How To Hit A Basic Arm Lock From The Guard: Part 2

The Technical Variation To Getting The Basic Armlock From The Guard

In a previous post, we talked about how to hit a basic armlock from the guard. Today, we’re going to elaborate on this topic and give you another way to get that same basic armlock from the guard.

The difference here is that this move is more technical than the first one, and in some sense, better since you can use this move in more situations other than the one described here.

The key difference is that in this variation, instead of under hooking the leg, you’ll be grabbing the wrist and framing the face. This variation is great for when you anticipate a punch.

Begin with the opponent in the closed guard position.

Step 1: Grab the wrist and frame the face

Like before, assume that your opponent is frustrated when in your guard and tries to choke you with his hands on your throat. (Note: this move actually works in situations other than this, but this position is a good place to start for a beginner).

Reach your arm across his arm and grab his opposite wrist. Then, with your free hand, reach up and frame his face by putting your other hand on his opposite shoulder. Now, your grip should be across one arm and grabbing his wrist, with your other hand grabbing across his shoulder.

Step 2: Release the Closed Guard, and Push Off The Floor To Turn Your Body To A Perpendicular Position And Swing Your Leg Over His Head

Once you have your grip, release the closed guard and place your foot either on the floor or on his hip to help you turn sideways. Use the foot that is on the same side as the wrist your grabbed. Swivel your body so that you are in perpendicular position relative to the opponent.

Bring one of your legs (the leg that you pushed off of to help you turn) over his head and down on the side of his neck. With your other leg, clamp down across his back.

Step 3: Clamp Your Legs Down Across Your Opponent’s Back Side, Hold The Wrist, And Lift Your Hips To Submit Your Opponent

From here, curl both lets down to clamp him down so that he doesn’t posture up.

From this position, grab his wrist with both hands, make sure his thumb is pointed up, and slowly raise your hips to finish the lock.

Summary Of The Technical Variation Of The Basic Armlock From The Guard:

A very important detail of the arm lock is to make sure your opponent’s thumb is pointed up. This will guarantee that you are bending his elbow against the joint when you finish your armlock. Like I said earlier, this armlock variation is more technical but works well when your opponent’s leg is not available for under hooking, or you are just worried that under hooking the leg might open you up to a punch to the face.

This basic armlock from the guard is a great move for both street fights and tournaments. As mentioned, it is especially effective if your opponent is in your guard attempting a choke, but can also work simply by your grabbing your opponent’s wrist and going for it.

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