Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Basics

Alex Lorenzo Jiu Jitsu Basics

Copyright 2010 Street Fight Academy www.HowtoFight.net


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Table of ContentsIntroductionAn introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

4The ClinchLearn close combat fighting in the clinch

6Ground PositionsLearn how to use position to your advantage on the ground

9Joint LocksLearn all the most brutal joint locks to submit your opponent

15ChokesLearn how to choke an opponent into unconsciousness

25TakedownsLearn how to drop an opponent effectively to the ground

28Defense & TransitionHow to escape common holds and grabs

30GearGear you need to practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

34ConclusionFinal tips to become a better submission wrestler

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IntroductionBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art, combat sport, and a self-defense system that focuses on grappling and especially ground combat. Much of the technique was adapted from kodokan Judo. Learning how to execute the proper technique enables even a smaller and weaker person to defeat someone who is bigger which is why it is also used in self-defense classes.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu developed early in the 1920s, but it only gained world recognition when Royce Gracie won the Ultimate Fighting Championship four times after it was established in 1993. As a result, various schools are now teaching this martial art.

If you want to excel in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, practice makes perfect and the only way you can do that is through free sparring. This means fighting against a live and resisting opponent under realistic conditions at the same time being careful not to cause any serious injury.

Anyone can learn Jiu Jitsu. As you get better, you are promoted to the next belt class. Beginners start with the white belt and move their way to the red belt. For those who are below 15 years of age, you work your way from white to green belt. How fast you elevate depends on the amount of time you put in and how quickly you learn. To reach black belt it usually takes several years.

Jiu Jitsu promotes the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themself against a bigger, stronger attacker by using leverage and proper technique - most notably by applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the other person. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be trained for sport grappling tournaments and is very common in mixed martial arts (MMA) competition.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes taking an opponent to the ground and utilizing ground fighting techniques and submission holds involving joint-locks and chokeholds also found in numerous other arts with or without ground fighting emphasis. The premise is that most of the advantage of a larger, stronger opponent comes from superior reach and more powerful strikes, both of which are somewhat negated when grappling on the ground.

Jiu Jitsu permits a wide variety of techniques to take the fight to the ground after taking a grip. Once the opponent is on the ground, a number of maneuvers are available to manipulate the opponent into a suitable



position for the application of a submission technique. Achieving a dominant position on the ground is one of the hallmarks of the Jiu Jitsu style, and includes effective use of the guard position to defend oneself from bottom, and passing the guard to dominate from top position with side control, mount, and back mount positions.

Jiu Jitsu is very useful for street fighting because it allows a smaller person to defeat a larger, stronger attacker. In combination with boxing or another striking martial art, Jiu Jitsu is extremely effective. A proper chokehold or joint lock will almost certainly immobilize your opponent and end the fight. Caution must be used, however, since many of these moves can and will break bones, tear ligaments, and cause permanent damage.



The ClinchThe standing grappling position, also known as the clinch, is the core of clinch fighting. From a separated stand-up position, a clinch is the result of one or both fighters applying a clinch hold. The process of attempting to advance into the more dominant clinch position is known as pummeling.

The major types of standing clinch are:

A bear hug, also known as a bodylock, is a grappling clinch hold where the arms are wrapped around the opponent, either around the opponent's chest, midsection, or thighs; sometimes with one or both of the opponents arms pinned to the opponent's body. The hands are locked around the opponent and the opponent is held tightly to the chest. The bear hug is a dominant position, with great control over the opponent, and often leads to a takedown.

Collar tie is a grappling clinch hold that is used to control the opponent. It is performed from the front of the opponent by grabbing the opponent by the collar, behind the neck, or behind the trap muscle. A collar tie using one hand is called a single collar tie, and a collar tie with both hands is called a double collar tie.

The double collar tie, also known as the "Muay Thai clinch", is a stand-up grappling position often featured in Muay Thai and other mixed martial arts competitions. This is where both hands are wrapped around the back of the opponents neck from the inside. The double collar tie can be used to effectively control the opponent, and allow for throws to be executed from the position. The most typical strikes from the double collar tie are knee strikes, either to the head or to the body. The combatant executing the double collar tie tends to keep the elbows tucked in to prevent the opponent from countering with a double collar tie of his own, or with inside strikes.



A collar-and-elbow hold is a clinch grappling position where both combatants have a collar tie, and hold the opponent's other arm at the elbow. The collar-and-elbow is generally a neutral position.

An underhook is a clinch hold that is used to control the opponent. It is performed from any direction by putting an arm under the opponents arm, and holding the opponents midsection or upper body. Having an underhook with one arm is called a single underhook, while having underhooks with both arms is known as double underhooks. The typical response to an underhook is to try to break it, or to establish an overhook.

The double underhooks is considered one of the most dominant positions in the clinch because they allow great control of the opponent, and can easily be used for takedowns and throws. The double underhooks can be used to advance into a bear hug by locking the hands behind the back, and holding the opponent close to the chest. The opponent typically responds to double underhooks with double overhooks, to prevent the opponent from advancing into the bear hug.

An overhook is a clinch hold that is used to control the opponent. An overhook is performed from any direction by putting an arm over the opponent's arm, and circling it around the opponents arm or upper body. Having an overhook with one arm is called a single overhook, while having overhooks with both arms is known as double overhooks. Overhooks are typically employed in response to underhooks by an opponent.

The double overhooks are generally considered inferior to double underhooks, and is often used in response to double underhooks by the opponent. If the opponents hands can be locked to the opponents body it is possible to advance into a bear hug, with the opponents arms pinned. Most commonly however, the overhooks are used to prevent the opponent from advancing into a bear hug, by locking the double overhooks around the opponents double underhooks.

Over-under is a clinch grappling position in which both combatants have one overhook and one underhook, and is the most common stand-up grappling position in mixed martial arts. The head is typically on the same side as the overhooked arm, to allow greater weight to be put on the opponent's underhooked arm, and hence preventing the opponent from using the underhooked arm effectively. The over-under position can be advanced into a pinch grip tie by locking the hands behind the opponent's back.



