Which of the following is a ground fighting position?

• A. Mount
• B. Guard
• C. Side Control
• D. Stand and Base

Answer: (A)

Ground fighting positions are the control setups you use when you’re on the ground to dominate an opponent. Mount is sitting astride the opponent’s chest or torso, with your weight centered over them and your knees pinning their sides. This top position gives the highest level of control over their upper body and severely limits their ability to move or escape, which is why it’s the most recognized ground fighting position in many LEA grappling curricula. From here you can control posture, prevent their movement, and set up striking or additional holds as needed.

Guard is the bottom position, where you’re on your back using your legs and hips to defend and seek sweeps or submissions. Side control is another top ground position, but with a different distribution of weight and angle than mount. Stand and base is a standing stance, not on the ground, so it doesn’t meet the ground-fighting criterion.