Setup from Side Control

The technique begins from a basic side control position with a cross face and underhook. The instructor transitions the cross face to the far side and overbooks the opponent's arm, tucking one hand underneath while placing the other hand on the floor to block the hip and prevent the opponent from following during the transition to north-south position.

Pressure and Repositioning

Rather than simply lifting the opponent, the instructor emphasizes creating discomfort by turning the palm upward and driving pressure through the opponent's chest. This pressure facilitates moving the opponent into the desired position by combining chest pressure with a lifting motion that transitions toward the back.

Locking the Kimura

Once the opponent is positioned correctly, the instructor secures the kimura grip by holding the opponent's wrist, grasping their own wrist, and stepping back over the top. The knee is positioned on the opponent's back to prevent them from returning to a flat position, with the knee further placed over the arm to block any escape.

Finishing Without Resistance

If the opponent is not defending, the finish is straightforward: pull the elbow to the chest while rotating the entire body to drive the arm behind the back. The finishing motion uses full-body rotation rather than arm strength alone to complete the submission.

Defense Against Belt Grip

When the opponent grips the belt defensively, the instructor applies constant pressure to the wrist while rolling it to tighten the grip. The technique then transitions to a rhythmic pull-and-relax sequence, allowing the opponent's grip to loosen before pulling outward and away from the belt to lift the elbow back to the chest.

Controlled Finishing Motion

The instructor emphasizes constant, smooth pressure rather than jerky movements throughout the finish. Using body weight and chest pressure rather than isolated arm strength ensures a controlled submission that progresses steadily toward completion.

Alternative Finish from Extended Position

If the opponent strongly resists being flattened, the instructor demonstrates stepping off and using chin pressure against the opponent's shoulder while driving the chest forward to control positioning. From this position, the kimura grip is locked and the back knee blocks escape while trapping the arm if possible.

Final Submission Sequence

The sequence concludes with stepping back over the head to complete the kimura position. The finish varies based on defensive response: if undefended, a simple elbow-to-chest rotation completes the submission; if defended with a grip, constant pressure combined with pull-relax-away mechanics forces the arm behind the back to achieve the tap.

NORTH SOUTH KIMURA || Part 1 of 4

The Grapple Lab

From North-South

2 min read·8 key moments·PT5M15S video

Key Takeaways

•Setup from Side Control
•Pressure and Repositioning
•Locking the Kimura
•Finishing Without Resistance

OaE Head Coach Kevin Hall looks at North South Kimura in this 4 part instructional. In this video he looks at entry into the Kimura and how to finish when our opponent grabs their belt to defend. Please don't forget to 'LIKE' this video and if you enjoyed the content please make sure you leave a 'COMMENT' and 'SUBSCRIBE' to the channel ... Thank you ❤️ // LINKS Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Oaebjjonline... Instagram https://www.instagram.com/oae_bjjonli... Webpage / Online Courses https://oaebjjonline.thinkific.com // SPONSORS Shoyoroll Europe https://shoyoroll-uk.myshopify.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about from north-south?

This video covers setup from side control, pressure and repositioning, locking the kimura. It provides detailed instruction from The Grapple Lab.

How long does it take to learn from north-south?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.