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Submission · Armlock · Intermediate
IntermediateArmlockGi & no-gi
Kesa armlock (arm over the thigh)
A submission (armlock) you hit from Scarf hold (Kesa Gatame). Intermediate level.
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Starts from
Get to one of these positions first, then look for the kesa armlock.
Key steps
Armlock. Tap early in training, and let go as soon as your partner taps.
- From kesa gatame, control their trapped arm by the wrist
- Lay the arm across your thigh, elbow on top of your leg and thumb pointing up
- Keep your head control and hips low so they can’t turn in
- Press the wrist down slowly so the elbow straightens over your thigh
If they defend it
They bend the arm: switch to the americana.
Common mistakes
Common mistake
Letting go of the head to work the arm, which lets them roll you.
Key details
- The elbow sits on top of your thigh, not beside it
- Go slowly: the lever is short and strong
How to defend it
Where you’ll face it
You’re most likely to get caught in it from these positions. Each one has its escapes.
Related positions & techniques
- Starts from
- Scarf hold (Kesa Gatame)
- Similar submissions
- Armbar (Juji Gatame)S-mount armbarBicep slicerChoi bar
- In courses
- Foundations V: Pins & mount
Safety and research
Read about itGrapplearts articlesBJJ Heroes
Practice
Quick checkKesa armlock (arm over the thigh) quick check4 questions
My notes
Saved automatically.