Introduction to Essential Submissions

This guide covers the first 10 submissions that beginners should master. These techniques are high-percentage and require minimal coordination to execute effectively. With consistent practice, even novice practitioners will experience immediate success in training and competition.

The Arm Bar

The arm bar is one of jiu-jitsu's most fundamental and effective submissions. From guard, secure the opponent's neck, step on their hip, and pinch the knee against their shoulder. Bring the bottom leg across their shoulders while rotating perpendicular, then place the top leg over their head with a curled foot to prevent stacking. Execute the finish by grasping the wrist with both hands, keeping the thumb pointed upward, and driving the hips forward while cutting a sharp angle.

The Americana (Key Lock)

The Americana is an excellent arm lock for white belts and pressure-based passers. When the opponent frames on the neck, underhook their arm and drive it to the mat, then secure both wrists in a figure-4 grip. Position the elbow on the mat beside their neck to prevent escape, then finish by bringing the elbow closer to the hip and rotating the grip. This submission translates effectively from mount position and offers multiple transition opportunities.

The Kamora Trap

The Kamora is a versatile arm lock similar to the Americana, commonly set from half guard. When the opponent pumels an underhook, shift weight onto their underhook and use the elbow to pry their wrist to the ground. Secure a figure-4 grip and slide the knee to their armpit to maintain mat pressure. Rotate the grip while thinking about moving their hand upward, keeping their wrist away from their body to prevent grip breaks.

The Triangle Choke

The triangle is a high-percentage submission effective at all belt levels. From closed guard, break the opponent's posture by pulling their neck, then shove their wrist to their chest and throw the top leg over their neck. Lock the legs by grasping the shin and creating a secure figure-4 position. Execute the finish by walking the shoulders back and pulling the head downward, or by turning perpendicular and squeezing while controlling their leg.

The Darce Choke

The Darce is a high-percentage front headlock submission favored by many advanced practitioners. Slide the arm underneath the opponent's armpits past their neck and clamp the hands together with the thumb between the fingers. Drive the elbows together and use shoulder pressure to roll them to their side, then slide the hand down to a figure-4 position. Maximize pressure by positioning the lower hand as close to the shoulder as possible and sprawl to finish.

The Bow and Arrow Choke

The bow and arrow is a fundamental rear control submission accessible to all skill levels. From back control, secure the opponent's collar with the top arm while reaching for their knee with the bottom arm. Pull their knee toward you while cutting an angle and throwing the leg over their shoulder, then cross the ankles to lock the position. Keep the shoulder behind their neck to prevent rolling escapes and maintain positional control throughout the submission.

The First 10 Bjj Submissions You Should Learn

Jedi Does Jiujitsu
3 min read·7 key moments·PT11M46S video

Key Takeaways

  • Introduction to Essential Submissions
  • The Arm Bar
  • The Americana (Key Lock)
  • The Kamora Trap

In today’s video I’ll be giving you the 10 first bjj submissions that every white belt should learn. These are the submissions which are the easiest to learn and start seeing success with. Add me on the gram; https://www.instagram.com/jedi_himself/ #bjjsubmissions #bjjwhitebelt #armbar

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about one hand collar choke?

This video covers introduction to essential submissions, the arm bar, the americana (key lock). It provides detailed instruction from Jedi Does Jiujitsu.

How long does it take to learn one hand collar choke?

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 one hand collar choke?

The Darce is a high-percentage front headlock submission favored by many advanced practitioners. Slide the arm underneath the opponent's armpits past their neck and clamp the hands together with the thumb between the fingers. Drive the elbows together and use shoulder pressure to roll them to their side, then slide the hand down to a figure-4 position. Maximize pressure by positioning the lower hand as close to the shoulder as possible and sprawl to finish.