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Kimura from Half Guard | BJJ Submission Guide | BJJ Graph

Oct 25, 202527 min read

Kimura from Half Guard

bjjsubmissionjoint_lockhalf_guardsafety_critical

LLM Context: Submission Data Structure

Purpose: Kimura from Half Guard is a shoulder lock submission from top half guard position. This submission can cause severe shoulder damage if applied improperly. Safety is paramount - this technique can dislocate shoulders or tear rotator cuffs within seconds of explosive application.

Setup Requirements Checklist:

  • Starting position: Half Guard Top established with secure control
  • Position control quality: Crossface or underhook preventing opponent’s mobility
  • Required grips: Opponent’s far arm isolated, figure-four grip secured
  • Angle optimization: Perpendicular angle between target arm and opponent’s torso
  • Opponent vulnerability: Arm extended away from body or framing improperly
  • Space elimination: Weight distributed to prevent sweep, elbow elevated
  • Timing recognition: Opponent frames with far arm or extends arm defensively

Defense Awareness:

  • Early defense (setup <70% complete): 50% escape success - keep elbow tight, prevent grip
  • Hand fighting (grip being established): 40% escape success - fight grips, recover arm position
  • Technical escape (Kimura locked but no pressure): 25% escape success - roll to turtle, extract arm
  • Inevitable submission (full rotation applied): 0% escape → TAP IMMEDIATELY

Safety Q&A Patterns: Q: “How fast should rotational pressure be applied?” A: “SLOW and progressive. Kimura from half guard should take 3-5 seconds minimum in training. Partner will feel shoulder pressure building gradually.”

Q: “What are the tap signals?” A: “Verbal ‘tap’, physical tap with free hand on opponent or mat, physical tap with feet. Opponent’s near arm should always be free to tap.”

Q: “What if my partner doesn’t tap?” A: “STOP IMMEDIATELY if: shoulder makes popping sound, partner shows extreme distress, partner’s arm feels unusual resistance. Release and check safety.”

Q: “What are the injury risks?” A: “Shoulder dislocation (acute), rotator cuff tears (3-6 months recovery), bicep tendon damage (2-8 weeks recovery), chronic shoulder instability if repeated injury.”

Decision Tree for Execution:

IF half_guard_established AND far_arm_extended:
    → Attempt Kimura setup (Success Rate: [skill_level]%)
ELIF figure_four_secured AND angle_created:
    → Apply progressive rotation (3-5 seconds minimum)
    → WATCH FOR TAP CONTINUOUSLY
ELIF tap_signal_received:
    → RELEASE IMMEDIATELY per protocol
    → Monitor partner for shoulder integrity
ELSE:
    → Maintain half guard, pass or establish better control

⚠️ SAFETY NOTICE

This submission can cause SHOULDER DISLOCATION and ROTATOR CUFF TEARS if applied improperly.

  • Injury Risks:
    • Shoulder dislocation (acute injury requiring medical attention, 6-12 weeks recovery)
    • Rotator cuff tears (partial or complete, 3-6 months recovery, possible surgery)
    • Bicep tendon damage (strain or tear, 2-8 weeks recovery)
    • Shoulder capsule tears (chronic instability risk)
  • Application Speed: SLOW and progressive. 3-5 seconds minimum from grip to tap.
  • Tap Signals: Verbal “tap”, physical tap with free hand/feet on opponent or mat
  • Release Protocol:
    1. Stop all rotational pressure immediately
    2. Lower arm gently to neutral position beside body
    3. Release figure-four grip slowly
    4. Check partner for shoulder discomfort or injury
  • Training Requirement: Intermediate level with instructor supervision
  • Never: Apply explosive rotation, force arm past natural range of motion, ignore tap signals

Remember: Your training partner trusts you with their shoulder integrity. The Kimura is powerful from half guard due to positional advantage. Respect the tap immediately and never crank this submission.

Overview

The Kimura from Half Guard is a high-percentage shoulder lock submission executed from the top half guard position when the bottom practitioner makes arm positioning errors. This submission leverages the top position’s weight advantage combined with the figure-four grip’s mechanical efficiency to create overwhelming pressure on the shoulder joint.

From Half Guard Top, the Kimura typically becomes available when the bottom player frames with their far arm (away from trapped leg) or extends their arm defensively. The top player isolates this arm, secures the figure-four grip, and uses their positional control to create the perpendicular angle necessary for effective shoulder rotation.

