Arm Triangle

Difficulty: Intermediate

Gi/No-Gi: Both

Category: SubmissionPosition: Full Mount

Submissions from the Full Mount

Key Steps

Step-by-step Setup

  • From the mount, pin the opponent's near arm to their chest to limit defense.
  • Keep hips heavy and head on the side to control angle.

Step-by-step Grip and Formation

  • Thread your far arm around their head and under their trapped arm; lock your hands to form a secure circle around neck and arm.
  • Position your head to the side of the trapped arm and settle the angle so your forearm sits across the neck.

Step-by-step Finish

  • Drop your hips, tighten the forearm across the neck, and finish with a blood choke by pulling your hands to your chest.
  • Hold until tap or referee interruption; release safely.

Application

Gi vs No-Gi Considerations

  • Gi: use fabric for extra control (lapel/sleeve) to reinforce grips.
  • No-Gi: rely on forearm, head position, and body weight; no fabric grip.

When to Apply in a Match

  • After mount control and isolating the arm, especially when the opponent defends their neck.

Transition and Safety

  • If defended, switch to side control and reset before reattempting.

Mistakes

Common Isolation Mistakes

  • Not pinning the arm or leaving space for defense.

Pressure and Angle Mistakes

  • Poor head/shoulder alignment or shallow angle.

Defense from Opponent

  • They post and frame, escaping the choke.

Tips

Drilling Progressions

  • Start with light resistance, then add resistance while maintaining control.

Safety and Submissions Control

  • Tap early if uncertain; practice safe release.

Beginner-friendly Notes

  • Intermediate by design, but clear step-by-step coaching helps beginners grasp the concepts.

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