Ground and pound as a martial arts technique may seem simple at first. But deeper examination reveals that it’s more strategic and complex than it seems. As you continue your training, learn how to perform the technique effectively and efficiently in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight situations.

Ground & Pound in MMA: What is it?

Ground and pound is a technique used by MMA fighters to knock out opponents quickly. It’s based on the military principle of “ground and pound”, wherein you move directly toward the enemy and take him down, flowing into a position of dominance.

This technique is considered a ground fighting technique because you need to be on top of your opponent to complete it. Ironically, the most effective ground and pound is usually performed in the standing position, where you can quickly adjust your position.

The Different Styles of Ground & Pound

Depending on the circumstances, there are different ways to do the ground and pound technique. Some of them are:

Standing Position: You can do a standing position when your opponent is standing. You can simultaneously pull him down and place your knee on his grounded side. When you are standing, and on top of your opponent, you can use your hands and knees to hit the opponent’s vital areas.
Sitting Position: Your opponent’s back is against the floor when you are in a sitting position. Normally, you would use your elbows, hands, knees, and legs to strike your opponent’s vital areas.
Kneeling Position: Your opponent’s back is resting against the floor while his head is leaning to one side, and his legs are resting on your upper thigh. You can use your hands and arms to deliver punches, elbows, knees, and kicks on the opponent’s vital areas.
Guard Position: You would use your arms and legs to hold your opponent’s body down in the guard position. You might extend your arms to protect your face when you are in the guard position.
Gun-Sling Position: Your opponent is lying face down on the floor. You would use your arms to grab your opponent’s body, and use your legs and knees to strike your opponent’s vital areas.
Modified Gun-Sling Position: You would use your arms to grab your opponent’s body while your legs are positioned on his back.

How to Defend Against the Ground and Pound?

To effectively defend against the ground and pound technique, you need to adopt the following defensive techniques:

Elbow and Knee Blocks: You should block your opponent using your elbows and knees, to protect your vital areas.
Cover Up: By covering up your face and body, you can protect yourself against your opponent’s punches, elbows, knees, and kicks.
Punch and Kick Counter Attacks: Give a counter punch to your opponent’s head, body, or legs. You can also deliver a swift kick to his head and body.
Sweep Move: By moving your body to the side, you can sweep your opponent onto the ground.

The most important thing to remember is that the ground and pound technique should be done as a last resort. That means you have to avoid being taken down first by defending yourself against your opponent’s strikes.