The Kimura from half guard is particularly effective because the top player’s weight prevents sweeps while the bottom player’s trapped leg limits their mobility. This combination makes escape significantly more difficult than Kimura attempts from other positions.

Submission Properties

From Half Guard Top:

Success Rates:

  • Beginner: 40%
  • Intermediate: 55%
  • Advanced: 70%

Technical Characteristics:

  • Setup Complexity: Medium - requires arm isolation and grip security against defensive player
  • Execution Speed: Medium - 5-10 seconds from grip to finish in training
  • Escape Difficulty: Medium - multiple defensive options exist but require immediate action
  • Damage Potential: High - can cause severe shoulder injuries if applied improperly
  • Target Area: Glenohumeral joint (shoulder), rotator cuff muscles, bicep tendon

Visual Finishing Sequence

With your opponent on their back in bottom half guard, one of their legs trapping yours, you establish control with your free hand controlling their far arm at the wrist. You thread your trapped-side arm underneath their forearm and grasp your own wrist, forming the figure-four Kimura grip with their arm bent approximately 90 degrees. Your weight shifts forward and toward their head, establishing a crossface or chest pressure that prevents them from recovering their defensive posture.

You elevate their elbow away from the mat while maintaining the perpendicular angle between their arm and torso. Beginning slow progressive rotation, you direct their wrist toward their head, applying external rotation pressure to their shoulder joint. Your opponent experiences increasing pressure in their shoulder, feeling the joint approaching its rotational limit and the rotator cuff muscles straining against the leverage.

Recognizing the submission is inevitable and properly locked, they tap repeatedly with their free hand on your body or the mat. You immediately cease all rotational pressure, gently lower their arm to a neutral position, slowly release the figure-four grip, and check your partner’s shoulder for any discomfort or signs of injury.

Body Positioning:

  • Your position: Top half guard with weight forward, one leg trapped, figure-four grip on their far arm, chest pressure or crossface controlling their upper body
  • Opponent’s position: On back in bottom half guard, one leg controlling your leg, far arm trapped in Kimura grip, near arm free to tap
  • Key pressure points: Shoulder joint under external rotation, rotator cuff muscles strained, bicep tendon compressed
  • Leverage creation: Figure-four grip multiplies force, elevated elbow removes structural support, positional weight prevents escape

Setup Requirements

Conditions that must be satisfied before attempting:

  1. Position Establishment: Half Guard Top established with weight forward and crossface or underhook control

  2. Control Points:

    • Control opponent’s far arm (away from trapped leg) at wrist or forearm
    • Crossface or chest pressure preventing their mobility
    • Weight distributed to prevent sweep attempts
    • Trapped leg managed to maintain top position

  3. Angle Creation:

    • Opponent’s far arm extended or framing away from body
    • Space created to thread arm underneath their forearm
    • Perpendicular angle achievable between arm and torso
    • Clear path to establish figure-four grip

  4. Grip Acquisition:

    • Control opponent’s wrist with free hand
    • Thread trapped-side arm under their forearm
    • Grasp own wrist forming figure-four configuration
    • Maintain grip security throughout rotation

  5. Space Elimination:

    • Elbow elevated away from mat removing structural support
    • Perpendicular angle maintained between arm and body
    • Weight forward preventing opponent’s bridge or sweep
    • Crossface or chest pressure limiting their movement

  6. Timing Recognition:

    • Opponent frames with far arm creating extension
    • Opponent attempts to push your upper body away
    • Opponent makes defensive arm positioning error
    • Opponent’s attention focused on leg retention

  7. Safety Verification:

    • Partner aware of tap signals
    • Opponent’s near arm clearly free to tap
    • Clear communication established
    • Verbal tap agreed upon as backup signal

Position Quality Required: Half guard top must be secure with weight forward and crossface established. If opponent has strong underhook or can bridge effectively, position must be improved before attempting Kimura.

Execution Steps

SAFETY REMINDER: Apply pressure SLOWLY over 3-5 seconds. Watch for tap signals continuously. Monitor partner’s shoulder range of motion throughout.

