Introduction to the Mount Armbar

The armbar is one of jiu-jitsu's most fundamental submissions. Mastery requires understanding not just the technique itself, but critical timing and proper setup sequence. This guide covers the complete armbar progression from mount position: when to attempt it, how to establish the setup, and how to execute the finish.

Establishing Mount Control

Before attempting any submission, the practitioner must first secure dominant mount position. Lock the feet under the opponent's buttocks with heels raised high, then drop the hips and torso over the solar plexus while lifting the hands off the ground. This distributes full body weight onto the opponent, preventing both upward escapes and elbow escapes while conserving the attacker's energy.

Creating Arm Elevation Through Facial Pressure

The opponent's arm must be raised by their own defensive reaction rather than direct force. In no-gi, apply two types of pressure: the "what time is it" grip (using the forearm blade against the neck and jaw) or direct shoulder pressure to the face. Both techniques force the opponent to raise their defending arm instinctively, creating the opening needed for the submission.

Transitioning to S-Mount Position

When the opponent's elbow rises in response to facial pressure, immediately drive your knee under their armpit to establish S-mount. The knee must reach at least head level; any lower position allows escape. The leg positioning forms an S-shape, with both feet hooked deeply underneath the opponent's armpits using the back of the foot rather than the palm.

Locking the Door

Once in S-mount, release the initial grip and use both hands to drive the opponent's head into their own shoulder while simultaneously pushing the hips forward. This creates a vise-like compression that prevents the opponent from rotating their head or sliding their elbow back to the mat. The locked position is the critical checkpoint before proceeding to the finish.

Creating Leg Lightness

To throw the leg over the opponent's head, the top leg must be weightless. Lean heavily onto the right knee, shifting all weight from left to right. This removes pressure from the left leg, making it light enough to reposition. The weight distribution shift is essential for executing clean leg placement without losing control.

Executing the Finish

With the left leg now light, step the foot over the opponent's head to replace the hand control. Sit down while maintaining tight control of the opponent's body. Only after securing this position should you release neck control and locate the opponent's wrist. Clamp both hands firmly on the wrist to prevent rotation, then lie back to complete the armbar.

How To Do the Armbar From Mount in Jiu Jitsu | Jiu Jitsu Tutorial

Matt Arroyo Jiu Jitsu

Armbar

3 min read·7 key moments·PT13M18S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Mount Armbar
•Establishing Mount Control
•Creating Arm Elevation Through Facial Pressure
•Transitioning to S-Mount Position

Get the Full Mount Attack Blueprint Course! http://mountattackblueprint.com/ Subscribe for more Jiu Jitsu Secrets to Help You Improve Your Jiu Jitsu FAST! _________________________________________________________________________ Master the armbar from the mount and level up your Jiu Jitsu game! In this video, I break down step-by-step how to execute one of the most effective BJJ submissions: the armbar. Whether you’re a white belt looking to add this classic move to your arsenal or a seasoned grappler polishing your fundamentals, this tutorial will help you dominate from the mount position. ✅ What you’ll learn in this video: • Key details to maintain control from the mount • How to isolate your opponent’s arm • Perfect technique to finish the armbar with precision • Common mistakes and how to avoid them The armbar is a cornerstone submission in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and mastering it can take your offense to the next level – whether you’re training for competition, self-defense, or just for fun. Who this video is for: • BJJ beginners learning core submissions • Intermediate grapplers fine-tuning their technique • Jiu Jitsu enthusiasts looking to dominate from top position 🔔 Subscribe for more BJJ tutorials, drills, and techniques! 👉 Share this video with your training partners and leave a comment letting me know what move you’d like to see next.

Related Techniques

Ashi-Gatame Hara-Gatame Hiza-Gatame Straight Armlock Waki-Gatame

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about armbar?

This video covers introduction to the mount armbar, establishing mount control, creating arm elevation through facial pressure. It provides detailed instruction from Matt Arroyo Jiu Jitsu .

How long does it take to learn 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.