Kimura
A shoulder lock that doubles as a positional control tool, linking guard, side control, and back control.
Note
This article is in progress. Check back soon for the full content.
Overview
Kimura as a positional control tool, not just a submission
The kimura grip as a hub
Connects closed guard, half guard, side control, N-S, back control, passing, standing.
Anatomy of the kimura
Core Mechanics and Concepts
Alignment and the kimura
The kimura grip (figure-four mechanics)
Key positional battle: elbow placement
Kimura grip vs seatbelt (when to switch)
T-Kimura (Kimura Trap)
Entries
- From back control
- From passing guard
- From half guard
- From single leg counter
Dilemma: getting on top vs taking the back
Attacks with bottom leg
Attacks with top leg
Control and position
Attacks
- Back take
- Sit up to armbar
- Sit up to back take
North South Kimura
Safety
Submission: pulling kimura vs pushing kimura
Side triangle vs kimura dilemma
Kimura from Bottom
Defense and Escapes
- Passing vs kimura
- Escaping T-Kimura
- Escaping N-S kimura
Summary
Coaching Guide
Common entries and sequences
Kimura from closed guard. The guard player stuffs the opponent's wrist to the mat and sits up, reaching over the opponent's shoulder to lock the figure-four grip. Falls back, shifting hips to the side for a better angle.
Kimura trap as takedown defense (single leg counter). When an opponent shoots for a single leg, the defender leans over and secures a kimura grip on the far arm. Often leads to T-Kimura position, used to off-balance or roll to top.
Rolling kimura from top half guard. As the bottom player props up on their elbow to escape or sweep, the top player pins the wrist and rolls over the opponent's shoulder into T-Kimura or N-S position.
Kimura to back take transition. From T-Kimura or top control, the attacker uses the grip to rotate the opponent's torso. By spinning behind and heisting up, the attacker throws in hooks while the kimura grip pins the shoulder.
Kimura from side control and north south. From side control, the attacker isolates the arm and transitions to N-S kimura position for the finish.
Common problems and cues
Recommended games
Resources
- Kimura, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- T-Kimura, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- Kimura Escapes, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- North/South Kimura, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- Kimura from Passing, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- Half Guard Kimura, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- Hip Step Kimura, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)
- Tarikoplata, Lachlan Giles (Submeta)