Step-by-Step Execution

  1. Initial Grip (Setup Phase)

    • From half guard top, identify opponent’s far arm extending or framing
    • Control their wrist with your free hand
    • Establish crossface or chest pressure with trapped-side shoulder
    • Safety check: Ensure partner’s near arm is free to tap clearly

  2. Position Adjustment (Entry Phase)

    • Thread your trapped-side arm underneath opponent’s forearm
    • Reach through and grasp your own wrist (figure-four configuration)
    • Keep their arm bent approximately 90 degrees at elbow
    • Partner check: Verify Kimura grip secure but not yet applying pressure

  3. Angle Creation (Alignment Phase)

    • Shift your weight forward toward opponent’s head
    • Establish perpendicular angle between their arm and torso
    • Lift their elbow away from the mat
    • Speed: SLOW progressive movement
    • Watch for: Early defensive attempts, arm extraction efforts

  4. Pressure Initiation (Execution Phase)

    • Begin rotating their wrist toward their head (external rotation)
    • Maintain elevated elbow position
    • Keep perpendicular angle throughout rotation
    • Speed: SLOW progressive rotation over 3-5 seconds
    • Watch for: Partner’s shoulder response, tap signals, signs of distress

  5. Progressive Tightening (Completion Phase)

    • Increase rotational pressure incrementally
    • Maintain crossface or chest pressure preventing escape
    • Keep elbow elevated and away from body
    • Monitor: Shoulder’s range of motion, partner’s face/body language
    • Critical: WATCH FOR TAP continuously - partner may have limited time

  6. Submission Recognition & Release (Finish/Safety Phase)

    • FEEL FOR TAP: Hand tapping your body/mat, foot tapping mat, verbal “tap”
    • RELEASE IMMEDIATELY:
      • Stop all rotational pressure instantly
      • Lower arm gently to neutral position
      • Release figure-four grip slowly
      • Remove crossface pressure
    • Post-submission: Ask “shoulder okay?”, check for discomfort, watch for grimacing or reduced mobility

Total Execution Time in Training: Minimum 3-5 seconds from Kimura lock to tap. In drilling, apply even slower (7-10 seconds) to develop sensitivity.

Anatomical Targeting & Injury Awareness

Primary Target

  • Anatomical Structure: Glenohumeral joint (shoulder joint), specifically under external rotation
  • Pressure Direction: External rotation combined with posterior leverage
  • Physiological Response: Shoulder joint approaching rotational limit, pain, feeling of instability

Secondary Effects

  • Rotator Cuff Muscles: Supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis under extreme stress
  • Bicep Tendon: Long head of bicep experiences compression and tension
  • Scapular Stabilizers: Stress on muscles connecting scapula to trunk

INJURY RISKS & PREVENTION

Potential Injuries:

  • Shoulder Dislocation: Acute injury if rotation exceeds joint capacity. Requires immediate medical attention, 6-12 weeks recovery, possible surgical reduction.
  • Rotator Cuff Tear: Partial or complete tear of one or more rotator cuff muscles. Recovery: 3-6 months minimum, often requires surgical repair for complete tears.
  • Bicep Tendon Damage: Strain or tear of long head bicep tendon. Recovery: 2-8 weeks depending on severity, severe tears may require surgery.
  • Capsular Damage: Tearing of shoulder joint capsule. Recovery: 4-12 weeks, risk of chronic instability.
  • Labral Tear: Damage to labrum (cartilage ring around shoulder socket). Recovery: 3-6 months, often requires surgical repair.

Prevention Measures:

  • Apply rotation SLOWLY and progressively (3-5 seconds minimum in training)
  • Never “spike”, “crank”, or “jerk” the submission
  • Keep elbow elevated to prevent elbow hyperextension
  • Maintain perpendicular angle - don’t pull arm across body
  • Stop at ANY sign of shoulder distress or unusual resistance
  • Verbal check-ins during drilling: “Pressure okay?” “Feel that?”
  • Release immediately upon ANY tap signal
  • Respect individual shoulder flexibility variations - some tap earlier than others

Warning Signs to Stop IMMEDIATELY:

  • Partner unable to tap (ensure near arm always free)
  • Shoulder makes any popping, grinding, or clicking sound
  • Partner’s face shows extreme distress or pain response
  • Unusual resistance (shoulder may be caught in capsule)
  • Partner’s body goes rigid or limp
  • ANY uncertainty about partner’s safety
  • Partner doesn’t respond to verbal check-in

Opponent Defense Patterns

Common Escape Attempts

Early Defense (Submission <70% complete - setup phase)

