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An armlock in grappling is a single or double joint lock that hyperextends, hyperflexes or hyperrotates the elbow joint or shoulder joint. An armpit lock can be useful; it will immobilize an opponent and pin them on the ground. An armlock that hyperextends the elbow is known as an armbar, and it includes the traditional armbar (pressing the elbow against the thigh or hips), the shoulder triangle armbar (where a figure-four is locked with the legs), and the shotgun armbar (where the opponent's wrist is placed in the armpit, using the forearm as a fulcrum). An armlock that hyper-rotates the arm is known as an armcoil, and includes the Americana, kimura, and omaplata. Depending on the joint flexibility of a person, armcoils can either hyperrotate only the shoulder joint, only the elbow joint, or both the elbow joint and shoulder joint.

Key Information

Obtaining an armlock requires effective use of full-body leverage in order to initiate and secure a lock on the targeted arm, while preventing the opponent from escaping the lock. Therefore, performing an armlock is less problematic on the ground, from positions such as the mount, side control, or guard. Armlocks are more difficult to perform when both combatants are standing up, though the stand-up variants are a focus in certain systems such as Chin Na.

Armlocks, considered less dangerous techniques in combat sports allowing joint locks, are the most common joint locks used as submission holds. In training, the method of executing an armlock is generally slow and controlled to give the opponent time to submit prior to any infliction of injury. However, in self-defense applications, or when applied improperly or with excessive force, armlocks can cause muscle, tendon and ligament damage, even dislocation, or bone fractures.

Armbar

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Armbar counter on the ground normally is a body roll towards the opponent in order to prevent overextension of the captured elbow bend

The jūji-gatame (十字固め, rendered as "Ude-Hishigi-Juji-Gatame"), which translates to "cross pin" or "cross hold down" also sometimes used interchangeably with the terms armbar, cross armbar or straight armbar, is a Jujutsu, and thus a Judo, technique also widely used in other grappling martial arts such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). The English word "bar" is used here to signify the opponent's extended arm, while the Japanese word "jūji" (十字) refers to the armbar's visual resemblance to the number 10 as written in kanji, 十. The word jūji is also found in "jūjika" (十字架), meaning a cross. In general, the practitioner secures an arm at the wrist of the opponent, trapping it by squeezing the knees together. To initiate the submission one of the legs will be across the chest of the opponent, the second leg's calf will cross face the opponent, with the hips tight into the armpit, with the arm held between the thighs, with the elbow pointing against the thigh or hips. By holding the opponent's wrist to the attacker's chest with the pinky finger on the sternum and the thumb facing up (arm semi-supinated or semi-pronated), the practitioner can easily extend the opponent's arm and hyperextend the opponent's elbow. The attacker can further increase the pressure on the elbow joint by arching his hips against the elbow. Alternatively, gripping the opponent's wrist and forearm, while pushing the hips closer to the opponent's elbow and crossing one leg to make a leg triangle around and press down the opponent's humerus/scapula/biceps and triceps/shoulder, could make the hold more secure while additionally allowing the practitioner to deliver strikes to the opponent's head and neck with the non-crossed leg. This technique is used in various grappling martial arts, including but not limited to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, catch wrestling, judo, jujutsu, Sambo, and shoot wrestling, and is reportedly at least 200 years old.[1]

Flying armbar

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A fighter attempts to escape from an armbar by slamming the opponent to the ground.

The flying armbar or tobi-jūji-gatame (飛び十字固め) is a version of the jūji-gatame that is performed from a stand-up position. Without a gi, it is typically applied when the opponent has a collar tie and arm control. By tightly holding the opponent's neck and arm, the practitioner places one of his shins against the opponent's midsection, and leans up on the opponent; at the same time, the attacker swings the leg on the same side as the opponent's collar tie over the opponent's head, into the typical jūji-gatame position. A slight modification of this maneuver can also be made. Instead of initiating the move by placing the shin against the opponent's midsection, the lower leg can be directed through the space between the arm and trunk of the opponent with the knee generally placed close to the opponent's armpit. The advantage of this modification is that the attacking practitioner's hips more closely engage with the defender's shoulders, making the forthcoming armbar submission easier to accomplish. However, the disadvantage of this modification is that the associated risk of injury is increased due to the attacker's increased height above the ground and near-vertical upside-down angle to the ground. (With a gi, it can be performed without needing to hold the neck.) If improperly performed, this technique can allow the opponent to escape, and gain an advantageous position. The flying armbar is considered to be one of the most visually spectacular joint locks, but it is uncommon because of the associated risk of falling into a poor position.

Helicopter armbar

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The helicopter armbar is a slightly different version of the armbar, a combination of an armbar and tomoe nage, which is also used by wrestling, Judo and BJJ. When the attacker stands in front of the opponent, he grabs both of his arms and falls backwards, causing the opponent to lean forward. Then the attacker puts his feet on the opponent's stomach or hips and lifts him up with his feet. While securing one of the opponents arms, the attacker will drop one foot (Same side as the secured arm). This will cause the opponent to twist and fall, landing with the secured arm extended by the attacker.

Sankaku-gatame

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The sankaku-gatame (三角固め) or triangle armlock is a jūji-gatame performed from the sankaku position. It is normally used when the shime (strangle) is not working. It is an effective competition technique because the opponent's arm became exposed while defending the sankaku-jime and their attention is focused in stopping the strangle.

