Basic BJJ Side Control White Belt | Week 2
Table of Contents
Why Side Control Feels So Heavy — And How to Handle It
Being stuck in bottom side control can feel hopeless — especially for new white belts. But this week, we’ll show you how to build a solid defensive shell, manage pressure, and begin to understand the art of survival-based escape. Instead of focusing on a single technique, you’ll develop a system of frames, directional control, and mindset that allows you to wait out your opponent and counter when the time is right.
This Week’s Focus: Side Control Survival
By the end of Week 2, you’ll understand:
How to stay calm and safe under pressure
Where to place your hands, elbows, knees, and feet
How to frame correctly and avoid the mount
Why defending the back early is better than recovering late
How to “read your compass” and create directional escapes
How to connect to safe positional hubs
Defensive Concepts & Drills
Framing Details (Elbows, Hands, Knees, Feet)
Pressure Management
Guard Retention Drills (Solo)
Partner Drills
Weekly Checklist
By the end of this week, aim to:
Identify key frames to stop mount/back threats
Complete 3 solo guard retention drills
Perform shrimp escape with a partner (10x each side)
Stay on your side while escaping side control
Use your compass to navigate toward better positions
Reflect & Review
What specific pressure was most uncomfortable?
Did you stay on your side consistently?
Which escape direction felt most natural this week?
What will you try differently next week?
Related Blog Posts for White Belts
Why Can’t I Escape Side Control?
Solo Drills for Guard Retention at Home
Top 3 Mistakes Beginners Make in Side Control
Next Step
✅ Want feedback on your top control? Submit your roll here →
🔁 Begin Week 3: Top Mount →