Ah, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the gentle art. The chess game of martial arts. A world where strength and size can be neutralized by skill, technique, and cunning. If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for ways to improve your BJJ game or just want to get a glimpse of the vast and intricate world of submissions. Well, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of BJJ submissions, dissecting the most effective and high-percentage moves that can make or break a match. So, without further ado, let’s get started on this journey to master the BJJ submissions list.
Armbar: The Classic Submission
Let’s start with a classic – the armbar. This submission is a staple in BJJ and has been used to tap out countless opponents both in training and competition. The armbar involves isolating an opponent’s arm, controlling their wrist, and using your hips to create pressure on their elbow joint, forcing them to tap.
Imagine you’re rolling with your training partner, and they make the mistake of extending their arm while in your guard. You quickly snatch their arm, secure their wrist, and swing your leg over their head, locking in the armbar. It’s a beautiful feeling when you hit it just right, and your partner has no choice but to tap out.
Triangle Choke: The Leg Strangle
Next up on our BJJ submissions list is the triangle choke. This technique is a true testament to the power of using your legs in grappling. The triangle choke is executed by trapping your opponent’s head and one arm between your legs, while using your thigh to apply pressure to their carotid artery, cutting off blood flow to the brain.
Picture this: you’re playing guard, and your opponent postures up, giving you the space you need to throw your leg over their shoulder. You quickly adjust your position, lock your legs, and squeeze. Just like that, you’ve got them trapped in a vice-like triangle choke.
Rear Naked Choke: The King of Chokes
No BJJ submissions list would be complete without the rear naked choke. This submission is often considered the king of chokes, and for a good reason. When executed correctly, it’s incredibly difficult to escape and can render an opponent unconscious in a matter of seconds.
Imagine you’ve managed to take your opponent’s back, and they’re desperately trying to defend against your onslaught. You patiently work your arm under their chin, secure your grip, and apply pressure. The feeling of victory is almost palpable as they tap, succumbing to the power of the rear naked choke.
Kimura: The Shoulder Destroyer
The Kimura is a potent submission that targets the shoulder joint, and it’s a favorite among many BJJ practitioners. Named after the legendary judoka, Masahiko Kimura, this technique involves isolating your opponent’s arm, gripping their wrist, and applying torque to their shoulder.
Envision this scenario: you’re on top of your opponent in side control, and they make the error of reaching across your body. You immediately grab their wrist, secure the Kimura grip, and crank it. Your opponent has no choice but to tap, or they risk serious damage to their shoulder.
Guillotine Choke: The Headhunter’s Prize
The guillotine choke is another iconic submission in the world of BJJ. This front headlock choke is executed by encircling your opponent’s neck with your arm and applying pressure with your forearm, cutting off their air supply.
Picture yourself sprawled out, defending against a takedown attempt. Your opponent’s head is in perfect position for you to slip your arm under their chin. You quickly secure your grip, sit back, and apply the squeeze. Your opponent, gasping for air, has no choice but to tap out to your perfectly executed guillotine choke.
Omoplata: The Elegant Shoulder Lock
The Omoplata is an elegant shoulder lock that showcases the creative and technical aspects of BJJ. This submission involves using your legs to isolate your opponent’s arm and applying pressure to their shoulder by rotating your hips.
Imagine you’re playing open guard, and your opponent carelessly extends their arm. You see the opportunity, swing your leg over their shoulder, and lock your feet. As you roll forward and apply pressure with your hips, your opponent quickly taps, unable to withstand the force on their shoulder.
Ezekiel Choke: The Sneaky Sleeper
The Ezekiel choke is a sneaky, yet effective, submission that can catch your opponent off guard. This choke is performed by wrapping your arm around your opponent’s neck and using your own sleeve or wrist to apply pressure to their throat.
Picture this: you’re in mount position, and your opponent is doing everything they can to protect their neck. You subtly sneak your arm around their neck, grab your own sleeve or wrist, and start applying pressure. The choke sets in, and your opponent frantically taps, completely caught off guard by your stealthy Ezekiel choke.
Bow and Arrow Choke: The Perfect Finish
Last but not least on our BJJ submissions list is the bow and arrow choke. This visually impressive choke is executed from the back position, using one arm to apply pressure to your opponent’s neck while your legs control their body.
Envision this: you have your opponent’s back, and they’re doing everything possible to defend against the rear naked choke. You spot an opening, feed your lapel to your hand, and secure the grip. As you extend your leg and pull back on the lapel, your opponent taps out, unable to escape the bow and arrow choke.
See: Best Bjj Dummy
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about BJJ Submissions
What is a BJJ submission?
A BJJ submission is a technique that forces your opponent to “tap out” (surrender) or risk injury. Submissions involve applying pressure on joints or constricting the blood flow or airway of an opponent, causing them to submit to avoid unconsciousness or potential damage to their body.
How long does it take to learn BJJ submissions?
The time it takes to learn BJJ submissions varies depending on the individual’s dedication, athleticism, and training frequency. Generally, it takes a few months to become proficient in basic submissions, but mastery of advanced techniques can take years of consistent practice.
Are BJJ submissions dangerous?
While BJJ submissions can be dangerous if applied with excessive force or without proper technique, the risk of injury can be minimized through proper training and supervision. Practitioners are encouraged to tap out early and respect their opponents’ submissions to ensure a safe training environment.
Can I practice BJJ submissions alone?
While it’s possible to practice some BJJ submissions using a grappling dummy or visualizing the techniques, having a training partner is essential for understanding the nuances and effectiveness of each submission. Training with a partner allows you to feel the resistance, make adjustments, and develop a deeper understanding of the techniques.
Which BJJ submissions should I focus on as a beginner?
As a beginner, it’s essential to focus on fundamental submissions that can be applied from various positions. These include the armbar, triangle choke, rear naked choke, guillotine choke, and kimura. Mastering these basic submissions will serve as a foundation for learning more advanced techniques.
Conclusion: The Path to BJJ Mastery
Mastering the BJJ submissions list is no easy task, but with dedication, persistence, and a passion for the gentle art, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable grappler. Remember, technique always trumps brute strength, so focus on drilling these submissions and refining your skills. With time, you’ll be tapping out opponents left and right, showcasing the true power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.