Shoulder locks

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Standard americana execution
Ude-garami (Americana) being attempted in Judo kata

The "shoulder lock" is a technique used as a method of upper body restraint. It should not be confused with a choke because the lock does not block or interfere with the flow of air or oxygen to the brain. The application is executed by applying pressure between the radial bone and shoulder.

Top shoulder lock

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An illustration of Standing Ude-garami (Americana)
Unorthodox Americana shoulder lock applied using a leg (Ude hishigi hiza gatame)

The top shoulder lock, (Also known as the figure-four armlock, bent armlock, Americana, keylock, V1 armlock, paintbrush, or ude-garami)[2][3] is a grappling keylock technique in which both of the practitioner's arms isolate and cause flexion to the shoulder, elbow, and to a lesser extent the wrist of the opponent. The technique is generally set in motion by the practitioner, using their opposite side hand (i.e. to target the opponents' right hand he uses his own left hand), pinning the opponent's arm to the ground at the wrist, so that the elbow falls at a right angle with the palm facing upwards. Subsequently, the practitioner will thread his opposite hand under the opponent's biceps, reach through and grasp his own wrist. Doing so creates the signature "figure four", from which one name for this technique was derived. This also gives the practitioner a mechanical advantage over the opponent. To finish the submission the practitioner slides the wrist of the opponent toward the lower body, while simultaneously elevating the elbow and forearm, in a motion resembling using a paintbrush, creating opposition to the joints and causing the necessary flexion in the shoulder and elbow to cause significant pain, and damage if the opponent fails to submit. While it is feasible to execute this technique from several different positions, the most commonly utilized is the side mount position. This technique also has numerous variations with their own nomenclature, for instance depending on the rotational direction the arm, the addition of the word "reverse" signifying medial rotation as in reverse keylock or reverse ude-garami, in which case the usage of "keylock" indicates lateral rotation only.

Double wristlock

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Double wristlock (Kimura lock)
Double wristlock bas-relief depicted on the right from the Khmer Empire's 800 year old Bayon temple

Double wristlock/chicken wing (catch wrestling), kimura (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), or reverse keylock are terms used to specify a medial keylock known in judo as gyaku ude-garami (reverse arm entanglement) or simply as ude-garami. The application is similar to the top wristlock, except that it is reversed. It needs some space behind the opponent to be effective, and can be applied from the side control or guard. Contrary to the top wristlock, the opponent's wrist is grabbed with the hand on the same side, and the opposite arm is put behind the opponent's arm, again grabbing the attacker's wrist and forming a figure-four. By controlling the opponent's body and cranking the arm away from the attacker, pressure is put on the shoulder joint, and depending on the angle, also the elbow joint (in some variations the opponent's arm is brought behind their back, resulting in a finishing position resembling that of the hammerlock outlined below).

The name "kimura" started circulating in Brazil after a judoka and a professional wrestler Masahiko Kimura used it to defeat one of the founders of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Hélio Gracie. This variation of the name gained more prominence in MMA after the introduction of UFC, and the role Gracie had in its early history. Although a top wristlock is technically a reverse double wristlock, UFC announcer Bruce Buffer still announces fights won by top wristlock as "by tap-out due to a kimura".[4]

Double wristlock armbar version on the ground

The double wristlock is considered in catch wrestling to be the bread-and-butter part of their style.[5] Professional wrestler Terry Funk credits Lorigo "Tony" Morelli with introducing the hold to wrestling "in the '20s", and expressed light frustration with the term "kimura" gradually replacing "double wristlock". He says Morelli set it up by giving opponents (either in fixed matches or legitimate challenges) his back, while standing, throughout his thirty-year career.[6] A reporter for The Spokesman-Review used the term in June 1925 to describe a submission by Jim "Cyclone Thompson" Corrigan over the deputy sheriff of Worley, Idaho, without elaborating on the mechanics.[7] The Wichita Eagle did likewise that April, for Dick Daviscourt's first fall on strongman Henry "Milo" Steinborn.[8]

The 1928 National Collegiate Athletic Association rulebook noted, "Attention is called to the fact that if the double wristlock is brought up to a twisting hammerlock, it becomes an illegal hold and must be stopped by the Referee...". Elsewhere, it prohibits preventing an opponent from escaping with a bodylock, with low-quality photographic illustration. It also noted concern for the danger of a legally applied double wristlock.[9] Robin Reed had used the move to force pins on his way to an Olympic gold medal in 1924.[10]

Omoplata

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Royce Gracie demonstrating the Omoplata.

The omoplata (referred to in judo as ashi-sankaku-garami, 脚三角緘, "triangular entanglement"[11][12] and in catch wrestling as coil lock) is another bent arm shoulder lock. The locking mechanism is similar to the kimura bent arm lock, but instead of using a figure-four, it is applied using a leg. The omoplata can be applied from the guard, by placing one leg under the opponent's armpit and turning 180 degrees in the direction of that leg, so that the leg moves over the back of the opponent and entangles the opponent's arm. By controlling the opponent's body and pushing the arm perpendicularly away from the opponent's back, pressure can be put on the opponent's shoulder. It is also possible to put pressure on the elbow joint by bending the leg entangling the arm, and twisting it in a specific manner. In order to secure the opponent and prevent him from rolling out of the lock, the inner arm can be thrown over the opponent's waist as a "seatbelt" securing the opponent. Though an effective lock, it is more difficult than other armlocks to successfully apply. The technique called a monoplata is a similar armlock that resembles jūji-gatame or spiderweb position yet has a mechanism like an omoplata.

