5 Techniques to Take Your BJJ Skills to the Next Level
For all of our fellow Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu trainees, we have combined a list of techniques to take you to the next level of your BBJ game once you perfect them. These techniques are great to learn for sparring and defense. Included below are quick and clear summaries of each with pro tips. We encourage you to use these tips in your practice and training to perfect them.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned grappler, mastering these moves will give you a significant edge. Let's break them down with instructions for perfecting each one!
1. The Armbar from Guard
The armbar from the guard is one of the most fundamental and effective submissions in BJJ. It’s a must-know move for any serious practitioner.
How to Perfect It:
Positioning: Ensure your hips are mobile and close to your opponent's shoulder. This helps in maintaining control.
Control: Secure your opponent's arm by holding it tightly to your chest.
Angle: Swing your legs over your opponent’s face and chest, creating a perpendicular angle to their body.
Leverage: Use your hips to apply pressure and extend your opponent's arm, forcing the submission.
Pro Tip: Drill the armbar with a partner slowly and increase speed as you become more comfortable. Focus on hip movement and maintaining tight control of the arm throughout the technique.
2. The Kimura from Guard
The Kimura is a powerful shoulder lock that can be applied from various positions but is particularly effective from guard.
How to Perfect It:
Grip: Secure a figure-four grip on your opponent's arm.
Angle: Pivot your body to get a perpendicular angle to your opponent.
Control: Use your legs to control your opponent's body and prevent them from escaping.
Pressure: Apply pressure by lifting their elbow and twisting their arm behind their back.
Pro Tip: Maintain tight control of your opponent's wrist and keep your elbows close to your body. This provides better leverage and prevents your opponent from escaping.
3. The Triangle Choke
The triangle choke is a versatile submission that can end a match quickly if executed correctly.
How to Perfect It:
Setup: Use your legs to trap your opponent’s neck and one arm.
Adjustment: Adjust your hips to create a tighter choke by pulling your shin across the back of their neck.
Control: Grab your shin to secure the triangle and prevent your opponent from escaping.
Finish: Squeeze your knees together and pull down on their head to apply the choke.
Pro Tip: Focus on your hip movement and the angle of your legs. A slight adjustment can significantly increase the pressure and effectiveness of the choke.
4. The Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke (RNC) is a classic submission that is both powerful and reliable.
How to Perfect It:
Position: Secure your opponent’s back and maintain a firm seatbelt grip.
Grip: Slide one arm under your opponent’s chin and lock your hands together.
Pressure: Squeeze your arms together while pulling your opponent's head towards your chest.
Angle: Keep your head close to theirs to prevent them from escaping.
Pro Tip: Practice the RNC slowly and focus on maintaining control of your opponent's body. A well-executed RNC should feel like you're squeezing a watermelon, not just applying pressure with your arms.
5. The Sweep from Butterfly Guard
Sweeps are crucial for transitioning from a defensive position to a dominant one. The butterfly guard sweep is particularly effective for its versatility and control.
How to Perfect It:
Hooks: Use your feet to hook your opponent’s legs while maintaining a seated position.
Control: Grab your opponent's collar and sleeve for better control.
Leverage: Lean to one side and use your hooks to lift your opponent’s legs.
Sweep: Use your arms and legs in unison to topple your opponent and secure a dominant position.
Pro Tip: Combine the butterfly sweep with other guard techniques to keep your opponent guessing. Practice shifting your weight and using your hooks effectively to maximize leverage.
Practice Always Makes Perfect
Did you know that BJJ champions typically train for 5-6 hours a day? One thing is true for every top competitor: consistent drilling and sparring are key to success. Legends like Marcelo Garcia and Roger Gracie emphasize the importance of mastering basics and drilling them regularly to stay sharp and effective on the mats.
Ready to Elevate Your Game?
Mastering these five techniques will undoubtedly take your BJJ skills to the next level. At Ground Control Owings Mills (GCOM), we offer top-notch training with experienced instructors dedicated to helping you reach your full potential. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your skills, our supportive community is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule your first class and join our vibrant BJJ family. Let's get rolling!