A pinch grip tie is a clinch hold and stand-up grappling position that is an extension of the over-under position, but having both hands locked behind the opponents back. The hands are typically locked with a palm-to-palm grip, palm-to-wrist grip or fingers-to-fingers grip. The pinch grip tie can be used to throw the opponent, but usually the grapplers attempt to obtain a better hold such as double underhooks or double collar tie. The pinch grip tie is often a neutral position when both grapplers symmetrically have the same hold on each other.



Ground PositionsDuring the ground phase of combat the Jiu Jitsu practitioner strives to take a dominant or controlling position from which to apply joint locks and chokes. Each position provides different options for submission attempts. Ground grappling is the main focus of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Guard

In the Guard, the practitioner is on their back controlling an opponent with their legs. In pure grappling combat sports, the guard is considered an advantageous position, since the bottom combatant can attack with various joint locks and chokeholds, while the top combatant's priority is to transition into a more dominant position, a process known as passing the guard. In mixed martial arts competition or hand-to-hand

combat in general, it is possible to effectively strike from the top in the guard, even though the bottom combatant exerts some control. Generally, in a real street fight you do not want to be in the guard position because it leaves you open to kicks and stomps. The person in the guard pushes and pulls with the thighs or feet to upset the balance and limit the movements of their opponent. This position comes into play often when the opponent manages to get you on your back and you want to get the best position possible to launch counter-attacks. The two main types of guards are 'Closed' and 'Open' guards, the key difference being if the opponents have their legs locked together.

Sometimes referred to as full guard, the closed guard is the typical guard position. The legs are hooked behind the back of the opponent, preventing them from standing up or moving away. The opponent needs to open the legs up to be able to improve positioning. The bottom combatant might transition between the open and closed guard, as the open guard allows for better movement, but also increased risk in the opponent passing the guard.



Half guard or alternatively half mount is a ground grappling position where one combatant is lying on the other, with the bottom combatant having one leg entangled. Sometimes the bottom combatant is said to be in half guard, while the top combatant is in a half mount respectively. The half guard is the position that is in between a full guard and side control or full mount. The

combatant on top will try to disentangle the leg and obtain side control or mount, while the bottom combatant will try to transition into a full guard or alternatively attempt a sweep or submission. The combatant on top is however in a better position, and can strike or attempt submission holds, although not as well as in side control.

The open guard is typically used to perform various joint locks and chokeholds. The legs can be used to move the opponent, and to create leverage. The legs open allows the opponent to stand up or try to pass the guard, so this position is often used temporarily to set up sweeps or other techniques. Open guard is also a general term that encompasses a large number of guard positions where the legs are used to push, wrap or hook the opponent without locking the ankles together around them.

The butterfly guard involves both of the legs being hooked with the ankles in between the opponents legs, against the inside of the opponents thighs. The opponent is controlled using both legs and arms. The butterfly guard is often short-lived since the opponent might be able to move quite freely. The leverage in the butterfly guard allows for powerful sweeps and quick. The butterfly guard also allows one to elevate or set the opponent off balance, because of this it is particularly useful in avoiding damage from ground and pound and for many transitions.

The x-guard is an open guard where one of the combatants is standing up and the other is on their back. The bottom combatant uses the legs to entangle one of the opponent's legs, which creates opportunities for powerful sweeps. The x-guard is often used in combination with butterfly and half guard. In a grappling match, this is an advantageous position for the bottom combatant, but in general hand-to-hand combat, the top combatant can attack with stomps or soccer kicks. This having been said,



skilled use of the X guard can prevent the opponent from attempting a kick, or throw them off balance should they raise a leg.

The spider guard comprises a number of positions all of which involve controlling the opponents arms while using the soles of the feet to control the opponent at the biceps, hips, thighs or a combination of them. It is most effective when the sleeves of the opponent can be grabbed, for instance if the opponent is wearing a gi. The spider guard can be used for sweeps and to set up joint locks or chokeholds.

The De la Riva guard is an open guard that was popularized in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by black belt Ricardo de la Riva Goded. In it, one of the legs is wrapped behind the opponent's leg from the outside, the ankle held with one hand, and the other hand grips one of their sleeves. The De la Riva guard offers many sweeps, transitions and submissions, and is often used in combination with spider guard. The river guard is a position that keeps the opponent down in your guard. By being flexible and using a leg to hold the opponent down, one arm is free to work on submissions, sweeps or to strike the opponent's trapped head.

The 50-50 guard is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu position invented by Roberto Gordo Correa. In this position, the fighter on the bottom crosses a triangle on the opponent's leg, which allows for the leg to be dominated while leaving the arms free to work on sweeps and submissions. This position has been heavily criticized due to the potential of stalling a match when the fighter on top cannot pass the guard and the fighter on the bottom cannot successfully perform a sweep.

Side control is a dominant ground grappling position where the top combatant is lying perpendicularly over the face-up bottom combatant in such a way that the legs are free and he or she exerts considerable control over the combatant on the bottom. The top combatant is referred to as having side control, and is in a stable position, with the other combatant pinned beneath him or her. From there the top combatant can proceed with elbows, knees, various armlocks, or transition into a mounted position. It is high priority for the bottom combatant to sweep the top combatant or otherwise escape the position, for instance by entangling the opponent's



free legs and trying to obtain the half guard or guard.

The full mount or mounted position is a dominant ground grappling position, where one combatant sits on the other combatants torso with the face pointing towards the opponent's head. This is very favorable for the top combatant in several ways. The top combatant can generate considerable momentum for strikes such as punches or elbows to the

head of the opponent, while the bottom combatant is restricted by the ground and by the combatant on top. Another advantage are various chokeholds and joint locks which can be applied from the top, while such holds are not feasible from the bottom. The top priority for the bottom combatant is to sweep the opponent or transition into a better position such as the guard.

For those sports that allow striking from the mounted position, such as mixed martial arts, the most common strikes are punches to the face and head. Elbow strikes are also commonly used, and knee strikes are sometimes seen. In addition to punching the head, strikes to the ribs and chest can also be difficult to defend and thus effective.