Tsunetane Oda, a judo groundwork specialist who died in 1955,[13] was shown on video to have demonstrated the technique.[14]

Hammerlock

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A hammerlock is a shoulder lock similar to the double wristlock where the opponent's arm is held bent against their back, and their hand forced upwards towards the neck, thereby applying pressure to the shoulder joint. This version of the rotational armlock has been present in wrestling circles for centuries and its earliest appearance is in a 16th-century German book detailing techniques for European Wrestling.[15]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
An armlock is a joint manipulation technique in grappling martial arts that isolates an opponent's arm and applies leverage to hyperextend or hyperrotate the elbow joint beyond its natural range of motion, compelling submission to prevent injury. Commonly employed in disciplines such as judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ), and sambo, armlocks serve as a primary method for controlling or neutralizing an adversary on the ground or in standing positions. In judo, these techniques are classified as kansetsu-waza (joint techniques) and are restricted to elbow manipulations in modern competition rules, emphasizing precision to immobilize without excessive force. The Kodokan Judo curriculum recognizes nine armlocks, including the straight armlock (ude hishigi ude gatame), where the arm is extended and pressure is applied perpendicular to the elbow, and the armpit armlock (ude hishigi waki gatame), which uses the attacker's armpit as a fulcrum to crush the joint. In BJJ, armlocks are versatile submissions adaptable to various positions like mount, guard, or , with two fundamental categories: straight armlocks, such as the cross-body armbar (juji-gatame), which traps the arm between the legs and drives the hips upward to hyperextend the ; and bent armlocks, like the Americana (or figure-four lock), which bends the arm into an L-shape and torques the and via control. These techniques derive from judo's ude garami (entangled armlock) and have been refined for no-gi and gi , often chaining into other submissions for strategic advantage. The biomechanical stress of armlocks primarily targets the and flexor tendons of the , leading to potential ruptures or fractures if resistance persists, as documented in studies of jiu-jitsu practitioners. Proper training emphasizes gradual application and to ensure safety, underscoring armlocks' role in both sport and contexts.

Fundamentals

Definition and Classification

An armlock is a grappling submission technique that applies leverage to hyperextend or hyperrotate the or joints of an opponent, compelling submission to avoid or . This hold exploits the arm's anatomical limits, using body positioning and to isolate and stress the targeted . Armlocks are classified primarily into two categories based on the type of : straight armlocks, which hyperextend the joint (e.g., the armbar), and bent armlocks, which hyperrotate the or (e.g., the ). More broadly, they encompass elbow locks targeting the 's extension or rotation and shoulder locks stressing the 's rotational limits (e.g., omoplatas), distinguishing them from wristlocks, which manipulate smaller finger or joints, or neck cranks, which compress . In terminology, armlocks fall under kansetsu-waza (joint locking techniques), with ude-waza specifically denoting arm locks; for instance, ude-garami translates to "entangled arm lock," referring to a twisting hold on the arm. English equivalents include "armbar" for straight hyperextensions and "kimura" for certain rotational locks, named after judoka . These techniques play a central role in disciplines such as , (BJJ), and wrestling, where they serve as primary submissions to control or finish opponents on the ground. Armlocks are recognized as legal submissions in major competition rulesets, including the (UFC), where joint locks on large joints like the and are permitted without . In the (IBJJF), straight and reverse armbars, as well as kimuras and americanas, are allowed for all belt levels in gi and no-gi divisions. Similarly, in (IJF) rules, elbow-targeted armlocks are legal during groundwork (ne-waza), though standing applications are prohibited to minimize injury risk.

Biomechanics and Joint Targets

The joint is a complex synovial hinge structure formed by the articulations of the distal with the proximal (ulnohumeral joint) and (radiohumeral and proximal radioulnar joints), enabling primary flexion-extension and secondary pronation-supination movements. Key stabilizing ligaments include the (MCL), with its anterior bundle providing primary resistance to valgus stress, and the lateral collateral ligament complex (LCL), which counters varus forces and posterolateral rotation. The normal includes approximately 140° of flexion from full extension (0°), with limited hyperextension typically under 10° in healthy individuals, and rotation of 80°-90° each for supination and pronation. These structures render the vulnerable to hyperextension beyond neutral extension, which stretches anterior ligaments and compresses posterior osteochondral surfaces, and to hyperrotation exceeding 80°-90°, which strains the annular ligament and radial head stabilizers. The shoulder's glenohumeral joint, a ball-and-socket diarthrodial articulation between the humeral head and the shallow of the (deepened by the fibrocartilaginous labrum), permits extensive multiaxial motion but at the cost of inherent instability due to a shallow socket and loose capsule. Normal rotational range includes 70°-90° of internal rotation and up to 90° of external rotation, with the muscles and labrum providing dynamic and static compression to maintain humeral head centering. Excessive rotational torque, particularly in abduction-external rotation positions, can overload these stabilizers, leading to superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears or anterior dislocations, which account for about 96% of shoulder instabilities and occur at forces often below 20-30 Nm in compromised joints. Armlocks exploit biomechanical leverage principles, where (τ) is generated as the product of applied (F) and the from the joint's fulcrum (lever arm, d): τ = F × d. In practice, this is amplified by directing body weight through the hips and core for vertical or rotational loading, while grips isolate the limb to maximize the effective lever arm length. typically arises at submaximal strain levels, activating nociceptors in and capsules to prompt submission before structural failure, whereas injury thresholds—such as rupture or —demand higher loads (typically around 30-35 Nm for collateral ligaments or full end-range overextension), creating a narrow margin between voluntary tap-out and irreversible damage like collateral tears.

