Why Submissions Are Important in BJJ

Submissions allow a smaller person to defeat a stronger one using leverage and technique. They end the match without strikes, making BJJ ideal for self-defence, competition, and fitness.

The main goals of submissions are:

• To neutralise an opponent

• To win without causing harm

• To teach control under pressure

• To develop calm and focus in tough situations

At Gracie Barra Paulton, we focus on safe, controlled application of every submission—especially when teaching children and beginners.

When Should You Start Learning Submissions?

From your very first class. Beginners often think submissions are only for advanced students, but that’s not true. At Gracie Barra Paulton, we introduce basic submissions from day one.

We teach:

• Safe entry and exit from every position

• How to control an opponent before attempting a submission

• When to apply pressure and when to release

• The importance of tapping early and respecting your training partner

Submissions should be smooth and controlled—not rushed or forced.

Who Can Learn to Submit Effectively?

Everyone. Submissions in Jiu-Jitsu don’t depend on size or strength. They rely on:

• Timing

• Position

• Leverage

• Accuracy

That means anyone can learn to submit an opponent—even if they are older, smaller, or less athletic.

At Gracie Barra Paulton, we adapt training to suit the needs of each student. We guide everyone at their own pace.

Most Common Submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Here are the top submissions every student should learn:

1. Rear Naked Choke

This choke is applied from the back. It cuts off blood flow to the brain by compressing the carotid arteries.

Why it works:

• Hard to escape once secured

• No use of gi or clothing

• Effective in sport and self-defence

It’s one of the safest and most effective chokes in all of martial arts.

2. Armbar

The armbar is a joint lock that hyperextends the elbow. It can be applied from guard, mount, or back control.

Key benefits:

• Works against stronger opponents

• Teaches control and hip movement

• Easy to drill for beginners

Timing and precision are more important than strength.

3. Triangle Choke

The triangle choke uses the legs to trap the opponent’s neck and one arm. It’s a signature move from the guard position.

Why it’s effective:

• Combines control and leverage

• Hard to defend when timed well

• Common in both gi and no-gi

It’s especially effective for smaller practitioners.

4. Guillotine Choke

This front headlock submission is applied when the opponent lowers their head. It’s quick and powerful.

Useful because:

• Can be done standing or on the ground

• Works in gi, no-gi, and self-defence

• Excellent counter to takedowns

It’s also easy to learn and apply with proper instruction.

5. Kimura Lock

The kimura is a shoulder lock using a figure-four grip on the opponent’s arm. It creates pressure on the shoulder joint.

Strengths:

• Can be used from many positions

• Combines control and submission

• Leads to sweeps and transitions

It teaches grip strength and body positioning.

6. Americana Lock

This shoulder lock is usually done from the mount. It works well against newer opponents and is easy to understand.

Advantages:

• Teaches control from top positions

• Great for beginners

• Requires good timing and balance

It’s also known as the keylock or figure-four armlock.

7. Bow and Arrow Choke (Gi only)

This powerful choke uses the opponent’s lapel and your body rotation to apply pressure.

Why competitors love it:

• High percentage finish in gi competitions

• Can be set up quickly from the back

• Hard to escape when done correctly

It’s a great way to finish with precision and control.

Where Can You Learn Submissions Safely?

Right here at Gracie Barra Paulton.

We offer:

• Structured classes for all levels

• Clean, safe, and supportive training space

• Certified Gracie Barra instructors

• Programmes for kids, adults, and competitors

Our curriculum is designed to teach the principles behind every submission, not just the steps.

We believe students should understand:

• Why a move works

• When to use it

• How to apply it safely

That’s what creates true progress on the mats.

What to Expect in a Submission-Focused Class

Each class at Gracie Barra Paulton includes:

• Warm-up and movement drills

• Technical breakdown of a submission

• Partner practice and control work

• Positional training and live rolling

• Cool down and feedback

Students learn to flow between positions, maintain control, and apply submissions with confidence.

Submissions and Self-Defence

Many of these submissions also work well in real-world situations. Jiu-Jitsu teaches students to stay calm, control threats, and protect themselves without violence.

At Gracie Barra Paulton, we train our students to:

• Recognise danger early

• Control an opponent without striking

• Avoid escalation

• Escape safely and responsibly

This makes submissions useful both on the mat and in daily life.