The mounted position is ideal for applying a variety of armlocks. By trapping the opponent's arm against the ground, the combatant in mount can easily apply a keylock, also known as either Kimura (medial keylock) or Americana (lateral keylock). If the bottom combatant attempts to push the top one off by extending one or both arms and pushing, the opponent can transition into an armbar.

Many chokes, especially collar chokes, are also available from the mounted position. Such chokes are generally limited to sporting contestants who wear a gi or opponents wearing thick jackets, which provide a collar as an aid to choking.

Back mount or rear mount is a dominant ground grappling position where one combatant is behind the other in such a way that he or she is controlling the combatant in front. Typically, the combatant in the inferior



position is lying face-down, while the other combatant is sitting or lying on top. This is a very dominant, if not the most dominant position, since the top combatant can attack with strikes without the bottom combatant being able to see or defend.

The practitioner attaches to the back of the opponent by wrapping their legs around and hooking the opponent's thighs with their heels. Simultaneously, the upper body is controlled by wrapping the arms around the chest or neck of the opponent. This position is commonly used to apply chokeholds, and counters much of the benefit an opponent may have from greater size or strength.

The Crucifix position is a ground grappling position that involves being perpendicularly behind the opponent chest against back, and controlling the opponents arms. One of the opponents arms is controlled using the legs, and the other using the arms, hence effectively putting the opponent in a position resembling a crucifix. This position allows for elbow strikes to the head, or if the opponent is wearing a gi, it allows for a collar strangle called the crucifix choke. It is also possible to have the crucifix position in such a way that a crucifix neck crank can be applied.

The north-south position is a ground grappling position where one combatant is supine, with the other combatant invertedly lying prone on top, normally with his or her head over the bottom combatant's chest. The north-south position is a dominant position, where the top combatant can apply effective strikes such as knee strikes to the head, or easily transition into various grappling holds or more dominant positions. Transitioning into side control can be done by first switching into a particular hold known as a reverse scarf hold, where the chest points to the side, and the opponent's arm is controlled similarly to kesa-gatame.

Knee-on-stomach is a dominant ground grappling position where the top combatant places a knee on the bottom combatants torso, and usually extends the other leg to the side for balance. This position is typically obtained from side control, simply by rising up slightly and putting a knee on the opponent's stomach or chest.



A nelson hold is a grappling hold which is executed from the backside of the opponent. One or both arms are used to encircle the opponent's arm under the armpit, and secured at the opponent's neck. Several different nelson holds exist, and they can be separated according to the positioning of the encircling arm(s).

The quarter nelson involves putting one hand on the opponent's neck, passing the free arm under the arm of the opponent, and locking the free arm to the other arm by clasping the wrist. In amateur wrestling a strong quarter nelson can be used to secure a pin, or to control the opponent and advance into a more dominant position.

The half nelson is done using only one hand, by passing it under the arm of the opponent and locking the hand at the opponent's neck. Half nelsons are commonly used in amateur wrestling. In addition, the hand not being used should be holding the opponent's other wrist in so that they can not post the hand or peel the half nelson off. A power half nelson is a type of half nelson. The hand not performing the nelson is placed on the opponent's head to increase the overall power of the half nelson.

The three-quarter nelson is done by performing a half nelson using one hand, and passing the other hand at the same side in front of the opponent. The passing hand is locked with the other hand around the neck at the wrist or using a palm-to-palm or interlacing fingers grip. The three-quarter nelson can be used in amateur wrestling to pin the opponent, and is more secure than a half-nelson.

The full nelson (sometimes called a double nelson or double shoulder lock) is done by performing half nelsons with both arms. In collegiate, high school, middle school/junior high school, and other forms of amateur wrestling, the move is illegal. The holder is on the back side of the opponent, and has his or her hands extended upwards under the opponents armpits, holding the neck with a palm-to-palm grip or with interlaced fingers. By cranking the hands forward, pressure can be applied to the neck of the opponent. The usage of the full nelson in combat sports is very limited. It is a secure hold which can be used to control the opponent, but does not allow for finishing action, such as pinning the opponent, executing a reliable submission hold, or allowing for effective striking. Because it can be used as a limited neck crank, it is considered dangerous in some grappling arts, and is banned, for instance, in amateur wrestling.



Joint LocksJoint locks involve isolating an opponent's limb and using body position to force the joint out of its normal range of movement. In competition, pressure is increased in a controlled manner and released if the opponent cannot escape the hold and signals defeat by submitting, or tapping out. Obviously in a real street fight, there is no tapping out. In a real fight, you should apply full pressure quickly and aggressively rather than allowing your opponent a chance to escape. To see video demonstrations of several common Jiu Jitsu joint locks and submissions, check out JointLocks.com

While many joint locks are permitted, most competitions ban or restrict some or all joint locks involving the knees, ankles, and spine. The reason for this is that the angles of manipulation required to cause pain are nearly the same as those that would cause serious injury. Again, in a real street fight, anything is fair game. Joint locks that require a twisting motion of the knee are usually banned in competitions because successfully completing the move almost always results in permanent knee damage that usually requires surgery. Similarly, manipulations of the spine are typically banned due to the obvious danger of crushing or mis-aligning the spinal vertebrate. Leg locks are generally allowed in varying degrees.

Most joint locks involving the wrist, elbow, shoulder or ankle are permitted because there is a lot more flexibility in those joints and they are generally safe to use under tournament conditions. Many fighters practice moves whose sole purpose is to inflict pain upon their opponent, in the hope that they will tap out. This includes driving knuckles into pressure points, holding their opponent's head in order to tire out the neck, and putting body weight on top of the sternum, floating ribs, and other sensitive bones. These are not true submission moves, but rather they are generally used as distractions in lower levels of competition. They are easily countered in advanced competition, but can be very effective in a real life fight.

Armlocks

An armlock is a single or double joint lock that hyperextends, hyperflexes or hyperrotates the elbow and/or shoulder joint. An armlock that puts pressure on the shoulder joint is referred to as a shoulder lock, and an armlock that puts pressure on the elbow joint is called an armbar.