History and Development

Origins in Traditional Martial Arts

The origins of armlocks trace back to ancient combat traditions, with early depictions appearing in Egyptian tomb art around 2000 BCE. In the Middle Kingdom tomb of Baqet III at , extensive murals illustrate over 400 wrestling scenes featuring various holds and manipulations of the arms to control or submit opponents, reflecting organized training and competitive practices in ancient Egyptian society. These representations highlight arm manipulations as integral to , often used to immobilize foes in both ritualistic and military contexts. In , armlocks emerged within the ancient wrestling system known as , documented in texts like the Mallapurana from the 13th century. This treatise describes combat wrestling techniques that incorporate joint-breaking and strikes, including manipulations of the arms to dislocate or lock joints for submission, emphasizing a blend of and striking for battlefield efficacy. Such methods were part of a broader heritage preserved in epic literature and training manuals, underscoring arm control as a core element of unarmed combat. Japanese during the feudal (1603–1868) further developed armlock techniques, building on earlier traditions like , founded in 1532 as one of the oldest documented schools. Techniques such as juji-gatame, involving cross-arm locking to hyperextend the , were refined in these systems for close-quarters combat, focusing on efficient to neutralize armed or larger opponents. Chinese influences also contributed through wrestling, where arm locks and joint controls were documented in (1368–1644) military manuals, integrating throws with holds to counter grappling attacks in warfare training. These traditional practices culminated in early modern codification with Jigoro Kano's founding of in , where armlocks were incorporated as katame-waza to serve as counters to nage-waza throws, adapting principles for educational and competitive purposes while emphasizing controlled application.

Evolution in Modern Combat Sports

The transition of armlocks from to (BJJ) began with Jigoro Kano's development of in the late 19th century, where techniques such as ude-garami (reverse arm entanglement) were emphasized as part of the katame-waza (ground control) curriculum to promote efficient control and submission without excessive force. This foundation was carried forward by , a prominent judoka under Kano, who arrived in in 1914 and began teaching starting around 1917, imparting judo's principles including armlocks during informal sessions in Belem. By the 1930s, Carlos and his brother Helio Gracie adapted these teachings into BJJ, shifting the focus toward prolonged ground fighting where armlocks became central submission tools, prioritizing leverage over strength to suit smaller practitioners against larger opponents. In (MMA), armlocks gained prominence through pivotal matches involving the . Royce Gracie's quick submission victory over from mount at in 1993 showcased BJJ's ground control and submission effectiveness in no-holds-barred rules, helping popularize armlocks like the straight armbar as effective finishers against strikers in subsequent events. Earlier, in 1951, defeated Helio Gracie at in Rio de Janeiro using his signature gyaku ude-garami—a double that broke Helio's arm—highlighting the technique's devastating potential and inspiring its renaming as the "" in BJJ circles. Rule changes in modern combat sports further integrated armlocks into competitive frameworks. The (IBJJF), established in 1994, codified armlocks like the armbar and Americana as legal from positions such as mount for all adult divisions by the early 2000s, reflecting BJJ's evolution toward comprehensive ground submissions while maintaining safety protocols. In the UFC, armbars have been permitted since its inception in 1993 under minimal initial rules, contrasting with restrictions on certain twisting leg locks like heel hooks, which were occasionally scrutinized but ultimately allowed as finishes in over 20 instances from 1993 to 2020. Armlocks proliferated globally through Soviet sambo, developed in the 1930s as a military grappling system that incorporated elbow hyperextension and rotation locks from and , emphasizing rapid submissions in combat scenarios. , originating in 19th-century and popularized in U.S. carnivals, integrated armlocks such as the double wristlock and hammerlock as core "hooks" for finishing holds in no-rules matches. In the UFC from 2010 to 2020, armlocks accounted for approximately 15% of all submission victories, underscoring their enduring tactical value in high-level MMA.

Elbow Hyperextension Locks

Straight Armbar (Juji-gatame)

The straight armbar, known as juji-gatame in , is a fundamental elbow hyperextension lock that isolates the opponent's arm and applies torque to the using the attacker's hips and legs for leverage. This technique, one of the nine official armlocks in Kodokan , positions the attacker perpendicular across the opponent's body, with the legs scissoring the arm to control and extend it while the hands secure the wrist and forearm. It targets the 's hyperextension, potentially causing ligament damage if not tapped, and is classified under kansetsu-waza ( techniques). Execution begins with isolating the opponent's after gaining a dominant position, such as following a throw or from the ground. The attacker drops one to control the body, places the opponent's elbow against their own chest or for leverage, and swings the legs over the head and torso to trap the arm between the thighs. A common grip is the figure-four lock, where the attacking arm wraps around the opponent's , interlocking with the opposite hand for secure control, while the legs squeeze to immobilize the . To finish, the attacker bridges the hips upward explosively, extending the elbow while pulling the wrist toward the chest; the opponent's thumb should point upward to maximize pressure on the joint's vulnerable side. Proper alignment ensures the elbow points toward the sky, avoiding common errors like insufficient hip elevation, which reduces leverage and allows escape. Setups for the straight armbar vary by position, emphasizing fluid transitions in both and (BJJ). From closed or open guard, the attacker breaks the opponent's posture by pulling the arm across the body, then swings the legs up to capture it, often transitioning from a failed by releasing one leg and pivoting. From mount, the attacker isolates the arm by posting on the opposite side and driving the knee into the bicep, then spins to apply the lock. In , a far-side armbar setup involves underhooking the arm, sprawling to trap it, and rolling into the figure-four grip while blocking the head. These entries rely on breaking grips and controlling posture to prevent the opponent from basing out. Defenses focus on maintaining posture and disrupting the isolation early. In guard-based armbars, the defender stacks by driving the hips forward and knees toward the attacker's back, compressing the body to relieve pressure and create space for extraction; however, over-stacking risks exposing the neck or back. From top positions like mount or , keeping s tight to the body and posting the free hand on the mat prevents isolation, while a rolling escape involves tucking the chin and bridging away. Common errors include relaxing posture or extending the prematurely, which facilitates the lock. Historically, juji-gatame was considered an advanced technique in judo, with contest rules in the mid-20th century restricting its use to black belts only, reflecting its technical demands and effectiveness. In modern BJJ competitions, the armbar demonstrates high efficacy, accounting for approximately 21% of all submissions at the 2023 IBJJF World Championships.