  • Frame and Prevent Grip → Half Guard Bottom (Success Rate: 50%, Window: 3-4 seconds)
  • Defender action: Keep far arm close to body, hand fight grips, strong frames preventing isolation
  • Attacker response: Fake Kimura to pass, establish better crossface, threaten other submissions
  • Safety note: Best defensive window - submission not established yet

Hand Fighting (Grip being established but not locked)

  • Grip Break Defense → Half Guard Bottom (Success Rate: 40%, Window: 2-3 seconds)
  • Defender action: Fight figure-four before secure, pull arm back aggressively, create defensive angle
  • Attacker response: Secure grip quickly, use weight advantage, switch to pass attempt
  • Safety note: Critical moment - if grip secures, escape becomes much harder

Technical Escape (Kimura grip locked but minimal rotation)

  • Roll to Turtle → Turtle Position (Success Rate: 25%, Window: 1-2 seconds)
  • Defender action: Roll toward trapped arm immediately, establish turtle, work to extract arm
  • Attacker response: Follow roll maintaining grip, finish from new angle, take back if available
  • Safety critical: Must roll immediately before rotation begins

Leg Attack Counter (Aggressive bottom response)

  • Heel Hook Attack → Leg Entanglement (Success Rate: 20%, Window: 2-3 seconds)
  • Defender action: Attack top player’s trapped leg aggressively, threaten heel hook
  • Attacker response: Abandon Kimura, extract leg safely, establish better position
  • Safety note: High-risk counter for both players

Inevitable Submission (Full rotation applied, shoulder at limit)

  • Tap Out → Terminal State (Success Rate: 0% escape)
  • Defender must: TAP IMMEDIATELY - multiple taps on attacker/mat or verbal “tap”
  • Attacker must: RELEASE IMMEDIATELY upon feeling/hearing tap
  • Safety principle: NO SHAME IN TAPPING - shoulder integrity is permanent, ego is temporary

Defensive Decision Logic

If [far arm not yet isolated] AND [grips not established]:
- Execute [[Frame and Prevent Grip]] (Success Rate: 50%)
- Window: 3-4 seconds to prevent setup
- Action: Keep elbow close, fight grips, strong frames

Else if [grip being established] but [not yet locked]:
- Execute [[Grip Break Defense]] (Success Rate: 40%)
- Window: 2-3 seconds before figure-four secure
- HIGH URGENCY: Last moment before submission locked

Else if [Kimura locked] but [minimal rotation]:
- Execute [[Roll to Turtle]] (Success Rate: 25%)
- Window: 1-2 seconds before rotation begins
- CRITICAL: Must act immediately

Else if [rotation applied] AND [shoulder at limit]:
- Execute [[Tap Out]] (Immediate)
- Window: Seconds before injury
- CRITICAL: Tap multiple times clearly
- NO SHAME: Preserve shoulder health for training career

Else [any shoulder pain or unusual feeling]:
- Tap immediately even if uncertain
- TRAINING CULTURE: Better to tap unnecessarily than risk injury

Training Progressions & Safety Protocols

Safe learning pathway emphasizing control before completion:

Phase 1: Technical Understanding (Week 1-2)

  • Study Kimura mechanics from half guard without partner
  • Watch instructional videos from multiple angles
  • Understand shoulder anatomy and specific injury risks
  • Learn proper grip formation on stationary object
  • Study tap signals and release protocols thoroughly
  • Practice release protocol in air
  • No live application yet
  • Quiz yourself: How does shoulder rotate? Where is rotator cuff? What causes dislocation?

Phase 2: Slow Practice (Week 3-4)

  • Controlled application with willing, cooperative partner
  • Partner provides ZERO resistance
  • Focus: Grip acquisition, angle creation, elbow elevation only
  • Speed: EXTRA SLOW (10+ seconds per repetition)
  • Partner gives “tap” at 20-30% pressure (mild discomfort only)
  • Practice release protocol every single repetition
  • Verbal communication constant: “Feel pressure?” “Too much?”
  • Instructor supervision required for first 20 repetitions
  • Goal: Build muscle memory for positioning, NOT finishing

Phase 3: Progressive Resistance (Week 5-8)

  • Partner provides mild resistance to grip establishment
  • Practice reading defensive hand fighting
  • Speed: SLOW (7-10 seconds per rep from grip to tap)
  • Partner taps at 40-50% pressure
  • Develop sensitivity to shoulder tightness and range limits
  • Emphasize positional control over submission completion
  • Practice: If partner doesn’t tap at 50%, release and reset
  • Goal: Learn setup against light defense, maintain safety standards

