Introduction to Crucifix Submissions

This instructional guide covers advanced crucifix submission techniques from the turtle position. Many practitioners find themselves in strong crucifix positions but struggle to identify viable finishing options, particularly in no-gi grappling. This sequence explores unconventional submissions that create multiple pathways to finish.

Establishing Position and Arm Exposure

From turtle position, place the shin on the opponent's thigh and position the knee in the pocket to expose the far-side arm. Drive the exposed arm through and outward, then scoop with the second leg and switch sides. Secure a seatbelt grip on the far-side arm and scoop the elbow underneath the opponent's body to control the shoulder position.

Initial Crucifix Roll and Wrist Lock

After establishing control, push off the leg and roll in the direction the opponent's head faces to secure the crucifix position. From this position, the most accessible submission is the wrist lock: extract one foot and cross both ankles over the opponent's wrist, applying downward heel pressure with proper hip fulcrum placement.

One-Arm Choke Finish

With one hand trapped and the far arm controlled, execute the one-arm choke by grabbing the opponent's trap and pulling the elbow back toward the lap. This technique applies forearm and short-choke pressure rather than a full rear-naked choke, making it effective even with limited arm space.

Compression Choke with Top Leg

If the opponent turns the chin away, reposition by bringing the arm to the opposite side of the head with tricep pressure. Bring the top leg into play and reach underneath it with both hands to create a tight compression choke. This unorthodox variation functions as a tightening mechanism without requiring significant flexibility.

Transition to Head-and-Arm Choke

If the opponent traps the ankle between the legs, transition by turning the arm downward and reaching through the pocket to release the opponent's arm. Grab the tricep with both hands and pull the arm out, closing tight on the elbow to set up a head-and-arm choke that functions similarly to a guillotine.

Back Take with Triangle and Shoulder Lock

From the head-and-arm choke position, if finishing is difficult, scoop to the far side of the arm, slide the knee through, and transition to taking the back. Immediately look for a triangle by picking up the exposed arm and securing the figure-four leg lock, or alternatively, finish with a shoulder lock similar to an Americana.

North-South Choke from Crucifix

Return to the crucifix position after exposing the arm, and if the standard choke is unavailable, reach through the opponent's far side. Transition to a belly-down position and execute a north-south choke by turning the head out and squeezing, creating an effective transition off the crucifix control.

Strategic Application and Pressure Concept

These submissions work synergistically to create decision-making pressure for the opponent through multiple finishing pathways. The unconventional sequencing encourages panic and positional adjustment, generating new submission opportunities. Practitioners should treat this as a complete system where attempting one technique often creates the setup for the next.

Crucifix Submission Options | Jiu-Jitsu Submissions

Knight Jiu-Jitsu

Standard Crucifix

3 min read·9 key moments·PT6M11S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Crucifix Submissions
•Establishing Position and Arm Exposure
•Initial Crucifix Roll and Wrist Lock
•One-Arm Choke Finish

The Crucifix is such a dominant position, but I get lots of questions about submission options from there, particularly without the gi. In this video I show how to set it up and some of my favorite options from the crucifix, some standard and some unorthodox. Hope you like it! Please be sure to turn on notifications for new videos if you haven’t, so you can find out as soon as I upload a new one each week. Become a member of this channel for exclusive class videos not available for free. Super cheap cost for access to lots of exclusive content. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you haven’t checked out my Jiu-Jitsu Deep Dive yet, go to www.martialartsdigitalseminars.com/Jiu-Jitsu-Deep-Dive to get it. • Exclusive Class Content at Patreon.com/KnightJiuJitsu • BJJ Fanatics Instructionals here: https://bjjfanatics.com/search?q=Eli+... • T-Shirts available here: tinyurl.com/wzu6ufb • Instagram @knight_jiu_jitsu_ • TikTok @knightjiujitsu • Follow me on DTube: https://d.tube/#!/c/knightbjj • Follow me on Steemit: https://steempeak.com/@knightbjj

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard crucifix?

This video covers introduction to crucifix submissions, establishing position and arm exposure, initial crucifix roll and wrist lock. It provides detailed instruction from Knight Jiu-Jitsu.

How long does it take to learn standard crucifix?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.