Americana (Ude-garami)

The Americana, also known as ude-garami in , is a rotational lock that applies to the opponent's by entangling it in a figure-four configuration, primarily targeting the while secondarily stressing the through rotational . In , it is classified as a kansetsu-waza ( technique) and is applied by twisting the arm to the outside or inside to control the , often from groundwork positions. This technique leverages the 's vulnerability to , where excessive can lead to strain or if not tapped. To execute the Americana from side control, the attacker first secures the position with chest pressure and underhooks to isolate the opponent's near , grabbing the with one hand while passing the other under the to clasp the -holding hand, forming a figure-four grip with the backs of the hands facing upward. The attacker then lifts the upward while driving the downward toward the opponent's head or mat, creating rotational pressure on the ; from north-south, the process mirrors this but with the attacker's hips elevated for leverage. Setups commonly transition from mount by shimming the knees high to trap the arm above the shoulder line, or from knee-on-belly by posting the free hand and isolating the arm during posture breaks; it pairs effectively with kneebar threats to force the opponent to expose the arm while defending the leg attack. Defenses include tucking the elbow tightly to the body to reduce leverage, or bridging the hips explosively to relieve pressure and create space for escape; resisting without these can risk shoulder dislocation or rotator cuff tears due to the lock's rotational force. In usage, ude-garami remains a staple in as an official technique often chained from pins like yoko-shiho-gatame, but it appears less frequently in no-gi where wrist grips slip without gi assistance, favoring alternatives like the for similar control.

Elbow Hyperrotation Locks

Kimura (Gyaku ude-garami)

The , known in as gyaku ude-garami, is a hyperrotation submission that targets the and joints by applying rotational through a double grip. This technique isolates the arm by trapping it behind the opponent's back, forming a "chicken wing" configuration that forces external rotation of the beyond its natural range. The lock derives its name from judoka , who popularized it in modern after using it to defeat in 1951, though its origins trace back to earlier and practices. To execute the Kimura, the practitioner first secures the opponent's with one hand while threading the other under the target's to clasp their own , forming a figure-four grip. The trapped is then pulled across the body and rotated upward behind the opponent's back, with the driven toward their head and the hand toward the opposite blade to maximize on the and . This process creates intense pressure on the glenohumeral , compelling a submission to avoid or . The involve hyperrotation of the , where the is twisted externally while the is pinned, exceeding the 's typical 90-degree limit. Common setups for the Kimura occur from dominant positions like closed guard, where the bottom practitioner breaks the opponent's posture, grips the , hips escapes to align the arm across the chest, and secures the figure-four before rotating. From , the top grappler isolates the far arm by pinning the head and , slides under the to establish the grip, transitions to north-south, and arches to apply the lock. In the position, the attacker grips the and while inserting a into the for control, overhooks the arm, traps a leg in , and finishes by pulling the arm into rotation. A BJJ-specific entry involves transitioning from a failed attempt, where the defending arm is captured mid-post and redirected into the figure-four grip for immediate torque. Defenses against the Kimura emphasize early intervention to disrupt the grip or position. The defender can straighten the trapped arm fully to reduce leverage on the elbow or roll toward the attacker to relieve shoulder pressure and potentially reverse into top position. A grip break involves wedging the free hand under the attacker's thumb to pry open the figure-four, while from closed guard, the defender may counter by controlling the far arm and executing a back take to escape. Notably, during the 1951 match, Hélio Gracie endured the lock without tapping until family intervention ended the bout, highlighting the technique's potency even against resistance. Variations of the Kimura extend its utility beyond ground submissions. The standing Kimura, often used in , involves securing the figure-four grip from a clinch, raising the trapped elbow overhead, and driving forward for a throw over the head or shoulder, transitioning seamlessly to ground control. In wrestling, particularly , it appears as the double wristlock, employed for pins or reversals by controlling both wrists to the arm without full commitment to a ground finish, as demonstrated in early 20th-century competitions.

