Triangle from Mount | BJJ Submission

LLM Context: Submission Data Structure

Purpose: Blood choke submission from Mount position. Terminal state resulting in unconsciousness if held. Safety paramount - affects blood flow to brain rapidly.

Setup Requirements Checklist:

Starting position: Mount (S001) established with dominant control
Position control quality: High mount or s-mount angle achieved
Required grips: One arm trapped across centerline, head controlled
Angle optimization: Body angled for leg positioning, shoulder-to-hip line
Opponent vulnerability: Defensive structure broken, arm out of position
Space elimination: Triangle locked, ankle behind knee, no gaps
Timing recognition: Opponent frames incorrectly or pushes across centerline

Defense Awareness:

Early defense (transition phase): 60% escape success - prevent arm isolation
Position fighting (mount retention): 50% escape success - escape mount before setup
Technical escape (triangle forming): 35% escape success - stack or posture
Inevitable submission (locked tight): 0% escape → TAP IMMEDIATELY

Safety Q&A Patterns: Q: “How fast should pressure be applied?” A: “SLOW and progressive. Triangle from mount should take 3-5 seconds minimum in training after lock. Monitor partner’s consciousness continuously.”

Q: “What are the tap signals?” A: “Verbal ‘tap’, physical tap with free hand/feet on opponent or mat, any distress indication. Verbal tap critical if arms trapped.”

Q: “What if my partner doesn’t tap?” A: “STOP IMMEDIATELY if: partner goes limp, color changes, eyes close, makes gurgling sounds. Release and monitor consciousness.”

Q: “What are the injury risks?” A: “Loss of consciousness in 3-8 seconds, neck strain from transition, cervical stress. Always release immediately upon tap.”

Decision Tree for Execution:

IF mount_established AND arm_across_centerline:
    → Attempt triangle setup (Success Rate: [skill_level]%)
ELIF triangle_locked AND angle_created:
    → Apply progressive squeeze (3-5 seconds)
    → WATCH FOR TAP CONTINUOUSLY
ELIF tap_signal_received:
    → RELEASE IMMEDIATELY per protocol
ELSE:
    → Maintain mount, wait for better opportunity

⚠️ SAFETY NOTICE

This submission can cause LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS if applied improperly or held after tap.

Injury Risks: Loss of consciousness (3-8 seconds), neck strain during transition, cervical stress from incorrect angle
Application Speed: SLOW and progressive. 3-5 seconds minimum from lock to tap.
Tap Signals: Verbal “tap”, physical tap with free hand/feet, any sign of distress
Release Protocol:
1. Release leg squeeze immediately
2. Open triangle (unhook ankle)
3. Allow blood flow restoration
4. Monitor partner 10-15 seconds
Training Requirement: Intermediate level - requires mount proficiency and balance during transition
Never: Hold after tap, apply explosively, or trap both arms preventing tap

Remember: Triangle affects blood flow to brain. Your training partner trusts you with their consciousness. Respect the tap immediately.

Overview

The Triangle from Mount is an advanced blood choke that combines dominant position control with triangle mechanics. Executed from Mount, this submission capitalizes on arm positioning errors when the opponent attempts to defend or escape. The technique is particularly effective because it transitions from the dominant mount position while maintaining control throughout.

Unlike the triangle from guard (where you’re on bottom), the mounted triangle requires careful balance and timing during the transition. The mechanical advantage comes from using mount control to isolate the arm, then leveraging your legs to create the choking triangle while maintaining top position or transitioning through s-mount.

From Mount, the triangle typically develops when the opponent makes defensive errors - pushing with one arm across your centerline, attempting to frame, or reaching for grips. The submission exemplifies advanced BJJ: using dominant position to force reactions, then capitalizing on errors with high-percentage finishes.

Submission Properties

From Mount (S001):

Success Rates:

Beginner: 35%
Intermediate: 55%
Advanced: 75%

Technical Characteristics:

Setup Complexity: Medium - requires mount control and transition balance
Execution Speed: Medium - 3-5 seconds from lock to tap in training
Escape Difficulty: High - few escapes once triangle locked from mount
Damage Potential: Medium - can cause unconsciousness, neck strain
Target Area: Bilateral carotid arteries, anterior neck structures

Visual Finishing Sequence

From dominant mount position, you recognize the opponent’s right arm reaching across your centerline or framing incorrectly. You secure their wrist with your left hand, controlling it across your chest. Your right hand controls their head as you transition your hips high, moving toward s-mount position.