Phase 4: Timing Development (Week 9-12)

  • Partner provides realistic but not full resistance
  • Recognize optimal opportunities (arm extensions, frames)
  • Speed: MODERATE (5-7 seconds from grip to tap)
  • Partner taps at 60-70% pressure
  • Learn to transition to passes if Kimura defended
  • Safety maintained as absolute priority
  • Start recognizing “point of no return” sensation
  • Practice: Still release and reset if anything feels unsafe
  • Goal: Develop timing sense while maintaining controlled application

Phase 5: Safety Integration (Week 13-16)

  • Light rolling integration (50-70% intensity)
  • Proper tap recognition ingrained as automatic reflex
  • Speed: Controlled in training (3-5 seconds minimum)
  • Partner taps at 70-80% pressure
  • Competition speed ONLY in actual competition
  • Respect partner safety absolutely
  • Develop reputation as safe, controlled training partner
  • Practice: Immediate release becomes automatic response to tap
  • Goal: Safe application becomes default behavior, not conscious thought

Phase 6: Live Application (Ongoing - 4+ months experience)

  • Full sparring integration with safety emphasis
  • Read situations for Kimura opportunities from half guard
  • Apply at appropriate speed for context (training vs competition)
  • Never sacrifice partner safety for “getting the tap”
  • Continue refining control and sensitivity to partner’s limits
  • Mentor newer students on safety protocols
  • Practice: You CAN finish training partners - you CHOOSE not to
  • Goal: Mastery means control + safety + effectiveness combined

CRITICAL: Progress through phases only when previous phase is mastered. Most shoulder injuries in BJJ occur from Kimuras applied by practitioners who skip progression steps. Your goal is to become the training partner everyone trusts and wants to work with.

Expert Insights

John Danaher Perspective

“The Kimura from half guard is mechanically superior to many other Kimura applications because you have the dual advantage of positional control and leverage. The half guard top position prevents the opponent from effectively using their hips to escape, while your figure-four grip provides overwhelming mechanical advantage on their shoulder. The critical technical element is creating and maintaining the perpendicular angle between their arm and torso - this angle maximizes rotational stress on the glenohumeral joint while minimizing their ability to alleviate pressure through positional adjustment. In training, your objective is to achieve perfect grip security and angle creation where submission becomes inevitable. The finishing requires control, not speed. If your structure is correct, the tap is automatic. Release immediately upon tap - continuing pressure after submission acknowledgment has zero educational value and significant injury risk.”

Key Technical Detail: Perpendicular angle combined with elevated elbow creates maximum leverage with minimum effort.

Safety Emphasis: Danaher’s systematic approach prioritizes structural perfection over forceful application, making technique both more effective and safer.

Gordon Ryan Perspective

“The Kimura from half guard is one of my highest percentage submissions because I have complete positional control while attacking the shoulder. In competition, I can finish this in 2-3 seconds once the grip is locked. In training, I take 5-7 seconds minimum. The difference isn’t technique - it’s respect for my training partners. From half guard top, I focus on establishing the crossface first, which makes arm isolation much easier. Once the Kimura grip is secured, I can use it to pass, take the back, or finish the submission. Your training partners allow you to practice a technique that can seriously injure their shoulder - honor that trust by being patient and controlled. If you’re cranking shoulders in training, you’re not building skill, you’re losing training partners and building a bad reputation.”

Competition Application: Ryan’s success comes from positional dominance and grip security, not dangerous application speed.

Training Modification: Full intensity for competition, controlled intensity for training - this distinction is essential for long-term training partnership.

Eddie Bravo Perspective

“In 10th Planet, the Kimura from half guard is part of our ‘Lockdown’ game - we use it constantly. The half guard gives us so much control that the Kimura becomes not just a submission but a control position that opens everything. Kimura grip from half guard can force passes, create scrambles, set up other submissions, or finish the shoulder lock. But here’s the rule that’s non-negotiable: you don’t crank Kimuras in training. Period. Be creative with your entries, be innovative with your setups, use the Kimura grip for sweeps and transitions - but when it comes to finishing on your training partners’ shoulders, you must be slow, controlled, and respectful. My students know: if you hurt someone’s shoulder because you went too fast or ignored the tap, you don’t train anymore. We’ve built a reputation for unconventional techniques and creative positions, but we’ve also built a culture of safety. Both matter equally.”