Depending on the flexibility of a person, armlocks that hyperrotate the shoulder joint can also hyperrotate the elbow joint, and vice versa.

Obtaining an armlock involves full-body leverage in order to initiate and secure a lock on the targeted arm, while preventing the opponent from escaping the lock. Therefore, armlocks are usually more easily performed on the ground, from positions such as the mount,

side control, or guard (discussed above). While armlocks are more difficult to perform standing up, they can be very effective in subduing an opponent in a street fight. As with any lock, a failed armlock can sometimes result in the opponent escaping and obtaining a dominant position, so use caution.

Armlocks are considered less dangerous in combat sports and are the most common joint locks used as submission holds. In sparring or training, armlocks are generally done in a slow and controlled manner, so that the opponent can submit before any damage is inflicted. In a real life street fight excessive force can be applied to cause muscle, tendon and ligament damage.

The armbar (juji-gatame) is a type of armlock derived from judo. It is performed from a ground position. Generally, you grab the arm of your opponent, and secure it by squeezing it between your thighs. Your legs end up across the opponent's chest, with their upper arm held between your thighs, and with their elbow pointing toward your hips. By holding the opponent's wrist to your chest, you can hyperextend the elbow joint by arching your hips against the elbow.



The flying armbar is a version of the juji-gatame that is performed from a stand-up position. By tightly holding the opponent's neck and arm, you can put one of your shins against the opponents midsection, and lean up on the opponent; at the same time, swinging the leg on the same side as the opponent's collar tie over the opponents head, into the typical juji-gatame position. The flying armbar is considered to be one of the most spectacular joint locks, but it is uncommon because of the risk of losing position.

A keylock involves holding the forearm and using it to twist the upper arm laterally or medially, similarly to turning a key in a keyhole. It is usually considered to be a shoulder lock since the primary pressure is often on the shoulder, but depending on how it is performed, significant pressure can also be applied to the elbow.

It can be applied from a multitude of positions, and it is the most common shoulder lock used as a submission hold in mixed martial arts competition. The keylock has several variations with their own names, for instance depending on in which direction the arm is rotated. The word "reverse" is sometimes added to signify medial rotation as in reverse keylock, in which case the usage of just "keylock" indicates lateral rotation. The reverse keylock is also called Kimura in Jiu Jitsu.

The figure four arm-lock, sometimes known as the americana, is a term used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to specify the lateral keylock. This lock is generally applied only from the mount or side control. The opponent's arm is pinned to the ground so that it is bent at the elbow, with the opponent's palm upwards. The wrist is grabbed with your opposite hand, and the other arm on the same side is put under the opponents arm, gripping your wrist. This results in the necessary figure-four hold. While keeping the opponent's hand pinned to the ground, you begin sliding their pinned arm down and parallel to their thigh while cranking the elbow upwards. This is referred to as 'painting'. The opponent will feel pressure on their elbow and/or shoulder.

The omoplata is also a commonly featured shoulder lock in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The locking mechanism is similar to the kimura 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



opponents 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. Though an effective lock, it is more difficult than other armlocks to successfully apply.

A hammerlock is a shoulder lock similar to the kimura lock 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. The hammerlock is well-known as a pain compliance hold in law-enforcement where it is typically used from a stand-up position to control an aggressor, and is also utilized in the application of handcuffs.

Leglocks

A leglock is a joint lock that is directed at joints of the leg such as the ankle, knee or hip joint. A leglock which is directed at joints in the foot is sometimes referred to as a foot lock and a lock at the hip as a hip lock. Leglocks are considered more difficult techniques to apply effectively than armlocks, since the legs are generally stronger limbs than the arms. Leglocks require full body leverage to be effective since they attack large joints, such as the knee.

Compared to armlocks, leglocks usually require more intricate positions than the mount, side control, or guard, and are often considered to be risky because of the possibility of losing position. In training or sparring, leglocks are applied in a slow and controlled manner, and are often not hyper-extended such as in the case of the comparatively dangerous heel hook. In a real life fight, or when applied improperly or with excessive force, leglocks can cause muscle, tendon and ligament damage.

A kneebar is a leglock which hyper-extends the knee. The basic kneebar is performed similarly to an armbar by holding the opponent's leg in between your legs and arms so the opponent's kneecap points towards your hips. By pushing your hips forward, the opponent's leg is straightened, and further leveraging hyper-extends the knee. A variation of the kneebar is done similarly, but instead of holding the leg with the hands, the opponent's foot is pushed behind one armpit. By pushing the shoulder backwards and pushing the hips forward, a greater amount of force is applied to the knee, and the lock becomes much more difficult to escape.



An ankle lock is a leglock that is applied to any of the joints in the ankle, typically by hyper-extending the talocrural joint. Ankle locks are often applied in a manner which simultaneously causes a compression lock to the achilles tendon, and sometimes also to the calf muscle.

The straight ankle lock is what is usually thought of as an ankle lock. It is typically performed by using your legs to isolate one of the opponent's legs, and placing the opponent's foot under your armpit. The opponent's knee will be facing away from you. You place your forearm at the lower part of the opponent's calf, usually at the Achilles tendon, and grab your wrist with the other hand.

By pushing your hips forward, the foot becomes forcefully plantar flexed, creating a joint lock on the ankle.

The forearm serves as the fulcrum in the leveraging, and may cause severe pressure on the Achilles tendon, especially when the bony parts of the forearm are used.

A toe hold involves using the hands to hyper-extend and/or hyperrotate the ankle, typically by grabbing the foot near the toes, and twisting or pushing the foot while controlling the opponent's leg. A common type of toe hold is the figure-four toe hold, where a figure-four hold is used to hold the opponent's foot. This type of toe hold is performed by holding the top of the opponent's foot one hand, putting the other forearm under the opponent's Achilles tendon, and grabbing the wrist. By controlling the opponent's body, and using the hands to plantar flex the foot either straight or slightly sideways, you can put considerable torque on the ankle.

