--- title: "Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico | Phone: +1 505-515-4341" url: https://gbnewmexico.com/adult-bjj-fundamentals-the-most-important-positions-to-learn-first-at-gracie-barra-new-mexico-phone-1-505-515-4341/ author: gbadmin02 date: 2026-02-09T13:36:47-08:00 categories: [Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico | Phone: +1 505-515-4341] tags: [Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico | Phone: +1 505-515-4341, advanced Jiu-Jitsu, beginner Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ for beginners, BJJ for teens, BJJ journey, BJJ self-defense techniques, BJJ training academy, black belt journey, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes, discipline in martial arts, Don Ortega, empowering through Jiu-Jitsu, fitness through Jiu-Jitsu, fitness training, GB1 program, GB2 program, GB3 program, GBK program, Gracie Barra, Gracie Barra community, Gracie Barra family, Gracie Barra instructors, Gracie Barra legacy, Gracie Barra New Mexico, Gracie Barra New Mexico team, healthy lifestyle, Jiu-Jitsu classes for everyone, Jiu-Jitsu classes in New Mexico, Jiu-Jitsu community, Jiu-Jitsu for adults, Jiu-Jitsu for all levels, Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone, Jiu-Jitsu for kids, Jiu-Jitsu in Albuquerque, Jiu-Jitsu programs, kickboxing, leadership through Jiu-Jitsu, learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, learning Jiu-Jitsu for life, martial arts academy, martial arts fitness, martial arts training, mental toughness, personal growth, physical conditioning, private training, respect in Jiu-Jitsu, Roberto Tussa Alencar, self-confidence, self-defense, self-defense skills, sparring sessions, sports development, world champion instructors] --- # Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico | Phone: +1 505-515-4341 The foundation of [***Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) is built upon a specific hierarchy of ground positions. For adult practitioners beginning their training at [***Gracie Barra New Mexico***](https://gbnewmexico.com/), understanding this structure is the primary objective of the introductory curriculum. Mastery of these positions ensures that a practitioner can manage energy expenditure while maintaining control over an opponent. ### ***The guard: The defensive foundation!*** The guard is the defining [***position of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu***](https://gbnewmexico.com/). It occurs when a practitioner is on their back but uses their legs to track, distance, and control the opponent. In the fundamentals program, the focus remains on the Closed Guard, where the legs are locked around the opponent’s waist. This position serves as a primary defensive barrier, preventing the opponent from advancing to more dominant pins while providing opportunities for sweeps or submissions. ### ***Side control: Establishing pressure!*** Side control is a dominant pinning position where the practitioner is chest-to-chest with their opponent, positioned perpendicularly. At [***Gracie Barra New Mexico***](https://gbnewmexico.com/), students learn to use their weight and limb placement to immobilize the person underneath. Key technical requirements include: ***Head and arm control***: Utilizing a “cross-face” to dictate the direction of the opponent’s spine. ***Weight distribution***: Shifting the center of gravity to eliminate gaps that the opponent might use to escape. ***Stability***: Maintaining a wide base with the knees to prevent being rolled or pushed away. [***Gracie Barra New Mexico: Our team will help you every step of the way!***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) [![Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico | Phone: +1 505-515-4341](https://gbnewmexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Adult-BJJ-fundamentals-The-most-important-positions-to-learn-first-at-Gracie-Barra-New-Mexico-Phone-1-505-515-4341-1.jpg)](https://gbnewmexico.com/)[***Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico | Phone: +1 505-515-4341***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) ### ### ***The mount: Maximum control!*** The mount is a superior position where a practitioner sits astride the opponent’s torso. It offers the highest level of [***mechanical advantage***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) because it allows the top practitioner to use gravity and full hip mobility. Training at our Albuquerque facility emphasizes the “High Mount” and “Low Mount” variations. The objective is to maintain a heavy base that forces the opponent to carry the practitioner’s total body weight, leading to [**physical**](https://gbnewmexico.com/development-of-childrens-physical-abilities-in-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-strengthening-bodies-and-minds-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-classes-for-kids-near-me/) exhaustion and defensive openings. ### ***Back control: The ultimate objective!*** In the hierarchy of [***Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) positions, back control is considered the most advantageous. By securing the “seatbelt” grip (one arm over the shoulder, one under the armpit) and utilizing “hooks” (feet placed inside the opponent’s thighs), the practitioner stays behind the opponent’s line of sight. This position removes the opponent’s ability to use their primary limbs effectively for defense. Learning to maintain this attachment during an opponent’s movement is a critical skill developed in the adult fundamentals classes. ### ***Positional transitions and hierarchy!*** The progression between these positions follows a logical sequence. A practitioner typically seeks to pass the guard to reach side control, advance from side control to the mount, and ultimately take the back. Each step represents an increase in control and a decrease in the opponent’s defensive options. Consistent attendance at [***Gracie Barra New Mexico***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) allows students to internalize these movements through repetitive drilling and technical study. ***Gracie Barra [**New Mexico**](https://gbnewmexico.com/gracie-barra-new-mexico-premier-jiu-jitsu-academy-for-all-levels/): ***[***Join our community today and begin your martial arts journey***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/)***!*** [***Gracie Barra New Mexico*****: brotherhood, integrity, development!**](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) *** *** [![The Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in New Mexico, NM!](https://gbnewmexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/The-Best-Brazilian-Jiu-Jitsu-in-New-Mexico-NM.jpg)](https://gbnewmexico.com/)[***The Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in New Mexico, NM!