Innovation Focus: Kimura grip from half guard opens entire system of attacks, not just shoulder lock submission.

Safety Non-Negotiable: Bravo’s 10th Planet culture values both creative technique and absolute safety commitment - innovation with responsibility.

Common Errors

Technical Errors

Error 1: Insufficient Positional Control

  • Mistake: Attempting Kimura without secure half guard top position
  • Why it fails: Opponent sweeps or escapes during grip acquisition, losing submission and position
  • Correction: Establish solid crossface and weight distribution before isolating arm
  • Safety impact: Poor position control leads to rushed, forced submission attempts

Error 2: Poor Grip Security

  • Mistake: Loose figure-four grip or improper wrist alignment
  • Why it fails: Allows opponent to slip arm out, reduces leverage effectiveness
  • Correction: Ensure tight wrist-to-wrist connection, thumbs interlocked, forearm pressure on their forearm
  • Safety impact: Loose grip tempts practitioners to compensate with excessive rotation

Error 3: Inadequate Angle Creation

  • Mistake: Keeping arm parallel to opponent’s body instead of perpendicular
  • Why it fails: Reduces mechanical advantage dramatically, allows shoulder internal rotation compensation
  • Correction: Create clear 90-degree angle between arm and torso, maintain throughout rotation
  • Safety impact: Poor angle causes practitioners to force technique with more rotation than necessary

Error 4: Low Elbow Position

  • Mistake: Allowing opponent’s elbow to rest on or near mat
  • Why it fails: Gives opponent structural support to resist, reduces submission pressure
  • Correction: Elevate elbow away from mat continuously, remove their base
  • Safety impact: Low elbow position risks elbow hyperextension injury

Error 5: Neglecting Leg Position

  • Mistake: Forgetting about trapped leg allowing opponent to sweep
  • Why it fails: Opponent sweeps during Kimura attempt, reversing position
  • Correction: Maintain awareness of trapped leg, balance weight distribution
  • Safety impact: Being swept mid-submission can cause uncontrolled pressure on shoulder

SAFETY ERRORS (CRITICAL)

DANGER: Explosive Rotation Application

  • Mistake: Cranking rotation rapidly without progressive pressure buildup
  • Why dangerous: No time for partner to recognize shoulder limit and tap - immediate injury risk
  • Injury risk: SHOULDER DISLOCATION, rotator cuff tear, labral damage
  • Correction: Rotate progressively over 3-5 seconds minimum in training context
  • This can cause permanent shoulder damage requiring surgery

DANGER: Ignoring Tap Signals

  • Mistake: Continuing rotation after feeling tap or hearing verbal submission
  • Why dangerous: Partner already submitted - continued pressure causes unnecessary injury
  • Injury risk: Shoulder damage, complete breach of training trust, potential expulsion from academy
  • Correction: RELEASE IMMEDIATELY upon ANY tap signal - hand, foot, verbal, or distress signs
  • This is the most serious error in all of BJJ training

DANGER: Competition Speed in Drilling

  • Mistake: Applying full competition speed (2-3 second finish) during drilling or light rolling
  • Why dangerous: Partner not defending at full intensity, cannot protect shoulder adequately
  • Injury risk: Shoulder injury, rotator cuff damage, chronic instability
  • Correction: Match speed to context - drilling slow (7-10s), light rolling moderate (5-7s), competition fast (2-3s)
  • Save competition speed for actual competition

DANGER: Forcing Past Natural Range

  • Mistake: Continuing rotation past partner’s individual shoulder flexibility limit
  • Why dangerous: Shoulder flexibility varies significantly between individuals - some tap sooner
  • Injury risk: Capsular tears, dislocation, chronic shoulder instability, labral damage
  • Correction: Respect the tap immediately regardless of when it comes - never judge partner’s flexibility
  • Never assume your partner has same shoulder flexibility as you or previous partners

DANGER: Incomplete Communication

  • Mistake: Not establishing clear tap signals before attempting submission
  • Why dangerous: Partner may not be able to tap clearly if positioning limits movement
  • Injury risk: Miscommunication under pressure leading to injury
  • Correction: Always confirm tap signals before drilling, ensure verbal “tap” is understood and accepted
  • Verbal “tap” must always be valid when physical tap is difficult

