Kimura Submission: Master The Jiu-Jitsu Key Lock

Hey guys! Ever wanted to master one of the most effective submissions in Jiu-Jitsu? Well, you've come to the right place! The kimura is a powerful and versatile technique that can be applied from various positions, making it a crucial part of any grappler's arsenal. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the kimura, from the fundamental mechanics to advanced setups and troubleshooting tips. So, let's dive in and learn how to add this devastating submission to your game!

What is a Kimura?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to execute a kimura, let's first define what it actually is. The kimura is a shoulder lock that derives its name from the legendary Judoka Masahiko Kimura, who famously used it to defeat Helio Gracie back in 1951. This submission works by applying rotational force to the shoulder joint, often in combination with pressure on the elbow, causing significant pain and forcing a tap. The kimura is typically applied by encircling the opponent's arm with both of your arms, securing a figure-four grip, and then cranking the arm behind their back. The effectiveness of the kimura lies in its ability to target multiple joints, making it difficult for the opponent to defend. It's a technique that can be used in both Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu, as well as in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), highlighting its versatility and applicability in various combat sports.

Understanding the mechanics of the kimura is crucial for its successful application. The key is to create a strong fulcrum point, typically using your body or a part of your opponent's body, and then leveraging the figure-four grip to generate the necessary torque. The angle of the submission is also critical; you want to crank the arm in a way that maximizes the pressure on the shoulder joint while minimizing the risk of your opponent escaping. This often involves adjusting your body position and grip to find the sweet spot where the submission is tightest. Beyond the physical mechanics, there's also a mental aspect to mastering the kimura. You need to be patient, methodical, and aware of your opponent's reactions. A well-executed kimura is not just about brute force; it's about precision, timing, and control. By understanding these fundamental principles, you'll be well on your way to adding this powerful submission to your grappling repertoire.

Key Principles of the Kimura

To successfully execute a kimura, you need to understand the key principles that underpin the technique. Think of these as the building blocks of a solid kimura game. First and foremost, grip strength is paramount. You need to maintain a tight figure-four grip to control your opponent's arm and generate the necessary leverage. This means strengthening your hands, forearms, and biceps through specific exercises and drills. A weak grip can lead to escapes and failed submission attempts. Secondly, body positioning is crucial. You need to position your body in a way that allows you to maximize pressure on your opponent's shoulder while minimizing your own vulnerability. This often involves getting to a dominant position, such as side control or mount, and using your body weight to control their movement. The correct body position also creates the necessary angles for the submission to be effective.

Leverage is another critical principle. The kimura works by applying rotational force to the shoulder joint, and leverage is the key to generating that force. You need to use your body as a fulcrum to amplify the pressure you're applying with your arms. This means understanding how to use your hips, legs, and core to create a strong base and generate power. For example, when applying the kimura from side control, you can use your hips to drive into your opponent's shoulder, increasing the pressure on the joint. Finally, control is essential. You need to maintain control of your opponent's arm and body throughout the submission process. This prevents them from escaping or countering your attack. Control involves not only your grip but also your body positioning and weight distribution. By maintaining control, you can slowly and methodically apply the kimura, increasing the pressure until you get the tap. Mastering these key principles is the foundation for a successful kimura game, and consistent practice and attention to detail will help you develop the necessary skills and techniques.

Common Setups for the Kimura

The beauty of the kimura lies in its versatility – it can be set up from numerous positions. Let's explore some of the most common setups that will help you catch your opponents off guard. A very popular entry point is from side control. From this dominant position, you have excellent control over your opponent's body, making it easier to isolate their arm. To set up the kimura from side control, you can start by securing a cross-face and then transitioning to controlling their wrist. From there, you thread your other arm under their armpit, securing the figure-four grip. Another classic setup is from the mount. The mount offers even greater control and makes it challenging for your opponent to defend. From the mount, you can create an opening by posturing up and then diving for the arm. This setup often involves using your legs to control their hips, preventing them from bridging and escaping.

The guard also provides several opportunities for kimura setups. From the closed guard, you can use your legs to control your opponent's posture and create openings for the arm. A common technique is to break their posture by pulling them down and then transitioning to the kimura grip. The half guard is another fertile ground for kimura attacks. From this position, you can use your underhook to control their arm and then transition to the kimura grip. The key is to maintain a tight half guard and prevent them from flattening you out. Finally, the turtle position is often overlooked, but it can be a goldmine for kimura submissions. When your opponent turtles up to defend, their arm is often exposed, making it an ideal target for the kimura. You can use your body weight to control their turtle and then secure the kimura grip. Remember, the key to a successful kimura setup is to be patient, look for openings, and transition smoothly between positions. Practice these setups regularly, and you'll find yourself catching kimuras from all over the mat.

