How to Control in BJJ — White Belt Fundamentals
Most beginners think “control” means holding someone down with as much force as possible. But real control in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu begins with mastering yourself.
In this module, you’ll learn how to relax under pressure, control your own emotional and physical responses, and develop the ability to set the pace of a roll without brute force.
Whether you’re naturally aggressive or more passive, this module will teach you how to control others by first learning to control yourself.
What You’ll Learn in Module 2
Controlling your opponent is more than holding them down. This 12-week plan helps white belts build positional awareness, apply pressure without wasting energy, and develop calm under fire.
Learning Objectives:
How to relax and breathe under pressure
When to apply pressure — and how much is enough
The art of controlled aggression vs blind resistance
How to stay in dominant positions without stalling
How the best grapplers lead the pace of every roll
Weekly Lessons
Dominant Position | Weeks 13 - 18
Week 13 - Top Side Control
Week 14 - Bottom Side Control
Week 15 - Top Mount
Week 16 - Bottom Mount
Week 17 - Back Attack
Week 18 - Back Defense
Guard | Weeks 19 - 24
Week 19 - Top Closed Guard
Week 20 - Bottom Closed Guard
Week 21 - Top Open Guard
Week 22 - Bottom Open Guard
Week 23 - Top Half Guard
Week 24 - Bottom Half Guard
Why Control Matters for White Belts
You don’t need to be the strongest grappler on the mat — you need to be the one who feels the calmest.
This module teaches you the skills and mindset that separate frantic white belts from future black belts: patience, awareness, and self-mastery.