How to Use the Kimura Grip for Attacks and Control

The Kimura grip is one of the most versatile and effective tools in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, allowing practitioners to control opponents, set up submissions, and create dominant positions. At RollBliss, we recognize the value of mastering this grip to elevate your grappling game. Whether for submissions or positional control, the Kimura grip provides a dynamic advantage in both gi and no-gi scenarios.

Key Takeaways

• The Kimura grip is a powerful tool for both control and submissions.
• Proper positioning and leverage are essential to maximize effectiveness.
• Avoid common mistakes such as weak posture control and over-reliance on strength.
• RollBliss offers premium training gear to support your BJJ journey.

The Fundamentals of the Kimura Grip

What Is the Kimura Grip?

The Kimura grip is a figure-four grip in which one hand grabs the opponent's wrist while the other loops under the arm and secures its own wrist. This grip creates immense leverage, making it a powerful tool for breaking grips, transitioning, and attacking submissions.

Why Is the Kimura Grip So Effective?

• Leverage Advantage – The figure-four grip generates immense torque, making it difficult for opponents to resist.

• Positional Control – The grip allows you to dictate movement and restrict your opponent's options.

• Submission Versatility – Beyond the traditional shoulder lock, the Kimura can transition into arm attacks, sweeps, and back takes.

How to Set Up the Kimura Grip

1. Isolating the Arm

Isolating the opponent's arm is essential before securing the Kimura grip. This can be done from various positions, including closed guard, half guard, side control, and north-south.

• Break your opponent's posture and separate their arm from their body.

• Secure wrist control while ensuring they cannot retract their arm.

2. Securing the Figure-Four Grip

Once the arm is isolated, set up the figure-four grip by:

• Reaching under their arm with your opposite hand.

• Grabbing your wrist while maintaining a firm hold on their wrist.

• Keep your elbows tight to ensure a strong grip.

3. Applying Control or Submission

Depending on your position, you can use the Kimura grip to either advance control or finish the submission.

• From Guard: Use the grip to sweep or attack the shoulder lock.

• From Side Control: Step over the head to apply downward pressure and finish the submission.

• From Standing: Break your opponent's posture and drag them to the mat for control.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Mistake 1: Not Controlling the Opponent's Posture

• Fix: Use your legs and body positioning to prevent your opponent from posturing up and escaping.

Mistake 2: Allowing the Opponent's Arm to Slip Free

• Fix: Keep their arm pinned close to their body while maintaining constant tension on the grip.

Mistake 3: Relying on Strength Instead of Leverage

• Fix: Focus on rotating your entire body rather than forcing the submission with just arm strength.

Advanced Applications of the Kimura Grip

• Transition to the Back: Use the grip to control movement and take your opponent's back.

• Kimura Trap System: Utilize the grip to set up sweeps and arm attacks in a fluid sequence.

• Grip Switching: Adjust your grip based on resistance to maintain control and stay ahead of counters.

How RollBliss Supports Your Training

At RollBliss, we provide high-quality BJJ gear designed to support every aspect of your training. Whether you're drilling Kimura setups or refining your submission game, our durable gis and rash guards offer the flexibility and comfort you need to train effectively.

Conclusion

Mastering the Kimura grip is a game-changer in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, providing endless opportunities for control and attack. You can develop a more dynamic and dangerous game by refining your grip mechanics, positional awareness, and transitions. RollBliss supports your journey with high-quality gear that keeps you training at your best. Keep evolving, stay disciplined, and elevate your grappling skills with RollBliss!

FAQs

In what positions can I use the Kimura grip?

The Kimura grip can be used from guard, side control, north-south, and standing positions to break grips and control opponents.

How do I defend against the Kimura grip?

Preventing your arm from being isolated, maintaining proper posture, and countering early are key to defending against a Kimura attack.

Is the Kimura grip effective in no-gi BJJ?

Yes! The Kimura grip is highly effective in no-gi grappling due to its reliance on wrist and arm control rather than gi grips.