, you can turn your opponent on the mat throughout the match. A turn takes place whenever you move your opponent from his back to his stomach or the other way around. Begin by controlling your opponent's body, as keeping your weight on his core and grabbing his arm prevents him from reversing the move. A technique like the double chicken wing allows you to control both of your opponent's arms and his body, making it easier for you to turn him in whichever direction you desire.
Submissions
The rear-naked choke remains one of the first submissions that many grapplers learn. Gain control of your opponent's lower body with your legs, as this gives you more control over the situation. Wrap one arm around your opponent's windpipe and one arm around the back of his head. The hand on the back of the head pushes it downward, which applies more pressure to the submission.
Escape from Dominant Position
When your opponent gets you into north-south position, you can escape by using your heels to turn your body into a pike position. This gives your opponent less of your body with which to work and gives you room to escape. Once you reach the pike position, turn your palms towards your head and scoop upward. Moving your legs up puts you in a position to move out of the hold quickly and using your hands to break your opponent's grip gives you time to scramble to your feet.
Submission Escape
When your opponent has you in a guillotine, begin by turning your face into his elbow. Because he has both of his arms around your neck, you can pull down on his arms with your inside hand. As you pull on his arms, step toward his back and attempt to pull your head out. Remember to step with the back of your head leading, as doing so with the side of your head will hurt your neck. If you can get your head out with this motion, take your opponent's back with an offensive move.
