This week on Gracie Barra Blog we are looking at the Kimura not only as a submission attack but also in more ways that we can apply the grip in various positions.
Most of us think of the Kimura as purely a submission attack on the opponent’s shoulder – and the it IS indeed a high percentage submission for sure.
However, it may be thought of as more of a position than merely a single submission. It may be employed as a takedown, a positional escape, a guard pass, a sweep, a control position or a means to transition to better positions like back mount.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways the it’s used both as a submission and in some other strategic ways by some of the best Gracie Barra black belt instructors.
1) Kimura as a Control Position
Have you ever thought about using it as a pinning or control position as opposed to simply a submission attack? This Side Mount Kimura system with Prof. Flavio Almeida shows how we can use the grip to immobilize our opponent from top.
2) Attack from Side Control with Kimura
The Kimura as submission is how most jiu-jistu students think of it. Prof. Marcos Perez from GB Brisas, Panama shows some details on how to set up the it from side control.
3) Rolling Kimura from Open Guard
Kimura used as a guard pass. Prof. Victor Estima shows how he uses the it to pass the seated guard of his opponent.
4) Back Take From kimura Grip
In this technique from Gracie Barra Long Island, we use the Kimura as a means to transition to the most dominant position in the jiu-jitsu – the back mount.
5) Setup from knee on belly / Kimura a partir a Joelho na barriga
This is a great way to use action / reaction to setup the attack. When Prof. Carlos Liberi applies the pressure of his knee on his opponent’s abdomen, the reaction of pushing the knee creates and opening for the grip.
What is your favorite way to use the Kimura?
Credits: Mark Mullen
Gracie Barra Black belt based in Asia
