Straight Armbar

From Side Control: Arm Lock to the Elbow

Key Steps

Step 1: Position and isolate

• From side control, establish a solid base and pin the opponent's near shoulder with your chest while isolating the far arm. Secure the wrist with your far hand and keep the elbow tucked to your ribs.

Step 2: Create the angle and entry

• Pivot your hips to face the head-side, slide your leg closest to their head across their body, and swing it over their arm to create the lever. Keep the other leg posted to block hip movement.

Step 3: Finish the lock

• Drop your hips, extend the elbow by driving your hips forward, and maintain a tight grip on the wrist while controlling the opponent's head. Finish with a controlled, decisive hyperextension.

Application

• How to apply: This technique works in Gi or No-Gi. In Gi, use the grip on the wrist and the torso to stabilize; in No-Gi, rely on head, hip pressure, and a tight wrist control. Use step-by-step progression with a cooperative partner before live sparring.

Mistakes

• Poor head control or letting the arm post, allowing escapes.
• Losing hip pressure or not finishing with hip drive.
• Creating insufficient angle or failing to secure the arm.
• Not keeping the elbow tight to the body, risking submission reversal.

Tips

• Keep your frames tight; chest over torso to limit defense.
• Drill slowly: build the angle before speed.
• Prioritize safety: stop immediately if joints feel endangered.
• Use Gi grips to augment control when available; focus on pressure and timing in No-Gi.