You swing your right leg across the back of their neck while maintaining balance on your left leg. Your ankle hooks behind your left knee, locking the triangle configuration with their head and trapped arm inside. You complete the transition, sitting back or falling to your side while maintaining the lock. Your hips angle to create the shoulder-to-hip line that makes their own shoulder compress their carotid.

You squeeze your knees together progressively while pulling their head down, applying increasing pressure to both sides of their neck. Their face shows increasing distress, color beginning to change. They tap repeatedly with their free hand on your leg or body. You immediately release the squeeze, open the triangle, and monitor their recovery.

Body Positioning:

Your position: Transitioned from mount through s-mount, triangle locked with ankle behind knee, body angled for compression, hand controlling head or trapped arm
Opponent’s position: Head and one arm trapped in triangle, other arm free to tap, torso defensive, limited mobility from lock
Key pressure points: Both carotid arteries compressed between your thigh/shin and their own shoulder
Leverage creation: Leg squeeze + hip angle + head pull = bilateral carotid compression

Setup Requirements

Conditions that must be satisfied before attempting:

Position Establishment: Mount (S001) established with stable, dominant control
Control Points:
- Mount maintained throughout initial setup
- One opponent arm trapped across centerline
- Other arm excluded from triangle
- Head control with hand
- Balance maintained during transition
Angle Creation:
- High mount or s-mount position achieved
- Body angled for leg swing
- Space created for leg positioning
- Shoulder-to-hip line angle post-lock
Grip Acquisition:
- Trapped arm controlled (wrist or elbow)
- Head controlled with pulling hand
- Grips maintained during transition
- Control never fully released
Space Elimination:
- Triangle locked (ankle behind knee)
- No space between leg and neck
- Trapped arm tight against their neck
- Hip angle squeezing space closed
Timing Recognition:
- Opponent reaches across centerline
- Defensive frame creates opening
- Arm positioning error occurs
- Balance opportunity exists
Safety Verification:
- Partner aware of tap signals
- One limb free to tap clearly
- Verbal tap agreed upon
- Transition practiced slowly first

Position Quality Required: Mount must be stable enough to allow transition without losing top position or control during setup phase.

Execution Steps

SAFETY REMINDER: Apply pressure SLOWLY over 3-5 seconds. Watch for tap signals continuously. Monitor partner’s consciousness throughout.

Step-by-Step Execution

Arm Isolation (Setup Phase)
- From mount, wait for opponent to reach or frame with one arm
- Secure their wrist/forearm with your hand
- Pull arm across your centerline
- Safety check: Other arm free to tap
High Mount Transition (Position Phase)
- Walk knees high toward their armpits
- Maintain balance and pressure
- Control head with free hand
- Partner check: Confirm they can tap with free hand
Leg Positioning (Entry Phase)
- Transition toward s-mount on side of trapped arm
- Swing near-side leg across back of neck
- Maintain balance with other leg posted
- Speed: CONTROLLED, not rushed
- Watch for: Balance loss or premature triangle attempt
Triangle Lock (Locking Phase)
- Bring far leg up underneath
- Hook ankle behind near-leg knee
- Lock triangle configuration
- Ensure trapped arm is inside, other arm outside
- Monitor: Partner’s color and breathing
Angle Creation (Adjustment Phase)
- Fall to side or sit back while maintaining lock
- Create 45-degree shoulder-to-hip angle
- Pull head down toward hip
- Squeeze knees together progressively
- Maintain: Triangle lock integrity
Progressive Pressure (Execution Phase)
- Squeeze knees incrementally over 3-5 seconds
- Pull head down with hands
- Ensure trapped arm against their neck
- Monitor: Face color, consciousness, tap signals
- Speed: SLOW progressive increase
Submission Recognition & Release (Finish/Safety Phase)
- FEEL FOR TAP: Hand, foot, or verbal signal
- RELEASE IMMEDIATELY:
  - Stop squeezing legs
  - Release head pull
  - Unhook ankle, open triangle
  - Allow blood flow restoration
- Post-submission: Monitor 10-15 seconds, ask “you good?”
- Watch for: Consciousness, color return, normal breathing

Total Execution Time in Training: Minimum 3-5 seconds from lock to tap. Transition should be controlled and methodical.

