Arm Drag Fundamentals

The arm drag begins with the practitioner controlling the opponent's wrist with a monkey grip (thumb excluded) and pulling the arm across their body to create an opening. This pull generates space that allows the attacker's body to enter for a takedown. The motion is executed by pushing off the back foot and stepping between the opponent's legs with the head up.

Managing Trapped Arm Position

During arm drag execution, the opponent's arm commonly becomes trapped and sandwiched between both bodies. This is a natural occurrence that practitioners should expect and not regard as a failure. The technique can still be completed effectively even when the arm is caught in this position.

Inside Trip Integration

The inside trip (similar to the judo koari gari) combines with the arm drag by hooking the opponent's leg with the instep while maintaining the arm drag position. The practitioner's foot remains elevated with the sole facing upward, with only the instep contacting the mat. Timing is critical—the arm drag should be released before transitioning to the trip to prevent the opponent from controlling the attacker's back.

Hand Positioning and Level Control

After executing the arm drag and trip, the controlling hand transitions from the wrist to the opponent's torso for a waist control or underhook position. Proper level is essential; the attacker should lower their base so the knee approaches the ground rather than remaining upright, which reduces the mechanical advantage of the trip. The back foot should be positioned slightly further back to generate proper leverage.

Elbow Defense and Counter Options

If the opponent counters with their own arm drag during the initial technique, the defender can keep their elbow positioned between both bodies to create space and prevent back control. The defender then recovers by pulling the opponent's arm across and transitioning to an over-under position. Alternative recovery paths exist even when the initial timing is compromised.

Grip Variations

Multiple grip variations feed into the same arm drag and trip sequence, including wrist straightening, wrist rolling, and the chop drag (a chopping motion followed by the drag). These variations allow the practitioner to adapt to different opponent grips and hand positioning. All variations conclude with the same fundamental takedown sequence.

Specialization Over Balance

The instructor emphasizes developing proficiency on one side rather than pursuing mediocre bilateral competence. Practitioners should invest heavily in perfecting a single-side attack before dividing attention between both sides. Elite competitors typically develop one dominant attack per side rather than identical techniques on both sides.

Arm Drag INSIDE Trip is SICK!

TeachMeGrappling Coach Brian

Inside Arm Drag

2 min read·7 key moments·PT10M26S video

Key Takeaways

•Arm Drag Fundamentals
•Managing Trapped Arm Position
•Inside Trip Integration
•Hand Positioning and Level Control

This video I teach an arm drag inside trip that I believe is one of the best takedowns in the game whether you do wrestling or BJJ. Check out the details and you are sure to find something useful! Enjoy! If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please comment below. More videos to come! Please like, share, and subscribe!! PLEASE Click this link to SUPPORT the TeachMeGrappling Channel!!! https://www.patreon.com/TeachMeGrappling or https://www.paypal.me/CoachBrianPeterson To purchase TMG or PG Merchandise go to... https://www.petersongrapplers.com/shop Your contribution is much appreciated and will help me continue to bring you content! 🙏 www.NextLevelGuy.com The NextLevelGuy Podcast with Coach Brian Peterson has been released!! Check it out!

Related Techniques

Outside Arm Drag

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about inside arm drag?

This video covers arm drag fundamentals, managing trapped arm position, inside trip integration. It provides detailed instruction from TeachMeGrappling Coach Brian.

How long does it take to learn inside arm drag?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.