The Rolling Kimura is a dynamic technique that combines sweeping mechanics with submission threats from the turtle top position. This versatile technique capitalizes on the kimura grip to create a rolling motion that either sweeps the opponent to expose their back or establishes the kimura trap control position for direct submission. The dual-threat nature forces the opponent to defend both positional advancement and submission simultaneously, creating a powerful dilemma that is difficult to counter effectively.
Developed through innovation in no-gi grappling, the Rolling Kimura represents modern BJJ’s emphasis on dynamic, flowing techniques that maintain offensive pressure throughout transitions. The technique requires precise timing, proper grip mechanics, and the ability to maintain control through rotation. When executed correctly, it chains into back attacks, crucifix positions, or direct kimura finishes, making it a cornerstone technique for anyone developing a comprehensive turtle attack system.
The Rolling Kimura works in both gi and no-gi contexts, though the mechanics differ slightly. In gi, additional grip options using the opponent’s clothing supplement the kimura grip, while in no-gi, the technique relies more heavily on wrist and arm control with tighter body connection. The rolling motion itself generates leverage that arm strength alone cannot produce, making this technique effective regardless of size differential when executed with proper timing and mechanics.
From Position: Turtle (Top) Success Rate: 60%
Possible Outcomes
| Result | Position | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Success | Back Control | 55% |
| Success | Kimura Trap | 15% |
| Failure | Turtle | 20% |
| Counter | Turtle | 10% |
Attacker vs Defender
| Attacker | Defender | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Execute technique | Prevent or counter |
| Key Principles | Establish dominant kimura grip before initiating the roll to… | Prevent arm isolation as the first line of defense by keepin… |
| Options | 7 execution steps | 4 defensive options |
Playing as Attacker
Key Principles
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Establish dominant kimura grip before initiating the roll to maintain control throughout the entire movement
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Use body weight and rotational momentum during the roll rather than relying on arm strength alone
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Keep hips close to the opponent’s body throughout the rotation to prevent separation and escape opportunities
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Maintain continuous shoulder pressure through the kimura grip to limit defensive options
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Time the roll when opponent is defensive and stationary rather than actively mobile or standing
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Stay connected to the opponent’s body throughout the transition so you move together as one unit
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Anticipate opponent’s reactions and be prepared to chain to crucifix, back take, or submission finish based on their response
Execution Steps
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Secure kimura grip: From top turtle position, reach over the opponent’s back and secure a kimura grip on their far arm. …
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Break down posture and isolate the arm: Pull the trapped arm away from the opponent’s body at approximately a 90-degree angle while driving …
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Position body perpendicular for the roll: Adjust your body position so you are perpendicular to the opponent, with your hips near their trappe…
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Initiate the roll with leg drive: In one fluid motion, throw your outside leg over your own head while simultaneously pulling the kimu…
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Maintain control during rotation: As you roll, keep the kimura grip tight and pull the opponent’s trapped arm across their body. Your …
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Read opponent’s reaction and select finish: As the roll completes, immediately assess the opponent’s body position and defensive response. If th…
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Secure finishing position and consolidate: Immediately consolidate your chosen position without hesitation. For back control, insert both hooks…
Common Mistakes
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Rolling too far away from the opponent’s body during the rotation
- Consequence: Loss of control allows opponent to escape the kimura grip and recover position, often ending up on bottom in their guard
- Correction: Keep your hips glued to the opponent throughout the entire roll. Think of rolling around them rather than away from them. Your body should maintain constant contact with their torso.
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Releasing or loosening the kimura grip during the roll
- Consequence: Opponent escapes their arm and can defend effectively, potentially reversing position or achieving top position
- Correction: Maintain maximum tension on the kimura grip throughout the entire technique. Your grip should actually tighten during the roll as the rotation loads the shoulder. The submission threat is what controls the opponent.
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Initiating the roll before properly breaking the opponent’s base
- Consequence: Opponent maintains strong base and can resist the roll, potentially countering with their own movement or standing up
- Correction: Take time to properly break their posture and base before starting the roll. Pull the trapped arm away from their body and ensure they are destabilized before committing to the rotation.
Playing as Defender
Key Principles
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Prevent arm isolation as the first line of defense by keeping elbows tight to your body and immediately fighting any grip on your wrist
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Maintain a wide, heavy base in turtle to resist the pulling force that precedes the roll initiation
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If the kimura grip is locked, immediately grab your own wrist or thigh to create a secondary defensive connection before the roll begins
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Move toward the attacker rather than away when the roll initiates to collapse their rolling angle and reduce rotational leverage
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Keep your chin tucked and back rounded throughout defense to prevent secondary attacks on the neck while addressing the kimura
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Act decisively within the first two seconds of recognizing the grip establishment, as delay dramatically reduces defensive success
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If the roll completes, prioritize turning to face the attacker immediately rather than trying to recover turtle position
Recognition Cues
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Attacker reaches over your back to grip your far wrist while their opposite hand threads under your arm to establish the figure-four kimura configuration
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Attacker begins pulling your trapped arm away from your body at a perpendicular angle while shifting their weight to position their hips near your shoulder
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Attacker repositions their body perpendicular to yours with their outside leg lifting or swinging, indicating imminent roll initiation
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You feel increasing rotational pressure on your shoulder joint combined with the attacker’s chest weight driving into your back
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Attacker’s hips shift close to your trapped arm’s shoulder while their head drops toward your far hip, establishing the rolling angle
Defensive Options
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Immediate grip fighting to strip the kimura before it locks - When: As soon as you feel the attacker gripping your wrist or threading their arm under yours, before the figure-four is secured
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Base widening and posture defense by dropping your trapped-side hip to the mat and driving away from the attacker - When: When the kimura grip is locked but the roll has not yet initiated, typically when you feel the arm being pulled away from your body
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Counter-roll by turning into the attacker and driving your weight forward through their rolling direction - When: When the roll has already been initiated and you cannot prevent it, typically as you feel your body beginning to rotate with the attacker
Position Integration
The Rolling Kimura is an essential component of a comprehensive turtle top attack system, functioning as a primary offensive weapon that chains naturally with other turtle attacks like the darce choke, anaconda choke, and standard back take. Within the positional hierarchy, turtle represents a defensive but vulnerable state for the bottom person, and the Rolling Kimura capitalizes on this vulnerability by creating immediate submission threats while advancing position. The technique integrates into the broader kimura trap system, connecting with standard kimura finishes, kimura to back take sequences, and the crucifix entry system. Each defensive reaction from the opponent creates opportunities for different techniques, making the Rolling Kimura a branching point in an interconnected attack web rather than an isolated move.