DANGER: Training Through Shoulder Pain

  • Mistake: Not tapping when shoulder reaches limit, trying to “tough it out”
  • Why dangerous: Shoulder damage accumulates - small strains become tears with repeated stress
  • Injury risk: Progressive rotator cuff damage, chronic shoulder instability, career-ending injury
  • Correction: Tap early and often in training - preserve shoulder health for long career
  • No shame in tapping - intelligent self-preservation is mark of experienced practitioner

Variations & Setups

Primary Setup (Framing Arm Isolation)

From Half Guard Top:

  • Opponent frames with far arm pushing your upper body
  • Control their wrist with your free hand
  • Thread trapped-side arm underneath their forearm
  • Lock figure-four grip and establish perpendicular angle
  • Success rate: Beginner 40%, Intermediate 55%, Advanced 70%
  • Setup time: 4-6 seconds
  • Safety considerations: Most common entry, ensure crossface before rotation

Alternative Setup (Underhook Battle)

From Half Guard Top with opponent’s underhook:

  • Fight for superior underhook position
  • When opponent extends far arm defensively
  • Abandon underhook battle, capture extended arm
  • Secure Kimura grip and finish
  • Best for: When opponent focused on underhook battle
  • Safety notes: Quick transition requires immediate position control

Alternative Setup (Pass Attempt Fake)

From Half Guard Top:

  • Initiate knee slice or backstep pass
  • Opponent defends by extending far arm for frames
  • Capture extended arm mid-pass attempt
  • Secure Kimura grip and finish or return to half guard
  • Best for: Creating arm exposure through movement
  • Safety notes: Don’t force if pass is more available

Chain Combinations

After failed Backstep Pass:

  • Opponent blocks pass with far arm frame
  • Capture framing arm during pass attempt
  • Secure Kimura grip instead of completing pass
  • Finish submission or use to complete pass
  • Transition cue: Feel their arm extend during pass defense
  • Safety: Smooth transition maintains control, prevents scramble

After opponent’s Underhook Sweep attempt:

  • Opponent extends far arm for sweep leverage
  • Base out with free hand, capture their extended arm
  • Lock Kimura grip mid-sweep defense
  • Finish or use to establish side control
  • Decision point: When sweep momentum stops
  • Safety: Ensure stable position before applying pressure

No-Gi vs Gi Modifications

Gi Version:

  • Grips: Can use lapel for additional crossface control
  • Advantages: More friction on arm, harder for opponent to slip out
  • Adjustments: Same mechanical principles, sleeve grips can assist isolation
  • Safety: Gi provides more control, be extra careful not to overuse leverage advantage

No-Gi Version:

  • Grips: Direct wrist-to-wrist control absolutely essential
  • Modifications: May need tighter grip due to sweat/slipperiness
  • Advantages: Faster grip acquisition, less gi material interference
  • Safety: Slipperiness can cause sudden pressure changes - maintain smooth progressive pressure

Knowledge Assessment

Test understanding before live application. Minimum 5/6 correct required.

Question 1: Setup Recognition (Safety Critical)

Q: What position and controls must be established before attempting Kimura from half guard safely?

A: Starting position must be Half Guard Top with one leg trapped, secure crossface or chest pressure established, and weight forward preventing sweeps. Required controls: (1) Opponent’s far arm isolated and accessible, (2) Figure-four grip secured on target arm, (3) Weight distribution stable, (4) Perpendicular angle between arm and body, (5) Elbow elevated, (6) Partner’s near arm free to tap clearly. Safety verification includes stable position, confirmed tap signals, and instructor supervision for beginners.

Why It Matters: Attempting without proper position and control increases injury risk dramatically and teaches poor technique habits.

Question 2: Technical Execution (Mechanics)

Q: What creates the submission pressure in Kimura from half guard, and what is the primary target?

A: Pressure is created by: (1) Figure-four grip providing closed kinetic chain leverage, (2) Elevated elbow removing structural support, (3) External rotation toward head applying torque to shoulder, (4) Perpendicular angle maximizing rotational stress, (5) Positional weight preventing escape. Primary target is glenohumeral joint (shoulder joint) and rotator cuff muscle group. Technique works through mechanical advantage of figure-four combined with external rotation at shoulder’s weakest angle.

Why It Matters: Understanding mechanics enables controlled application using leverage rather than force.