Reverse Kimura Variations

The reverse kimura, also known as a mirrored hyperrotation lock, traps the opponent's arm across their own body rather than behind the back for a foundational hyperrotation setup. This variation emphasizes orientation differences, where the attacker's body position inverts the typical figure-four grip mechanics to isolate and rotate the externally. In arts like (BJJ), it serves as an adaptive submission that exploits defensive posting of the arm. Execution involves trapping the arm across the body in the reverse direction, beginning typically from closed guard by securing an on the opponent's posted arm near their blade, grasping one's own bicep with the underhooking hand for control, and clasping the opponent's wrist with the free hand to form the grip. is then applied through upward twisting of the arm while driving the hips forward to bridge and elevate the opponent, forcing hyperrotation of the ; this differs from the standard by the cross-body alignment, which allows for tighter control in confined spaces but requires precise hip mobility to finish. Common setups occur from north-south position, where the attacker slides into place to isolate the far arm and establish the reverse grip, or from inverted guard, leveraging the upside-down orientation to trap the arm between the legs and torso for immediate torque application. Transitions from the reverse often flow to back takes, such as peeling the opponent over the hip to expose the back, or to arm triangles by releasing the wrist grip and weaving the arm into a figure-four choke setup while maintaining leg entanglement. In Sambo, the reverse kimura functions as a key submission, integrated into ground control for its efficiency in combat scenarios. Defenses against the reverse include framing the against the attacker's hips to block forward drive and disrupt balance, or flaring the outward to strip the grip and escape the figure-four; these methods are less common than standard kimura counters but prove highly effective in no-gi environments due to reduced on the arm. In (MMA), the technique excels for finishing from the , where the opponent's arm is pinned under the body, allowing isolated without full mount exposure, as demonstrated in competitive applications by grapplers emphasizing control over strikes.

Shoulder Manipulation Locks

Omoplata (Sankaku-garami)

The omoplata, known in Japanese as sankaku-garami or "triangle entanglement," is a shoulder manipulation lock in (BJJ) that employs the legs to isolate and rotate the opponent's , applying to the glenohumeral for submission. This technique derives its name from the word for "," reflecting its focus on the blade and surrounding structures. Unlike arm-based locks, it leverages leg strength and hip mobility from typically bottom positions, making it versatile for both finishes and positional sweeps. The omoplata gained prominence as a BJJ during the , evolving from judo's ashi sankaku garami—a leg-entangled shoulder lock documented in traditional judo curricula—and was popularized through the competitive success of Nino Schembri in early BJJ tournaments. It is prohibited in (IBJJF) kids divisions (ages 4-15) to minimize injury risks among younger competitors. Execution begins with trapping the opponent's in a figure-four leg configuration: the attacking leg crosses over the opponent's near the , while the supporting leg hooks under the to secure the armpit. The practitioner then rolls to the side opposite the trapped , using body to align the opponent's against their own body for leverage. To finish, the hips are elevated sharply while maintaining control of the far or belt, intensifying rotational pressure that hyperextends the . This sequence demands precise timing, as incomplete rolls can default to a sweep, transitioning the attacker to a mounted or side-control position. Hip elevation provides the critical , simulating an external force that can force a tap if the defender resists. Setups often originate from the open guard, where the practitioner off-balances the standing opponent with an overhook or triceps grip before swinging the leg across the face to initiate the trap. A common transition arises from a failed armbar in closed guard: as the opponent postures to escape the armbar, the legs readjust to encircle the arm, converting the attempt into an omoplata without releasing control. These setups frequently combine with sweeps, such as the scissor or hip bump, to elevate the opponent and secure dominant top position before the roll, enhancing the technique's utility in dynamic exchanges. Defenses emphasize breaking the leg entanglement early: the opponent can posture upward to create space, using their head to pry the crossing leg away while hand-fighting the gripping arm to prevent the figure-four lock. Rolling forward over the attacked shoulder offers an escape but exposes the back to potential chokes or armbars. The primary risk involves rotator cuff tears from the intense rotational stress on the shoulder's tendons and ligaments, particularly the supraspinatus and infraspinatus, which can occur if pressure is applied without yielding; such injuries are common in BJJ shoulder submissions and require prompt medical attention to avoid chronic instability.

Hammerlock and Chicken Wing

The hammerlock and chicken wing are manual shoulder locks that apply torque to the opponent's arm and , primarily through hyperextension and rotation from standing or grounded positions. These techniques emphasize direct hand and body control to immobilize the opponent, distinguishing them from leg-entangled variations by relying on upper-body leverage for pressure. Both are staples in arts, where they facilitate control during transitions to takedowns or pins. In the hammerlock, the practitioner grasps the opponent's with one hand and secures the fingers or with the other, twisting the arm upward and behind the back to pin it against the spine or blades. This forces the hand toward the upper back while the attacker's body weight drives the shoulder into hyperextension, often enhanced by a waistlock for added control. The chicken wing builds on this by incorporating an lift: after isolating the arm behind the back, the practitioner hooks the forearm under the opponent's armpit, scoops the , and drives the toward the head with chest pressure, increasing torque on the . Execution from the top position typically begins with a side chop to break the posture, followed by blocking the far arm to prevent counters. Setups for these locks often arise from clinch engagements in standing exchanges or sprawls during defenses, where the practitioner isolates one for entry. In wrestling and , they integrate seamlessly with throws, such as using the hammerlock to unbalance the opponent into a or ude-garami projection, leveraging the arm twist to off-center the body for a controlled . Grounded applications from or positions allow for breakdowns, where the lock transitions into pins or further submissions. Defenses prioritize disrupting the grip and relieving joint pressure, such as dropping weight to the mat to counter the upward pull or using a counter-grip on the attacker's wrist to initiate an escape roll. Extending the arm or flattening the hand against the ground can mitigate torque, while hip escapes from the bottom position create space for reversal. These techniques are commonly taught in law enforcement as non-lethal restraints, where the hammerlock or chicken wing secures a suspect's arms behind the back for handcuffing, though improper application risks shoulder dislocation. Historically, the hammerlock emerged as a core technique in early 20th-century , popularized by figures like , who used it to defeat opponents through precise leverage in matches dating to the . Known variably as the "top shoulder lock," it influenced modern , with the chicken wing serving as a grounded for added submission potential.