Step-by-Step Guide to Executing the Kimura

Now that you understand the principles and setups, let's break down the step-by-step execution of the kimura. We'll focus on a basic kimura from side control, as it's a fundamental and highly effective variation. First, you need to establish a strong side control position. Make sure you're chest-to-chest with your opponent, with your weight distributed evenly. Control their far arm with a cross-face, and use your other hand to control their wrist. Next, you'll thread your free arm under their armpit. This is a crucial step, as it sets up the figure-four grip. Make sure your arm is deep under their armpit, allowing you to secure a solid grip. With your arm threaded, you can now secure the figure-four grip. This involves grabbing your own wrist with your other hand, forming a figure-four shape with your arms. Ensure your grip is tight and secure, as this is the foundation of the submission.

Once you have the figure-four grip, you need to adjust your body position. Slide your body up towards their head, so your chest is aligned with their shoulder. This adjustment creates the necessary angle for the submission. Next, you'll begin to apply pressure. Start by pulling their arm across their body, towards their head. At the same time, use your body weight to drive into their shoulder, increasing the pressure on the joint. It's important to apply the pressure gradually and methodically, as a sudden crank can give them an opportunity to escape. As you apply pressure, watch for the tap. Your opponent will likely tap when they feel the pressure on their shoulder and elbow. Be prepared to release the submission immediately to avoid injury. If they don't tap, you can continue to adjust your body position and grip to increase the pressure. Remember, the goal is to get the tap safely and effectively. By following these steps and practicing diligently, you'll be able to execute the kimura with confidence and precision.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Like any technique, there are common mistakes that people make when attempting the kimura. Identifying and correcting these errors is crucial for improving your submission rate. One of the most frequent mistakes is having a weak grip. If your grip is loose, your opponent will have an easier time escaping. To fix this, focus on strengthening your hands and forearms with specific exercises, such as grip crushers and wrist curls. Also, make sure you're gripping tightly throughout the submission process. Another common mistake is poor body positioning. If you're not properly positioned, you won't be able to generate the necessary leverage to finish the kimura. To correct this, focus on getting chest-to-chest with your opponent and using your body weight to control their movement. Adjust your body position as needed to maintain optimal pressure on their shoulder.

Rushing the submission is another mistake that many beginners make. If you try to crank the kimura too quickly, you'll likely lose control and give your opponent an opportunity to escape. Instead, focus on applying the pressure gradually and methodically. This allows you to maintain control and maximize the effectiveness of the submission. Failing to control the opponent's body is another common error. If you only focus on their arm, they can use their hips and legs to create space and escape. To prevent this, make sure you're controlling their entire body, using your legs and hips to maintain a tight position. Finally, ignoring the opponent's reactions can be a costly mistake. Pay attention to how they're defending and adjust your technique accordingly. If they're bridging, for example, you may need to adjust your body position to maintain control. By being aware of these common mistakes and actively working to correct them, you'll significantly improve your kimura game and become a more effective grappler.

Training Drills to Improve Your Kimura

To truly master the kimura, you need to incorporate specific training drills into your routine. Drills help you develop the muscle memory, technique, and timing necessary for successful submissions. One fundamental drill is the kimura grip drill. This involves practicing securing the figure-four grip from various positions, such as side control, mount, and guard. You can do this with a partner or using a grappling dummy. The goal is to become comfortable and efficient at securing the grip, so it becomes second nature. Another essential drill is the kimura transition drill. This focuses on transitioning to the kimura from different setups, such as the cross-face from side control or the underhook from half guard. You can start slow, focusing on the mechanics, and then gradually increase the speed as you become more proficient.

The kimura finishing drill is designed to improve your ability to apply pressure and finish the submission. This drill involves working with a partner, starting from a secured kimura position, and then practicing applying pressure until you get the tap. Focus on using your body weight and leverage to maximize the pressure on the shoulder joint. The kimura escape drill is also crucial, as it helps you understand how to defend against the submission. This drill involves starting in a kimura position and then working on escaping using various techniques, such as bridging, shrimping, and creating space. By practicing the escape, you'll develop a better understanding of the kimura's mechanics and how to counter it. Finally, positional sparring is an excellent way to integrate the kimura into your live training. This involves starting from a specific position, such as side control or guard, and then sparring with the goal of setting up and finishing the kimura. By incorporating these training drills into your routine, you'll develop a well-rounded kimura game and become a more dangerous grappler on the mat.

Conclusion

The kimura is a powerful and versatile submission that can be a game-changer in your Jiu-Jitsu journey. By understanding the fundamental principles, mastering the common setups, and practicing the correct execution, you can add this technique to your arsenal and catch opponents off guard. Remember to focus on grip strength, body positioning, leverage, and control, and don't be afraid to drill the techniques repeatedly to develop muscle memory. Pay attention to common mistakes and actively work to correct them. With consistent effort and dedication, you'll be well on your way to becoming a kimura master. So, get on the mats, start drilling, and watch your submission game soar! Thanks for reading, and happy training, guys!