Anatomical Targeting & Injury Awareness

Primary Target

Anatomical Structure: Bilateral carotid arteries (both sides of neck)
Pressure Direction: Inward compression from legs, aided by trapped arm acting as wedge
Physiological Response: Reduced blood flow → lightheadedness → loss of consciousness (3-8 seconds)

Secondary Effects

Windpipe Pressure: Some air restriction if angle not optimal
Cervical Spine: Stress during transition if head pulled incorrectly
Jaw Pressure: Potential TMJ stress from head positioning

INJURY RISKS & PREVENTION

Potential Injuries:

Loss of Consciousness: If held 3-8 seconds after full pressure. Prevention: RELEASE immediately upon tap, never hold after tap.
Neck Strain: Transition can stress cervical muscles. Prevention: Smooth transition, proper head control.
Cervical Stress: Sharp angles during setup. Prevention: Gradual transition, avoid jerking head.

Prevention Measures:

Apply pressure SLOWLY (3-5 seconds minimum)
Never explosive squeeze
Watch partner’s face/color continuously
Release immediately upon ANY tap
Monitor consciousness post-release

Warning Signs to Stop:

Partner goes limp
Color changes (red/purple face)
Eyes close or roll back
Gurgling or unusual sounds
Body goes slack

Opponent Defense Patterns

Common Escape Attempts

Early Defense (Setup phase - mount still established)

Mount Escape Before Setup → Guard Recovery (Success Rate: 60%, Window: 2-4 seconds)
Defender action: Escape mount before arm isolated, bridge and shrimp, prevent high mount

Arm Preservation (High mount achieved, arm not yet isolated)

Keep Arms Tight → Mount Defense (Success Rate: 50%, Window: 2-3 seconds)
Defender action: Keep elbows tight, don’t reach across centerline, defensive posture

Transition Disruption (Triangle forming, not locked)

Stack or Posture → Escape or Recovery (Success Rate: 35%, Window: 1-2 seconds)
Defender action: Disrupt balance during leg positioning, create space, pull head out

Inevitable Submission (Triangle locked tight, angle set)

Tap Out → Terminal State (Success Rate: 0% escape)
Defender must: TAP IMMEDIATELY - consciousness at risk
Attacker must: RELEASE IMMEDIATELY

Defensive Decision Logic

If [mount established] AND [setup beginning]:
- Execute [[Mount Escape]] (Success Rate: 60%)
- Window: 2-4 seconds before arm trapped

Else if [high mount] but [arm not isolated]:
- Execute [[Keep Arms Tight]] (Success Rate: 50%)
- Action: Defensive posture, protect arms

Else if [triangle forming] but [not locked]:
- Execute [[Transition Disruption]] (Success Rate: 35%)
- Window: 1-2 seconds, high urgency

Else if [triangle locked tight]:
- Execute [[Tap Out]] (Immediate)
- CRITICAL: Consciousness at risk

Training Progressions & Safety Protocols

Phase 1: Technical Understanding (Week 1-2)

Study mount control and triangle mechanics separately
Watch instructional content
Understand blood choke mechanics
Learn tap signals specific to chokes
No live application

Phase 2: Static Practice (Week 3-4)

Practice transition slowly with willing partner
Partner provides ZERO resistance
Focus: Balance and triangle lock only
No pressure applied
Instructor supervision required

Phase 3: Progressive Resistance (Week 5-8)

Partner provides mild resistance to setup
Practice reading defensive reactions
Speed: SLOW (7-10 seconds per rep)
Partner taps at 30-40% pressure
Emphasize control over completion

Phase 4: Timing Development (Week 9-12)

Partner provides realistic resistance
Recognize opportunities from mount
Speed: MODERATE (5-7 seconds)
Partner taps at 50-60% pressure
Chain with other mount attacks

Phase 5: Safety Integration (Week 13+)

Light rolling integration
Proper tap recognition ingrained
Speed: Controlled in training (3-5 seconds)
Competition speed ONLY in competition

Phase 6: Live Application (Ongoing)

Sparring integration with safety emphasis
Apply at appropriate speed for context
Never sacrifice partner safety

CRITICAL: Master mount control before attempting this submission. Poor balance during transition creates injury risk.