Advanced Variations and Transitions

Flying and Aerial Armbars

Flying and aerial armbars represent dynamic entries into the traditional armbar position, leveraging momentum from a leap to isolate and hyperextend the opponent's while transitioning from standing or guard positions. These techniques build on the foundational armbar , where the attacker's legs encircle the arm and to apply leverage, but introduce an explosive jump to catch the opponent off-guard during forward pressure. Unlike grounded variations, the aerial aspect amplifies speed and surprise but demands precise timing to avoid self-injury. Execution begins with securing grips on the opponent's and head or collar to control posture. From a standing position, the attacker pulls the opponent forward slightly off-balance, then leaps by pushing off the with one foot while swinging the opposite over the target's head and . The legs wrap around the isolated and upon landing, with the attacker's hips elevated to extend the using body weight and for the finish. In no-gi scenarios, an overhook on the bicep combined with a hip hook facilitates the swing, ensuring the arm remains trapped as the attacker drops to the in mounted armbar position. This momentum-driven isolation aids in straightening the against the joint's natural limits. Setups often involve baiting the opponent into leaning forward, such as by feigning a pull from a or open guard to disrupt their base. From spider guard, the attacker grips the sleeve high and uses feet on the to off-balance before launching the leap. The helicopter armbar variant adds a spinning entry: from bottom guard, the attacker lifts the opponent's hips with feet placed on them, releases one hook, and rotates the body to drop into a top armbar, utilizing the spin for disorientation and control. These entries capitalize on the opponent's aggressive passing attempts, turning their momentum against them. Defenses emphasize maintaining distance to prevent the initial grip or leap, such as sprawling backward upon sensing the pull or keeping arms tight to the body to deny isolation. If the jump occurs, tucking the targeted and posting hands on the can disrupt the . However, mistimed attempts carry high risk for both parties, including strains, concussions, or failed landings leading to spinal impacts, making these techniques unsuitable for without extensive drilling. These techniques gained prominence in competitions during the 2000s and continue to appear in high-level events as of 2025, with notable finishes like Shinya Aoki's 2004 flying armbar in the Reversal Cup, Vinny Magalhaes's 2009 submission at ADCC, Fabricio Andrey's 2025 counter to a single- takedown at BJJ Stars, and Gabriel Almeida's 2024 finish at the South American Trials. The sankaku-gatame, a variant using a triangular configuration around the upper body for arm control, influenced aerial adaptations by providing a stable encirclement akin to a flying triangle-armbar hybrid. Training progressions start with grip drills and controlled falls, progressing to resisted entries only after mastering basic armbar finishes to mitigate risks.

Leg-Assisted Armlocks

Leg-assisted armlocks represent a class of grounded submissions in (BJJ) and , where the practitioner's legs provide additional isolation and leverage to target the elbow or shoulder joints, often building on core locks like the or armbar. These techniques emphasize leg entanglements, such as triangles or hooks, to trap the arm while the upper body facilitates the twist or extension, making them particularly fluid in open guard scenarios. Unlike purely manual applications, the legs act as a dynamic "grip" to counter resistance and enable transitions.

Execution Steps

In setups like the leg-assisted armbar from rubber guard, the process begins with breaking the opponent's posture: frame inside their arms to pull their head down, then shift the hips to place one foot on their for leverage. Next, pull the leg upward, isolating the opponent's arm with the shin across the bicep; secure the with the opposite hand and clear the foot around the arm to form a trap. Finally, roll toward the isolated arm, using the leg to extend the perpendicularly, applying pressure until submission. This method, popularized in the system, relies on flexibility and hip mobility for the leg's compressive role. For sankaku leg entanglements, execution involves forming a with the legs around the opponent's arm and from a guard position to set up shoulder hyperrotation (see Omoplata subsection for details): extend the target arm across the body, drape one leg over the and the other under the armpit to lock the ankles, then squeeze while the hands control the wrist. A roll or bridge elevates the hips to complete the ashi sankaku garami. This variation, rooted in Judo's kansetsu-waza, enhances control by distributing force through the legs, preventing arm escape.

Setups

Common setups originate from dynamic guards like de la Riva or rubber guard. From de la Riva, hook the opponent's lead leg with one foot while gripping the sleeve and pant cuff for control; invert the hips to off-balance them, then transition by scooping the arm with the free leg to feed into an armbar or , using the hooked leg to block their base. Rubber guard setups involve inverting under the opponent to "mission control," where one leg shin-pins their back and the other frames the neck, priming the arm for isolation—posture breaks here often lead directly to the leg-as-grip submission. These entries exploit gi grips for sleeve control, adding friction to maintain the leg's hold during the transition. Transitions frequently combine armlocks with other submissions, such as rolling from a de la Riva setup into an omoplata by extending the leg over the shoulder for shoulder compression, or to a triangle-armbar hybrid where the legs adjust from arm isolation to encircling the neck and limb simultaneously. In advanced BJJ, sankaku entanglements facilitate these shifts, allowing seamless flow between elbow hyperrotation and vascular restrictions.

