Kimura

Shoulder Lock from the Full Guard

Key Steps

How to

• Use a step-by-step approach to set up the grip from the guard, isolate the near arm, and form the figure-four around the arm.

Step 1: Setup and grip

• From the full guard, control the opponent's near wrist with your same-side hand. Thread your other hand behind their elbow and grab your own wrist to form a firm figure-four around their arm.

Step 2: Position and control

• Keep the elbow tight to the forearm and pull the arm across your chest. Use your legs to pin posture and angle your hips away from the trapped arm to maximize torque.

Step 3: Finish

• Pivot the hips and rotate the arm by pulling the wrist toward your hip while elevating your shoulder into their joint. Maintain the grip until the opponent taps or you transition to top control.

Application

• Gi/No-Gi: This technique works in both Gi and No-Gi. In Gi you can reinforce the grip with a lapel or belt; in No-Gi rely on wrist control and body positioning.
• Context: As a staple among jiu jitsu moves and bjj techniques, it teaches arm control and shoulder torque.
• Not beginner-friendly: practice slowly with a partner and instructor before resisting.

Mistakes

• Elbow flares or losing wrist control.
• Poor hip angle or failing to angle away from the trapped arm.
• Incomplete control, allowing defense.

Tips

• Keep the guard tight, hips mobile, and head up.
• Drill step-by-step with a cooperative partner before adding resistance.