Expert Insights

John Danaher Perspective

“The triangle from mount requires exceptional balance and timing - it’s a testament to control when executed properly. The key is recognizing the correct moment when the opponent’s arm crosses your centerline. Many practitioners attempt this too early, losing mount position unnecessarily. The mechanical principle is identical to the triangle from guard - create the shoulder-to-hip angle that makes their own shoulder compress their carotid. However, from mount you must maintain positional dominance throughout the transition. Practice the transition slowly until balance is automatic. The submission finish is straightforward if the lock is proper. Release immediately upon tap - consciousness is affected rapidly by blood chokes.”

Key Technical Detail: Balance during transition determines success Safety Emphasis: Master transition before attempting at speed

Gordon Ryan Perspective

“I use the triangle from mount primarily when opponents make specific defensive errors - reaching across or framing incorrectly. In competition, if I get the triangle locked from mount, it’s done in 2-3 seconds. In training, I take 5-7 seconds and often don’t finish at all - I get the lock, let them feel it, and release. The setup requires excellent mount control. If your mount isn’t solid, don’t attempt this - you’ll just lose position. When it’s there, commit to the transition confidently but controlled. Your training partners need to trust that you won’t put them to sleep unnecessarily.”

Competition Application: Fast finish from proper setup Training Modification: Control and feel emphasized over completion

Eddie Bravo Perspective

“The mounted triangle fits beautifully into systematic attack chains from mount. If they defend the armbar by pulling their arm back, the triangle might be there. If they defend the triangle, the armbar is back. It’s about creating dilemmas from dominant positions. In the 10th Planet system, we drill the mount-to-s-mount transition extensively because it’s fundamental to several high-percentage attacks. The triangle from mount is technical - requires mat time to develop the balance and feel. But safety is paramount. Blood chokes work fast, and mount transitions can stress the neck. Apply with control, release immediately on tap, check your partner afterward.”

Innovation Focus: Triangle as part of mount attack system Safety Non-Negotiable: Controlled application and immediate tap response

Common Errors

Technical Errors

Error 1: Premature Transition

Mistake: Attempting triangle before arm fully isolated
Why it fails: Lose mount position, opponent escapes
Correction: Secure arm control completely before transitioning
Safety impact: Awkward transitions can strain neck

Error 2: Poor Balance

Mistake: Losing balance during leg positioning
Why it fails: Fall off, lose position and submission
Correction: Strong base, controlled movement
Safety impact: Falling can injure both practitioners

Error 3: Incorrect Angle

Mistake: Not creating proper shoulder-to-hip angle
Why it fails: Reduced pressure, ineffective choke
Correction: Fall to side creating 45-degree angle
Safety impact: Forcing technique without angle increases neck stress

Error 4: Loose Triangle

Mistake: Ankle not locked tight behind knee
Why it fails: Space allows escape
Correction: Tight ankle lock, squeeze knees together
Safety impact: Loose lock tempts explosive tightening

SAFETY ERRORS (CRITICAL)

DANGER: Holding After Tap

Mistake: Continuing pressure after tap signal
Why dangerous: Unconsciousness occurs rapidly
Injury risk: CONSCIOUSNESS LOSS
Correction: Release immediately upon any tap
Can cause unconsciousness in seconds

DANGER: Explosive Squeeze

Mistake: Sudden maximum pressure
Why dangerous: No time for partner to tap
Injury risk: Unconsciousness without warning
Correction: Progressive pressure over 3-5 seconds
Consciousness can be lost before tap

DANGER: Jerking Head During Transition

Mistake: Pulling head sharply during setup
Why dangerous: Cervical spine stress
Injury risk: Neck strain, whiplash effect
Correction: Smooth controlled transition
Neck injuries have long-term consequences

DANGER: Trapping Both Arms

Mistake: Positioning that prevents partner from tapping
Why dangerous: Cannot signal submission
Injury risk: Unconsciousness without tap ability
Correction: Always ensure one limb free to tap
Verbal tap must be established beforehand

Variations & Setups

Primary Setup (Most Common)

From Mount:

Opponent reaches or frames across centerline
Secure wrist, control head
Transition through high mount/s-mount
Lock triangle, create angle
Progressive squeeze 3-5 seconds
Success rate: Beginner 35%, Intermediate 55%, Advanced 75%

Alternative Setup 1: From S-Mount

From S-Mount Top:

Already angled for triangle entry
Isolate near-side arm
Triangle entry more direct
Best for: Practitioners comfortable with s-mount

Alternative Setup 2: From Failed Armbar

After failed Armbar from Mount:

Opponent defends armbar
Arm already isolated
Transition directly to triangle
Best for: Chain attack sequences

Chain Combinations