Question 3: Safety Understanding (CRITICAL)

Q: How fast should rotational pressure be applied in training, and what specific injuries can occur from improper Kimura application from half guard?

A: Application Speed: 3-5 seconds minimum in training (7-10 seconds in drilling). Progressive rotation allowing partner to recognize limit and tap at any point.

Potential Injuries:

  • Shoulder dislocation (acute, medical attention, 6-12 weeks recovery)
  • Rotator cuff tear (partial/complete, 3-6 months, often requires surgery)
  • Bicep tendon damage (2-8 weeks recovery, severe cases need surgery)
  • Shoulder capsule tear (4-12 weeks, chronic instability risk)
  • Labral tear (cartilage damage, 3-6 months, often surgical repair)

Tap Signals: Verbal “tap”, physical tap with free hand/foot, distress signs

Release Protocol: Stop rotation immediately, lower arm gently to neutral, release grip slowly, check partner

Why It Matters: Kimura from half guard has exceptional mechanical advantage making injury risk very high if applied carelessly.

Question 4: Defense Awareness (Tactical)

Q: What is the best defense against Kimura from half guard, and at what point does tapping become the only safe option?

A: Best defense is early arm protection - keep far arm close to body, fight grips before figure-four established, strong frames preventing isolation. Success rate: 50% if executed before grip secured. Once grip locked, technical escape (roll to turtle) has 25% success but must be immediate. Once rotation begins and shoulder approaches limit, tap is only safe option.

Tap Decision Point: When Kimura locked tight with perpendicular angle, elbow elevated, and rotation beginning. Physical indicators: shoulder at rotational limit, sharp pain in joint, feeling of instability or impending dislocation.

Why It Matters: Knowing when to tap prevents serious shoulder injuries. Smart grapplers tap to position before damage occurs.

Question 5: Anatomical Knowledge (Technical)

Q: What specific anatomical structures are targeted by Kimura from half guard, and what makes the shoulder vulnerable to this submission?

A: Primary target is glenohumeral joint (shoulder joint) under external rotation stress. Vulnerability comes from: (1) Ball-and-socket design provides mobility but less stability than hinge joints, (2) Rotator cuff muscles (SITS: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis) are small compared to leverage applied, (3) External rotation is weakest movement plane for shoulder, (4) Joint capsule and labrum can tear under excessive rotation, (5) Bicep tendon experiences compression stress. Secondary effects: scapular stabilizers, posterior shoulder capsule, glenoid labrum.

Why It Matters: Understanding anatomy creates appropriate respect for submission’s power and reinforces importance of controlled application.

Question 6: Release Protocol (Safety Critical)

Q: What is the immediate action required when partner taps to Kimura from half guard, and what is the complete release sequence?

A: Immediate Action: STOP ALL ROTATION instantly upon any tap signal.

Release Steps:

  1. Cease all rotational pressure immediately (0.5 seconds)
  2. Lower arm gently to neutral position beside their body (1 second)
  3. Release figure-four grip slowly, wrist then forearm (1 second)
  4. Remove crossface pressure and separate slightly (1 second)
  5. Verbal check: “Shoulder okay?” and wait for clear response
  6. Watch for injury signs: grimacing, holding shoulder, reduced mobility, unusual positioning

Post-Release Monitoring: Watch partner for 10-15 seconds, ensure full range of motion returns, listen for any clicking or popping, check for pain with gentle movement.

Total Release Time: 3-4 seconds from tap to full separation with safety verification.

Why It Matters: Proper release prevents injury during disengagement, demonstrates respect for training partner, and builds reputation as safe, trustworthy grappler.

Competition Applications

  • IBJJF Rules: Legal at all belt levels in gi and no-gi competition
  • Strategic Use: High-percentage submission from common position
  • Versatility: Works in gi and no-gi, can be used to facilitate passes
  • Tournament Impact: Common competition finish, also used for position control

Historical Context

The Kimura lock gained its name from legendary judoka Masahiko Kimura, who famously used it to defeat Helio Gracie in 1951, breaking Helio’s arm when he refused to tap. This dramatic demonstration of the technique’s power secured its place in BJJ history. The application from half guard became increasingly common as half guard evolved from a resting position to a sophisticated attacking position. Modern competitors like Dean Lister, Tom DeBlass, and Gordon Ryan have demonstrated the Kimura from half guard as a primary attacking weapon, elevating it from opportunistic submission to systematic high-percentage attack.

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