Armbar From Closed Guard: The 2-on-1 Grip Setup

The armbar from closed guard is one of the most fundamental submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here's how we teach it using a 2-on-1 grip at Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness in Hayward.

Step by Step

1. Get control. Take a 2-on-1 grip on your opponent's elbow: one hand behind the elbow, one on top.
2. Bring the elbow to the center. Pull their elbow across to the middle of your body.
3. Foot on the hip. Put your same-side foot on their hip.
4. Bridge and turn. Lift your hips and clamp the opposite leg down behind their shoulders, turning your head and shoulders to the other side, like you're looking into their ear.
5. Leg over the head. Bring the leg from the hip over the top of their head and press down on the head and neck.
6. Finish. Slide your hand down to their thumb, keep their thumb up, and lift your hips for the tap.

Common Mistakes

• Not turning your body enough, which leaves space for them to pull out
• Loose knees. Pinch them together to trap the arm.
• Rushing the finish before the leg is over the head

More Armbar Options

Also try the armbar from high guard. If they pull their arm out, look for the triangle choke. To practice between classes, see how to practice BJJ at home.

Train BJJ in Hayward

Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness is at 24249 Hesperian Blvd in Hayward, CA, next to Southland Mall, and has been teaching in Hayward for about 16 years. We're a short drive from San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley and Union City. Our adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are beginner-friendly, and we also offer kids BJJ and fitness kickboxing.

Check the class schedule or reserve your first class.