A heel hook is a leg lock affecting multiple joints, and is applied by transversely twisting the foot either medially or laterally. The torsional force puts severe torque on the ankle, which in turn transfers torque to the knee. The heel hook is generally considered to be a very dangerous leg lock, with a high rate of injury, especially to ligaments in the knee. It is banned in many combat sports, including Jiu Jitsu, but is included in this guide for use in a real street fight.



There are several variations of heel hooks, with the most typical being performed by placing the legs around the leg of an opponent, and holding the opponent's foot in the armpit on the same side. The legs are used to control the movement of the opponent's body while the opponent's foot is twisted by holding the heel with the forearm, and using the whole body to generate a twisting motion, hence creating severe medial torque on the ankle. A similar heel hook can be performed by holding the opponent's foot in the opposite armpit, and twisting it laterally; a move which is referred to as an inverted, reverse or inside heel hook.

Wristlocks

A wristlock is a joint lock primarily affecting the wrist-joint and possibly the radioulnar joints through rotation of the hand. A wristlock is typically applied by grabbing the opponent's hand, and bending or twisting it. Wristlocks are very common in self defense as they are easy to perform in a standing position. They are also used as submission holds in combat sports such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Wristlocks are also used by law enforcement and military as a pain compliance hold.

The wristlock is a technique that can be applied from a stand-up position, simply by grabbing the opponent's hand and twisting and/or bending it in a non-natural direction. It is considered to be a relatively safe technique to practice with a willing opponent, but if applied suddenly and/or forcefully, a wristlock can cause ligament tears and possibly even dislocation or bone fractures.

A rotational wristlock is a very common type of wristlock, and involves forced supination or pronation of the wrist, and is typically applied by grabbing and twisting the hand. The wrist joint does not allow rotating motion, and the force is transferred to the forearm causing radioulnar rotation, eventually resulting in a joint lock on the radioulnar joint. Once the radius and ulna have been brought to their extreme positions, further twisting motion will put severe torque on the wrist. In martial arts, standing rotational wristlocks are often accompanied by the opponent willingly throwing himself on the ground to alleviate the pain.



The supinating wristlock is a rotational wristlock, and arguably the most common wristlock. It involves rotating the hand so that it becomes maximally supinated, often referred to as 'externally rotating' the wrist, and hence putting a joint lock on the wrist and radioulnar joint. This can be done by grabbing the opponent's hand with one or both of your hands, and twisting their hand outward so that their thumb points away from the center of their body. A supinating wristlock performed from a stand-up position can be used to force the opponent to the ground on their back. Straightening the arm does not alleviate the pressure, since the shoulder joint does not allow further supination of the hand.

The pronating wristlock is similar to the supinating wristlock except that it is reversed in direction, known as 'internally rotating' the wrist. The hand becomes maximally pronated, resulting in a joint lock on the wrist and radioulnar joint. The degree of possible pronation depends on the degree of flexion at the elbow, as a bent elbow inhibits rotation of the humerus. Hence, straightening the arm allows rotation of the whole arm and alleviates the pressure on the joints. The arm has to be additionally twisted until the shoulder joint reaches maximal rotation to preserve the joint lock. At this point, a strike to the locked elbow can be performed.

A hyperflexing wristlock involves forcing the wrist into hyperflexion by pushing or pulling the hand towards the inside of the forearm. A hyperflexing wristlock is often performed in combination with rotational wristlocks, since the hyperflexed hand provides a good lever for twisting. Hyperflexing wristlocks are often featured as pain compliance techniques, since they allow for good control, and a gradual pain increase if more leverage is added. Hyperflexing wristlocks are also a typical wristlock used as a submission hold.

An adductive wristlock involves forced ulnar deviation of the hand. It is typically applied by twisting the opponent's arm so that their palm points laterally and the elbow is slightly bent. The hand is then grabbed using one or both hands, and the wrist is forced downwards, hence reaching the limit of possible ulnar deviation, and creating a potent joint lock on the wrist. To avoid damage, it is possible for the opponent to drop down to the ground, and alleviate the pressure. The adductive wristlock is often taught as a self-defense technique against grabbing.



Compression Locks

A compression lock, sometimes known as a muscle lock, is a type of grappling hold which causes severe pain by pressing a muscle into a bone. A compression lock can also cause a joint lock in a nearby joint when it is applied by squeezing a limb over a fulcrum (pivot point). A forceful compression lock may damage muscles and tendons, and if accompanied by a joint lock, it can also result in torn ligaments, dislocation or bone fractures. Compression locks are often used as pain compliance holds in law enforcement.

An Achilles lock is a compression lock that involves pressing the Achilles tendon into the back of the ankle or calf. It is typically performed by wedging your forearm, especially the bony part of it, into the Achilles tendon, and cranking the foot and the leg over your forearm. This causes severe pressure on the Achilles tendon, and often also results in an ankle lock, since the ankle is being used as a point of leverage. Similarly, some ankle locks also cause a compression lock on the Achilles tendon, and hence the term "Achilles lock" is often also used to describe such ankle locks.

A bicep slicer is a compression lock that involves pressing the bicep into the humerus bone. An effective bicep slicer is applied by putting your arm or leg on the inside of the opponents elbow joint, and pushing their wrist into their shoulder. This will result in the bicep and forearm being pressed into your arm or leg which is acting as the fulcrum. The bicep slicer is most effective when the bony parts of your limb such as the shin or forearm are forced into the opponents bicep. The bicep slicer can also become an armlock when it is applied in this manner, because the leverage causes separation in the elbow joint. In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions, the bicep slicer is an illegal technique in lower level divisions of some tournaments.

A leg slicer is a compression lock that involves pressing the opponents calf and/or thigh muscle into one of the bones in the leg. Similar to the bicep slicer, a leg slicer can be applied by inserting your arm or leg on the backside of the knee, and cranking on the opponent's leg to apply pressure to the muscles surrounding the fulcrum. Generally, the direction of your shin will determine where most of the pressure will go. If your shin is pointed toward their calf, most of the pain will be on their calf muscle. Leg slicers can be used as effective leglocks to the knee through a separating motion.