Defenses

Effective defenses prioritize leg disruption: widen the base to prevent the hook from seating, then separate the entangling by posting the or circling out to break the triangle's apex. Against rubber guard isolations, drive the hips away while framing the shin to peel the off the back, regaining posture to counter the trap. In gi scenarios, strip grips early to reduce control, forcing the attacker to reset. These counters emphasize proactive base management over reactive pulls.

Specifics in Advanced BJJ

Sankaku leg entanglements, or "triangle controls," are staples in high-level BJJ for their versatility in gi and no-gi, enabling layered attacks where the legs immobilize the arm for a base before transitioning. Training drills focus on fluidity: start with partner resistance in de la Riva entries, progressing to live rolls emphasizing leg timing and hip inversion to build seamless execution. These methods, integrated into modern curricula, highlight conceptual control over the arm's pathway rather than brute force.

Applications and Risks

Use in Grappling Arts

In (BJJ), armlocks serve as versatile tools for guard retention, enabling practitioners to counter passing attempts by isolating an opponent's for submission or to facilitate sweeps and reversals from positions like closed guard. For instance, the straight armbar from closed guard allows the bottom player to break posture, secure the limb, and either finish the technique or regain dominant positions, making it a high-percentage option in competitive scenarios. In IBJJF tournaments, armbars account for approximately 21% of all submission finishes, as seen in the 2023 World Championships where they comprised 10 of 47 black belt adult division submissions amid a 36.7% overall submission rate. In , armlocks are integral to groundwork (ne-waza) following standing transitions, but many organizations prohibit their application for competitors under 16 years old to minimize injury risk in junior divisions, while IJF international rules permit them in the category (ages 15-17) restricted to manipulations. This restriction applies to techniques like ude-garami, which are permitted from age 16 onward in some categories, emphasizing safe progression from throws to pins before submissions. Sambo, by contrast, incorporates armlocks more fluidly in standing-to-ground transitions, allowing immediate attacks like the standing armbar during takedowns to capitalize on momentum and control. Within wrestling and (MMA), armlocks facilitate chain wrestling entries, where wrestlers use arm control to chain attacks from neutral positions into takedowns or ground dominance, often transitioning to submissions in MMA contexts. In the UFC, armbars have resulted in over 50 finishes as of 2025, highlighting their tactical value in blending striking defense with grappling offense, as exemplified by high-profile victories from fighters like . Armlock training in arts emphasizes structured progressions, starting with isolated mechanics such as grip breaks and hip elevation for the armbar, advancing to positional flows like guard passes into counters, before integrating live to test applications under dynamic resistance. This method builds technical proficiency and adaptability, with sessions focusing on scenario-based resistance to simulate competition pressures.

Injury Mechanisms and Prevention

Armlocks, such as the armbar and , can cause significant injuries due to the high forces applied to the and . In (BJJ), upper extremity injuries account for approximately 30.2% of all reported injuries, with submissions like the armbar responsible for 22.4% of submission-related incidents and the for 12.6%. Elbow dislocations, particularly posterior types from armbars, occur through hyperextension of the via posterior-to-anterior force applied by the opponent's hips, leading to rupture of the (UCL) and common flexor tendon in nearly all cases examined. Shoulder labrum tears, often resulting from kimura torque, involve excessive internal rotation of the glenohumeral , damaging the superior labrum (SLAP tears) or anterior-inferior portion (Bankart lesions), which can cause instability and pain during arm movements. The mechanisms of these injuries typically involve overload exceeding the joint's structural limits, such as varus torques surpassing 30-40 N·m on the elbow's UCL during rotational or hyperextension stress, resulting in ligamentous failure and associated bone contusions or microfractures in 60% of armbar cases. Micro-tears in ligaments and tendons can lead to delayed onset symptoms, including joint effusion and inflammation appearing hours to days post-incident, as observed in MRI scans taken within 3 days of injury. Biomechanical principles highlight how uncontrolled torque transfer isolates the joint, amplifying damage without dissipation through adjacent structures. Long-term risks include post-traumatic arthritis, where initial trauma causes chronic joint inflammation, swelling, and degeneration, potentially limiting mobility in affected grapplers. Prevention strategies emphasize tapping early to submissions to avoid exceeding joint thresholds, a practice recommended to halt progressive overload before structural failure. Proper warm-ups, including joint mobility drills like dynamic shoulder circles and elbow flexions, can reduce injury risk by up to 75% through enhanced tissue preparedness and neuromuscular control. In grappling contexts, controlled application of techniques and partner communication further mitigate risks during training. Post-injury rehabilitation follows the protocol—rest to avoid further stress, ice for 10-20 minutes multiple times daily to reduce swelling, compression with an for 48-72 hours, and elevation above heart level—to manage acute in or injuries. Grapplers should seek immediate medical attention for severe arm pain following armlock exposure if symptoms include unbearable pain, visible swelling or bruising, numbness or tingling in the hand, or inability to move the arm without excruciating discomfort. For less severe symptoms, consultation with a general practitioner, sports physician, or physiotherapist specializing in martial arts is recommended. It is essential not to resume training or force movements until medically cleared, as this can turn a strain into a more serious tear. Most such injuries heal well with proper care, and early intervention prevents prolonged downtime. Medical attention is also advised if swelling persists beyond 3 days, pain worsens, or joint function remains impaired, as these indicate potential complications like or requiring and specialist evaluation.

References

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