This is one of the first sequences I learned at Minnesota Martial Arts Academy. As a matter of fact, Greg Nelson taught this sequence on my very first day of class. I didn’t have a clue what I was getting into.

Guard

1. Pass guard on knees or standing
2. Remember to avoid arm bar by posturing up and away
3. Pin opponent’s leg with knee

Side Control

1. Slide your arm under opponent’s head and grab kimono at shoulder
2. Avoid sweep by cranking opponent’s head so they’re looking away from you
3. Scissor hips under opponent’s near arm and reverse hips so his arm is pinched between your thigh and elbow

Mount

1. Knee high on stomach
2. Swing foot up and over being careful to avoid getting leg trapped in half guard
3. Secure mount and stabilize with hands on mat

Arm Bar

1. Kickstand up so your knee is in your opponent’s arm pit
2. Swing other leg out and in so calf is under opponent’s other shoulder
3. Secure arm with two-on-one grip and lean toward opponent’s feet so leg swings easily over opponent’s head
4. Engage hips to tighten arm bar