Spinal Locks

A Spinal lock is a multiple joint lock applied to the spinal column, which is performed by forcing the spine beyond its normal ranges of motion. This is typically done by bending or twisting the head or upper body into abnormal positions. Commonly, spinal locks might strain the muscles surrounding the spine, while forcefully and/or suddenly applying a spinal lock may cause severe ligament damage to the vertebrae, and possibly result in serious spinal cord injury, strokes, or death.

Spinal locks can be separated into two categories based on their primary area of effect on the spinal column: spinal locks on the neck are called neck cranks and locks on the lower parts of the spine are called spine cranks.

A neck crank is a spinal lock applied to the cervical spine causing irregular movement of the neck, either through bending, twisting or elongating. A neck crank is typically applied by pulling or twisting the head beyond its normal ranges of rotation. Neck cranks are included techniques in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and mixed martial arts, but are banned from many sports competitions.

The can opener is a hyperflexing neck crank that can be applied from the opponent's guard or from a full mount, by grabbing the opponent's head using the hands, and forcing it towards the chest of the opponent. In competitions it is usually used as a taunting or distracting move, but if applied effectively in a competition, it can force a submission.

The cattle catch, sometimes known as the reverse crucifix, is a hyperflexing neck crank involving trapping the opponent's hands and forcing the head towards his chest. The technique is performed with the opponent lying on their back, and with you performing the neck crank while lying perpendicularly, face down in a side mount position above the head of the opponent. The opponent's head should be resting near your armpit. You trap one arm using your legs, and the other using your arms, and by using the pinned arms and legs as a point of leverage, you can forcefully crank the opponents head towards his chest.

The crucifix neck crank is similar to the cattle catch, but involves you performing the neck crank from the full mount position. Both of the opponent's arms are controlled, and their head is held in your armpit. By cranking the body upwards while keeping a tight hold on the opponents



arms, their head is forced toward their chest.

Both the cattle catch and the crucifix neck crank are usually referred to simply as the crucifix.

The twister is a sideways body bend and neck crank, which involves forcing the head towards the shoulder while controlling the body, hence causing lateral hyperflexion of the cervical spine. The technique involves tension in several bodyparts, and depending on the flexibility of the opponent, can also involve pain in the knees and torso region. The twister is often confused as being a spine crank. The main pressure is however on the cervical spine, hence making it a neck crank. It is performed from the back mount position, where you have one "hook" threaded through the bottom man's legs and secured behind the ankle. You then pull the bottom man's opposite arm behind his own head and grab hold of his head, pulling it down to his shoulder.

A spine crank is a spinal lock that affects the thoracic and/or lumbar regions of the spinal column. A spine crank is applied by twisting or bending the upper body beyond its normal ranges of motion, causing irregular movement of the spine. In martial arts, spine cranks are generally less used than neck cranks because they are more difficult to apply. Twisting or bending the upper body to apply pressure to the spinal column requires large amounts of leverage compared to twisting or bending the head.

One of the most well known spine cranks is the boston crab, which is commonly seen in pro wrestling. Similar to neck cranks, spine cranks are illegal techniques in most combat sports, except for some mixed martial arts competitions, where they are used as submission holds. Even if allowed, spine cranks are very rarely featured because of the difficulty of applying them. Because of this, they won't be covered in detail in this guide.



ChokesA chokehold is a grappling hold that strangles the opponent, and may lead to unconsciousness or even death. Chokeholds are used in martial arts, combat sports, self-defense, law enforcement and in military hand to hand combat applications. They are considered superior to brute-force manual strangling, which generally requires a large disparity in physical strength to be effective. Rather than using the fingers or arms to attempt to crush the neck, chokeholds effectively use leverage such as figure-four holds or collar holds that use the clothes to assist in the strangle. Depending on the reaction of the victim, it may compress the airway, interfere with the flow of blood in the neck, or work as a combination of the two.

The terminology used varies. In most martial arts, the term 'chokehold' or 'choke' is used for all types of grappling holds that strangle. This can be misleading since, except for air chokes, there is rarely any actual choking.

An air choke, or tracheal choke, specifically refers to a chokehold that compresses the airway, interfering with breathing, and leading to asphyxiation. Although less effective at inducing unconsciousness, the air choke causes excruciating pain and air hunger, and in combat sports a fighter will usually submit to such a submission hold. Air chokes have been associated with damage to the larynx or trachea, and are considered less safe than blood chokes to practice. The common law enforcement bar arm choke is an air choke done by placing the forearm across the front of the neck from behind. The free hand grabs the wrist and pulls back the forearm, hence driving the forearm into the front of the neck.

A blood choke, also known as a sleeper hold, refers to a chokehold that compresses one or both carotid arteries and/or the jugular veins without compressing the airway, cutting off bloodflow to the brain. A well applied blood choke may lead to unconsciousness in a matter of seconds. Compared to traditional manual strangulation, properly applied blood chokes require little physical strength, and can be applied successfully by a smaller person.



The "blood choke" is currently used by numerous police departments in the USA. Some departments consider it a choice when lethal force is justified; however, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity with law enforcement since close examination of statistical data has revealed the carotid artery submission technique to be relatively safe. A study conducted by the Canadian Police Research Center and posted by the Force Science Research Center in the USA stated 52.9% of the uses left the offender uninjured, 41% sustained minor injuries and less than 6% required minor outpatient procedures. There were no recorded incidents of hospitalization or fatalities and the injuries were considered incidental to the application of the technique.

An arm triangle choke is a generic term describing blood chokeholds in which the opponent is strangled in between their own shoulder and your arm. This is as opposed to the regular triangle choke, which denotes a chokehold using the legs, using a similar mechanism of strangulation against the opponent's own shoulder.

The anaconda choke is an arm triangle from the front headlock position. It is normally done on the ground. The man on top threads his arm under the opponent's neck and around, under their armpit. He then grabs his other bicep with that hand. You then attempt to pin the bottom man onto the trapped shoulder so as to better interrupt the flow of blood, all the while applying pressure with the grasped bicep. You can accomplish this by rolling the man over the untrapped shoulder, (known as a gator roll) and use the momentum to turn the man onto his trapped shoulder.

