Hey there, grapplers! 🌟

Today, we’re diving into a technique that often gets overlooked but can be a game-changer in your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey—the Kimura from bottom half guard. This move is like finding a hidden gem; it can turn the tables and put you in a dominant position even when you’re seemingly at a disadvantage. Let’s break it down and see why you should add this slick submission to your BJJ toolkit.

The Setup: Laying the Foundation

First things first, let’s talk about the setup. Being in bottom half guard might feel like a defensive position, but it’s actually a fantastic launching pad for the Kimura. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Positioning: Ensure you have a strong half guard by securing your opponent’s leg. Your inside leg should be hooking their leg while your outside leg traps their foot. Keep your head close to your opponent’s torso to minimize their movement.
  2. Control the Posture: Use your arms to control your opponent’s upper body. Your near arm should be underhooking their far arm, while your other hand is framing against their shoulder or neck. This control helps prevent them from smashing you down and gives you the leverage you need.
  3. Creating Space: Shrimp your hips slightly away to create enough space to maneuver your arms for the Kimura grip. This movement is crucial to give you the angle and leverage required for the submission.

Executing the Kimura: The Magic Moment

Now that you’re in the right position, let’s move on to the execution. Here’s where the magic happens:

  1. Isolate the Arm: Use your free hand to push their wrist to the mat. This hand placement is critical as it sets up the grip for the Kimura. Aim to keep their wrist pinned down firmly.
  2. Lock the Grip: With their wrist pinned, bring your other arm over their shoulder and grab your own wrist, creating the classic figure-four Kimura grip. Make sure your grip is tight and secure.
  3. Hip Movement: Here’s where your hips come into play. Shrimp your hips out and away from your opponent while pulling their arm towards your chest. This action helps break their posture and gives you the leverage needed to finish the submission.
  4. Finish the Submission: Once you have the grip locked and their posture broken, it’s time to finish. Use your core and hip movement to rotate their arm behind their back. Keep the pressure steady and controlled to ensure a tap without causing injury.

Transitioning and Troubleshooting

The Kimura from bottom half guard is not just a submission; it’s also a fantastic way to sweep and transition into a more dominant position. If your opponent defends the Kimura by posturing up or rolling, use their movement to transition. Here’s how:

  • Sweep: If they posture up, use the momentum to sweep them over. You can come up on top into side control or even mount.
  • Back Take: If they roll away from the pressure, follow them to take the back. This transition can be seamless and puts you in a very advantageous position.

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Stay Tight: Keep your grips and control tight. Any looseness can give your opponent the chance to escape.
  • Use Your Legs: Your legs are not just for holding guard. Use them to maneuver and control your opponent’s hips and legs.
  • Be Patient: Don’t rush the submission. Patience and precise control are key to successfully executing the Kimura.

Wrapping It Up

The Kimura from bottom half guard is a versatile and powerful technique that can elevate your game. It’s a fantastic way to turn a seemingly defensive position into an offensive one, giving you the upper hand in your roll. So next time you find yourself in bottom half guard, remember this hidden gem and give it a try. With practice, you’ll see just how effective and fun this technique can be.

At Southern Soul Academy, we’re all about exploring these techniques and helping you unlock your full potential on the mats. Whether you’re a seasoned grappler or just starting out, our community is here to support and guide you every step of the way. So come by, roll with us, and let’s continue this journey of growth and learning together.

Stay awesome, and see you on the mats! 🥋💪