How to Do the North-South Arms Pinned in BJJ
A controlling variation of north-south where you pin both of the opponent's arms using your arms or bodyweight. With arms pinned, they cannot frame, making escape extremely difficult.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Pin their arms with your elbows or armpits
- 2 Spread weight broadly over their chest
- 3 Do not allow them to free either arm
- 4 Use arm control to set up submissions
- 5 Transition to chokes or kimuras from pin
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Only pinning one arm
- ⚠️ Allowing wrists to slip free
- ⚠️ Not maintaining heavy pressure
- ⚠️ Not transitioning to attacks
- ⚠️ Staying without advancing position
🔄 Variations
- → Double armpit pin
- → Elbow pin control
- → To kimura from pin
- → To choke from pin
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Fight wrists free immediately
- → Bridge when arms are pinned
- → Turn aggressively to side
- → Knee-to-elbow recovery
Track Your North-South Arms Pinned Progress
Log every time you practice the North-South Arms Pinned and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the North-South Arms Pinned? ▼
The North-South Arms Pinned is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The North-South Arms Pinned works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the North-South Arms Pinned? ▼
The North-South Arms Pinned is typically executed from north south. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.