A gator roll choke is a choke starting with you facing your opponent on all fours. You pass your leading arm under the opponents arm, and inside under their neck and then grab your free arms bicep. You then drop the opponent onto their back, then follow through bridging to create additional pressure.

The Gogoplata choke is performed from full guard by using an Omoplata setup to trap the top man's arm. You pull your foot past the top man's head, pressing the shin of that leg against his throat. You then pull on the opponents head, cutting off the airflow and forcing him to submit or risk passing out from lack of oxygen.



The Guillotine choke one of the most common choke in Jiu Jitsu and MMA. To perform it, you first pull your opponents head down by placing your hand on his neck or by pulling down on his shirt so he is facing the ground. Next put your arm around the top of his neck into a position similar to a headlock. Slide your forearm down

under his chin and around his neck making sure that the blade of your forearm is against his neck. Then grasp the wrist of your choking arm with your free hand. Keep this grip on his neck tightly so that his head is wedged under your armpit.

The north/south choke is applied from the north-south position with your opponent facing up. Place your arm around the opponents neck and use the bicep to cut off blood flow on one side of the neck. This takes longer than most other chokeholds to take effect.

The rear naked choke is a simple and effective chokehold, and is the most common finishing hold in mixed martial arts competition. Applied from behind the opponent, start by looping one arm around the neck so that the crook of the elbow is under the opponents chin. Then place the hand of the choking arm on your opposite bicep. The other hand is then placed on the back of the opponents head and used to push the opponents head and neck forward into the crook of the flexed arm. Additional pressure can be applied by locking the legs around the opponents waist and arching your back to place more force against the neck.



TakedownsA takedown is a martial arts term for a technique that knocks an opponent off balance, bringing him to the ground. The combatant performing the takedown generally ends up on top. The process of quickly advancing on an opponent and attempting a takedown is known as shooting for a takedown, or simply shooting. Takedowns are a part of all grappling sports like Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and wrestling.

A leg trip refers to a technique in which you use your leg(s) to off-balance an opponent, causing them to fall to the ground. Leg trips are often integrated into more complex takedowns. Takedown techniques that are pure leg trips usually involve controlling the body of the opponent and destabilizing one or both of the opponents legs. One simple example of a leg trip is stepping one leg behind the opponents leg and pushing them over it. Most times they will lose their balance and fall onto their back. This is especially useful in a street fight.

The single leg takedown involves grabbing one of the opponents legs, usually with both hands, and forcing the opponent to the ground. Typically, the lower part of the leg is pulled in one direction, while the shoulder is driven into the body or upper part of the leg in the other direction.

There are several varieties of single leg takedowns. One common variety is called the ankle pick, which involves shooting and grabbing the ankle. You simply grab hold and pull the ankle upward. Another type is called the high crotch, where you grab the leg high up in the crotch area. Both of

these takedowns can be down with more force by driving the shoulder into the opponent's body. Single leg takedowns can also be executed in combination with a leg trip to the other leg, which additionally destabilizes the opponent. Be cautious of knee strikes while shooting for a leg takedowns in a real fight.



The double leg takedown involves grabbing around the opponent's legs with both arms and driving forward with the chest to force the opponent to the ground. There are several ways to force the opponent to the ground, such as lifting and slamming, or pushing forward with the shoulder while pulling the opponent's legs. This can be done from the clinch by dropping down on one knee and wrapping up the opponent's knees. By clenching together, you are narrowing their base making it easy to knock them off-balance.

Another form of a double leg takedown is the double leg and trip. This is when you shoot in and grab hold of both opponent's legs, then swing your

own leg around or between, and behind the opponent's legs. You then push your opponent over your leg, tripping him. A double ankle pick is another type of double leg takedown.

Takedowns can be very effective in a street fight and can immobilize your opponent long enough for you to escape or take control of the fight. In Jiu Jitsu there is no chance of the opponent knee striking, however this can be done in a real fight so use caution. Get an opponent on the ground in a submissive position is a huge advantage and often the end of a fight.



DefenseDefense is a big part of any combat sport, including Jiu Jitsu. Jiu Jitsu is all about gaining the dominant position. Whether on the ground or in a standing clinch, gaining the dominant position is the name of the game. In order to gain the dominant position, you need to be good at transitions. If your opponent gets control of you, you'll need to be able to get out of it as quickly as possible or you could face defeat. Here are some simple defensive moves and ground transitions.

Defending a PunchIf an opponent goes for a punch, you'll want to deflect or block it using your hand. Immediately after, you can shoot for a clinch while his arm is still

extended. At this point you'll want to wrap him up and get control of his other arm. In order to lift the opponent off the ground, turn so you're facing the same direction as him. During the turn, keep your hips lower than his and bump into him, knocking him off balance. Your right arm will go under his left arm and to his back while your left arm pulls his right to your waist.

At this point you can flip him over your back and throw him to the floor. Just pull down and to the left with your left arm and at the same time, twist your hips to the right. Once they are on the ground you should immediately establish a position of

control.

Defending a KickAlways keep both hands at the sides of the face to protect it from strikes. If it is a low kick, use your legs to defend it, rather than your arms.Always keep at least one hand up in case they decide to chamber the kick and go for the face at the last second. If you reach low and try to grab the leg, they may go for a combination to the face.



As you lift your leg to defend, keep your knee raised above your waistline. Reach down with one hand and grab the opponents leg, while leaving the other up to guard the face.

Once you get a hold of the ankle, step forward with your other leg and hook it around the opponent's planted leg. Step forward enough so that your stomach is touching the opponent's striking leg.

At this point you can shove the opponents chest or shoulder with your free hand while tripping their plant leg. Pull against their extended leg at the same time for extra force. Once on the ground, assume the dominant position.