***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) ## ***Gracie Barra New Mexico: a hub of excellence in Brazilian jiu-jitsu!*** [***Gracie Barra New Mexico***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) is a hub of excellence in Brazilian [**Jiu-Jitsu**](https://gbnewmexico.com/physical-strengthening-through-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-achieve-your-physical-and-mental-potential-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-self-defense-classes/), offering a wide range of programs for all ages and skill levels. With the philosophy of “[**Jiu-Jitsu**](https://gbnewmexico.com/physical-strengthening-through-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-achieve-your-physical-and-mental-potential-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-self-defense-classes/) for Everyone,” the academy provides a welcoming community focused on the [**physical**](https://gbnewmexico.com/development-of-childrens-physical-abilities-in-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-strengthening-bodies-and-minds-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-classes-for-kids-near-me/), mental, and social development of its students. [***Gracie Barra New Mexico’s programs***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) are designed to meet the needs of both beginners and experienced practitioners, offering a complete journey in [**Jiu-Jitsu**](https://gbnewmexico.com/physical-strengthening-through-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-achieve-your-physical-and-mental-potential-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-self-defense-classes/). The GBK program (for children and teens) is perfect for teaching discipline, respect, and [**self**](https://gbnewmexico.com/discover-the-numerous-benefits-of-jiu-jitsu-for-adults-a-journey-of-physical-mental-and-spiritual-transformation-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-near-me-classes-no-gi/)-confidence in a fun and safe environment, while the adult program provides a comprehensive approach, focusing on techniques and [**physical**](https://gbnewmexico.com/development-of-childrens-physical-abilities-in-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-strengthening-bodies-and-minds-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-classes-for-kids-near-me/) conditioning. GB1 is ideal for beginners, offering a solid learning foundation, while GB2 focuses on more advanced techniques and sparring sessions, preparing students for more complex challenges. For advanced practitioners, GB3 offers high-level training, aiming for mastery and leadership development within the [***Gracie Barra community***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/), culminating in the journey to the black belt. [***Gracie Barra New Mexico: Our team will help you every step of the way!***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) In addition to traditional [**BJJ**](https://gbnewmexico.com/discover-the-fascinating-world-of-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-bjj-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-in-albuquerque-classes-for-beginners/), [***Gracie Barra New Mexico***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) also offers [**self**](https://gbnewmexico.com/discover-the-numerous-benefits-of-jiu-jitsu-for-adults-a-journey-of-physical-mental-and-spiritual-transformation-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-near-me-classes-no-gi/)-defense programs, private training, and kickboxing for those looking to improve their fitness, learn combat techniques, and gain confidence to protect themselves in real-life situations. With highly qualified instructors, such as Roberto “Tussa” Alencar and Don Ortega, world champions and Jiu-Jitsu icons, [***Gracie Barra New Mexico***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) ensures top-notch teaching with a focus on personal growth, community spirit, and the pursuit of excellence. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, [**self**](https://gbnewmexico.com/discover-the-numerous-benefits-of-jiu-jitsu-for-adults-a-journey-of-physical-mental-and-spiritual-transformation-in-gracie-barra-new-mexico-bjj-near-me-classes-no-gi/)-defense skills, or take your Jiu-Jitsu to the next level, Gracie Barra [**New Mexico**](https://gbnewmexico.com/gracie-barra-new-mexico-premier-jiu-jitsu-academy-for-all-levels/) is the ideal place to start your journey. [***Schedule your free class today***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) and join our community, where Jiu-Jitsu goes beyond the mats, transforming lives and fostering personal development for all of our students. ***Gracie Barra [**New Mexico**](https://gbnewmexico.com/gracie-barra-new-mexico-premier-jiu-jitsu-academy-for-all-levels/): ***[***Join our community today and begin your martial arts journey***](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/)***!*** [***Gracie Barra New Mexico*****: brotherhood, integrity, development!**](https://gbnewmexico.com/contact/) [![Gracie Barra New Mexico!](https://gbnewmexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Gracie-Barra-New-Mexico.jpg)](https://gbnewmexico.com/)[***Gracie Barra New Mexico!***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) # ***Adult BJJ fundamentals: The most important positions to learn first at Gracie Barra New Mexico ******| Phone: +1 505-515-4341*** ** ** [![Getting started at Gracie Barra is easy, our team will help you every step of the way. Schedule a free class today!](https://gbnewmexico.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Getting-started-at-Gracie-Barra-is-easy-our-team-will-help-you-every-step-of-the-way.-Schedule-a-free-class-today.jpg)](https://gbnewmexico.com/)[***Getting started at Gracie Barra is easy, our team will help you every step of the way. Schedule a free class today!***](https://gbnewmexico.com/) - [Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu New Mexico in Albuquerque](https://gbnewmexico.com/) ### Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu New Mexico in Albuquerque 1504 San Pedro Dr NE Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110 United States (US)Phone: [(505) 515-4341](tel:5055154341) Secondary phone: [+1 505 515 4341](tel:+15055154341) Email: [info@gbnewmexico.com](mailto:info@gbnewmexico.com) | Monday | 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM | | --- | --- | | Tuesday | 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM | | Wednesday | 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM | | Thursday | 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM | | Friday | 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM | | Saturday | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | | Sunday | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM |