Introduction to the Walk-Around Armbar
Charles Harriott, a first-degree black belt and international seminar instructor, demonstrates two variations of the walk-around armbar. This technique blends concepts from breakdancing and capoeira with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals. The walk-around armbar is presented as both a practical training tool and an entertaining way to challenge partners.
Conceptual Foundation: Rotation Direction
The core concept of the walk-around armbar revolves around rotating in the opposite direction from the traditional armbar. While the standard armbar involves rolling underneath the opponent, this technique requires rotating on top instead. Understanding this directional shift is essential for executing both the basic and advanced variations.
The Standard Armbar Reference
Harriott reviews the fundamental armbar from closed guard by reaching across the opponent's body to control the cross-side arm. The practitioner moves their head toward the opponent's hand, places their knee in position, and executes the classic armbar. This reference establishes the baseline before introducing the alternative rotation.
Alternative Rotation and Inversion
Rather than rotating toward the controlled arm, the practitioner rotates the opposite direction while maintaining a slight inversion. The shin comes over the back of the opponent's head in a controlled motion, similar to an arm drag transition. Maintaining a compact, cannonball-like position prevents the opponent from stacking and ensures proper execution.
Basic Variation: Setup and Execution
From a top-knee position (breaking traditional rules for entertainment purposes), the practitioner leans weight into one leg while keeping the other light. The primary objective is to control the opponent's knee placement by strategically kicking it aside. The practitioner secures the arm, plants their foot on the opponent's knee while falling, and completes the armbar.
Speed and Timing Considerations
The technique executes at high speed when performed on the practitioner's preferred side. As the opponent attempts a defensive response like a knee tap, the practitioner extends their free leg to collect the opponent's body. Precision footwork—avoiding placement past the opponent's shoulder—prevents sloppiness and eliminates escape opportunities.
Advanced Variation: Handling Defense
When the opponent stacks the practitioner to defend against the basic variation, an inversion becomes necessary. The practitioner reaches underneath the opponent's body near the hips and strikes the opposite leg. This transitional response allows the practitioner to reset and execute the armbar from an inverted position.
Two spinning armbar options by Charles Harriott
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Walk-Around Armbar
- •Conceptual Foundation: Rotation Direction
- •The Standard Armbar Reference
- •Alternative Rotation and Inversion
Two spinning armbar options by Charles Harriott We are joined once again by BJJ blackbelt and globetrotter instructor Charles Harriott. Charles is also an advanced breakdancer who utilizes his breakdance movements and incorporates them into his jiu-jitsu. Today he demonstrates a few ways to enter spinning armbars! Enjoy! You can find Charles on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesharriott/ To check out his BJJfanatics DVD: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/products/leglocks-101-by-charles-harriott ! Remember to put on notifications to receive an update anytime we drop a new video ! For more content, videos, solo drills and behind the scenes click on this link: https://www.patreon.com/Energia_martialarts?fan_landing=true Visit BJJ Fanatics for Leglocks Unlocked: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/products/the-keys-to-leg-locks-by-tum-energia-voorn To check out our gear go to: https://www.energia-martialarts.com/gear Instagram: @Tumenergia Instruction: Charles Harriott Assisting: Tum Energia Music: Mr. Ortiz #armbar #bjj #Charles Harriott #submission #energiamartialarts #strangle #submissiongrappling #mma #brazilianjiujitsu #UFC #submission #triangle #rearnaked choke #headlock
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about walk-around armbar?
This video covers introduction to the walk-around armbar, conceptual foundation: rotation direction, the standard armbar reference. It provides detailed instruction from Energia Martial Arts.
How long does it take to learn walk-around armbar?
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.
What are the key details for finishing walk-around armbar?
The technique executes at high speed when performed on the practitioner's preferred side. As the opponent attempts a defensive response like a knee tap, the practitioner extends their free leg to collect the opponent's body. Precision footwork—avoiding placement past the opponent's shoulder—prevents sloppiness and eliminates escape opportunities.