Bear Hug Defense

When an opponent bear hugs you from behind your arms will be pinned leaving you with less options for defending yourself. In this case, you'll want to take a deep breath to expand your diaphragm as much as you can. This will cause them to widen their grip. Now, all in one move, combine the following steps:

1. Let out the air, becoming instantly smaller than you were before

2. Squat to the floor, lowering your base, and spread your arms apart

breaking his grip

3. Drive your butt into his hips as you drop your weight

The combination of these moves done simultaneously with proper speed and force will break the hold and leave him off balanced. At this point you can grab hold of his arm, drop your hips down, and throw him over your shoulder.

Rear Choke Defense

In this situation the opponent has secured an arm around your neck from behind. This is very common in street fights so be sure to learn it.

Begin by bending your knees and positioning your hips to the right of your opponent. Next, grab his sleeve at the shoulder with your right hand and pull down.



Next, drop your hips below your attacker by bending your knees and squatting down. To avoid additional pressure on the neck, continue to pull down on the opponents right arm with both hands.

After you get your hips below the opponents belt line, attempt to lift the opponent onto your hips. This is done by simultaneously leaning forward and straightening the knees. Continue pulling down on the opponents arms to assist the lift and take pressure off the choke.

You can now throw the opponent over your back using a thrusting movement as seen in the image to the left. To do it, simply pull the opponents arm down and to the right, leading him to your right side. Make a slight twisting motion to the right with your hips and roll him over your shoulder and back. Once the opponent is on the ground you should immediately go for a mount or begin striking so they cannot recover.

Shrimping (Hip Escape)Shrimping is one of the most common defensive moves taught in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, used to escape from a mount while on the ground. It is usually one of the first defensive moves you'll learn in a BJJ class. If your opponent gets a dominant position on you, you'll need to reverse it quickly or you could face defeat.

It is very basic and involves you lying flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet planted right under your butt. You then turn on your side, push off with your feet, and thrust your hips backward while pushing off with your hands. This can also be done with just one foot planted. Here are a few drill videos that can help you better visualize it:Shrimping DrillShrimping/Hip Escape



The Upa (Bridge)The Upa, also known as the 'hook and roll', involves taking control of your opponents arm and leg, and rolling over them, gaining the top position. To perform it, grab one of your of your opponent's arms with both of your hands. The hand on the same side as the opponent's arm reaches up and grabs the elbow. The hand on your opposite side reaches across the body and grabs the wrist of your opponent, holding it in place.

Next, secure your opponent's same-side leg. This means if you are holding their right arm, secure their right leg. Do this by placing your foot on the outside of their foot and hooking it. Make sure your ankles are touching so your opponent can not slip out. Now you have control of both their arm and leg on one side.

Bridge straight up and push hard with both legs to shoot your hips up toward the sky. This takes advantage of the powerful muscles in your legs. Even a very heavy opponent can be easily lifted this way. Your opponent will be propelled both up and forward.

While bridging, push with your legs toward your same-side shoulder. This should be the same side that you are trapping your opponent's arm and leg. Since he can't use his arm and leg on that side to support him, he has no way to stop you from rolling him over. Now just flip him over onto his back and take the top position. Make sure you get him all the way on his back, don't let him stop you on his side. Most times you will end up in the guard position, but you can get the mount if you're good.

Here is an excellent demonstration video:Upa Mount Escape



GearWhile reading and mentally visualizing these techniques is very helpful, you really need to practice them to become good at grappling and Jiu Jitsu. Practice and repetition, like anything, is the key to being able to perform these moves quickly and effectively under pressure. It's easy to remember how to perform an armbar when you're sitting at home on the couch, but can you do it in a fight? Practice until you can perform it without thinking about it. Here is some important gear you'll need to practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Grappling Gloves

Grappling gloves aren't necessary for pure Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but if you want to practice real life grappling and ground game, you may want to get a pair. This allows you to have your fingers free for grappling but still allows you to practice striking as well.

Grappling Dummy

If you really want to practice grappling and ground striking but don't have a training partner, you can get yourself a grappling dummy. There are many different types and weights when it comes to this type of dummy, and they can get expensive. The benefit is that they can be used to practice slams, takedowns, chokes, and transitions. Lighter bags are good for practicing throws. If you really want to

practice joint locks and submissions, you'll need to get a dummy with arms and legs. These can get expensive, but allow you to practice on your own if you don't have a partner. I would highly recommend practicing grappling with a partner, but a dummy can still be useful, especially for throws and takedowns.



ConclusionBrazilian Jiu Jitsu has become one of the most important facets of MMA and cage fighting because it allows a fighter of any size to subdue and submit an opponent even if they are much stronger or larger. Submission grappling is a more technical style of fighting that doesn't require as much strength or speed as some other styles like Muay Thai. No matter how big or strong someone is, they won't be able to withstand their joint being torn or their blood circulation being cut off.

While Jiu Jitsu is extremely useful in both sport fighting and street fighting, it takes a lot of time and practice to master. Going to the ground is risky in any fight and if you aren't confident in your grappling skills you can get into serious trouble fast. For use in real life confrontations, it's best to focus on a few specific chokes and joint locks and master them rather than trying to become a Jiu Jitsu master. Most times a simple head lock or arm bar is plenty to subdue even the most aggressive opponent.

To really master BJJ you'll need to practice with a real person. If you can, take an introductory course at your local dojo. If money is an issue or you don't have access to a BJJ gym, a trusted sparring partner can be extremely helpful. Unlike sports like boxing and Muay Thai, there's not much you can do with heavy bags and speed bags. Jiu Jitsu requires a live opponent in order to really get a feel for how a move is performed.

Generally, you'll want to avoid going to the ground in a real fight if you can help it. The ground is dangerous even if you have the advantage, so use caution. Focus more effort on stand-up grappling, standing chokes and locks, and particularly takedowns. A simple trip or takedown can often give you time to escape a dangerous situation or take control of the situation without the need for doing serious damage to an opponent.

If things do end up on the ground, you should note that real life fights will focus mainly on striking rather than submission. In competition, striking is not allowed, in real life, it is used heavily. Generally, you do not ever want your opponent to have top position, and should do anything you can to remain on top with their arms restrained. This is compared to traditional BJJ where the bottom is sometimes considered the dominant position.


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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Basics