Why Are Submissions Divided by Belt?

In BJJ, some submissions carry more risk than others. Certain techniques apply pressure to sensitive joints or require high-level control.

To protect students and encourage responsible progression, rules vary by belt. This structure:

• Keeps training safe

• Helps students focus on core skills

• Prepares students for competitions

• Builds technical awareness step by step

At Gracie Barra Paulton, we follow IBJJF guidelines. These rules are standard in most tournaments and provide a solid foundation for learning.

When Do Students Start Learning Submissions?

From the very beginning.

Even white belts learn essential submissions—like the armbar and triangle—in their first months. But more advanced moves, like heel hooks or certain neck cranks, are saved for later.

We focus on:

• Teaching safe and controlled application

• Respecting partners and knowing when to tap

• Developing a sense of timing and pressure

• Building strong fundamentals before moving forward

Every student learns at their own pace, with guidance from our certified instructors.

Submissions by Belt Level

Let’s break down which submissions are commonly allowed—and taught—at each belt level.

White Belt

White belts are beginners. The focus is on learning positions, escapes, and basic submissions.

Allowed submissions:

• Rear naked choke

• Guillotine choke

• Triangle choke

• Armbar

• Kimura

• Americana

• Ezekiel choke (gi only)

Not allowed:

• Leg locks (except straight ankle lock)

• Wrist locks

• Neck cranks

• Any twisting submissions

White belts should focus on control and defence, not just finishing. At Gracie Barra Paulton, we emphasise safety and smart progression in every class.

Blue Belt

Blue belts have more experience. They begin to explore deeper variations and transition between submissions more fluidly.

Added techniques:

• Omoplata

• Loop choke

• Bow and arrow choke (gi only)

• Straight ankle lock

• S-mount armbar

• Baseball bat choke (gi only)

Still not allowed:

• Kneebars

• Heel hooks

• Toe holds

• Bicep and calf slicers

Blue belts begin to refine their game and understand timing. Submissions become smoother and more connected to guard and passing strategies.

Purple Belt

This is an intermediate level where students begin to develop a personal style. They’re allowed more submissions and variations.

New techniques allowed:

• Toe holds (in adult divisions)

• Bicep and calf slicers

• Wrist locks

• Arm triangle choke

• Peruvian necktie

• More aggressive lapel chokes

Still restricted in competition:

• Heel hooks (in gi)

• Reaping the knee (in gi)

At this level, students must also show control. It’s not about strength, but technique and strategy.

Brown Belt

Brown belts are nearly black belts. They have high-level understanding and begin using all legal IBJJF submissions except heel hooks (in gi).

Now allowed:

• Kneebar

• More advanced leg attacks

• Complex transitions between submissions

• All previously listed techniques

Brown belts are expected to show maturity. That means applying submissions with care, especially when training with lower belts.

Black Belt

At black belt, nearly all techniques are legal—except those restricted by gi rules (like heel hooks).

Key additions:

• Full leg lock game

• Complex submission chains

• Transition-based submission setups

• Subtle grip changes and control dynamics

Black belts must also lead by example. At Gracie Barra Paulton, we encourage our advanced students to help others grow and represent the values of Jiu-Jitsu both on and off the mats.

Kids’ Submissions: Safety First

Children follow different rules. The focus is on movement, awareness, and basic control. Submissions are limited by age and belt level.

Most common submissions for kids:

• Rear naked choke

• Americana

• Armbar

• Triangle choke

• Collar chokes (in gi)

Prohibited for all youth divisions:

• Wrist locks

• Leg locks

• Neck cranks

• Guillotine chokes in younger age groups

• Any submission that targets the spine or knees

At Gracie Barra Paulton, kids are taught how to tap early, apply pressure slowly, and respect every training partner.

Where to Train Submissions Safely

If you’re looking for a place to train submissions with control and confidence, Gracie Barra Paulton is your best choice.

📍 Located in Paulton, our academy offers:

• Certified instructors with years of experience

• Classes for all ages and skill levels

• Structured progression by belt

• A safe and respectful learning environment

We follow the Gracie Barra curriculum—built on tradition, technique, and personal growth.

What to Expect in Class

Every submission taught at Gracie Barra Paulton includes:

• Warm-up and body prep

• Clear technical breakdown

• Partner drills with control

• Live positional training

• Guidance on rules by belt and age

We build technical students—not reckless fighters.