Kimura

Side Control Shoulder Lock

Key Steps

Setup and Grip

• In side control, secure the near wrist with your bottom hand and keep the elbow tight to their torso.
• Thread your top arm under their near arm and grip your own wrist behind their back to form a tight figure-four around the arm.

Isolation and Control

• Keep your chest over their arm and pin the wrist to your hip to prevent escapes.
• Shift your hips slightly to maintain pressure; keep the elbow close to their body to maximize torque.

Finish

• Rotate the arm by lifting the elbow toward your hip while maintaining the grip, then apply controlled pressure to complete the submission.
• Re-check base and grip if the opponent shifts or defends, staying patient rather than forcing a quick transition.

Application

Goals and Options

• A primary submission from top control in jiu jitsu moves that isolates the arm and creates leverage on the shoulder.
• Works in Gi and No-Gi; Gi provides additional sleeve-based anchors, while No-Gi relies on precise wrist control and body position.

Transitions

• If defended, shift to back control or another attack while keeping the arm trapped to maintain pressure.

Mistakes

Common Errors

• Losing control of the near wrist or allowing the elbow to escape the frame.
• Insufficient hip pressure or a loose grip, creating space for escape.
• Telegraphing the finish or using a wide, jerky motion instead of a controlled rotation.

Fixes

• Re-secure the grip, drop hips, keep the elbow tight, and re-align your angle before reapplying pressure.

Tips

Drilling

• Drill the grip and hip placement from stable side control with a cooperative partner.

Strategy

• Use the setup to threaten other bjj techniques and to control pace, ensuring safety while pursuing the tap.