How to Do the Armbar from Guard in BJJ
Also known as: Juji-gatame
The armbar from closed guard is one of the first submissions taught in BJJ. By controlling your opponent's arm and pivoting your hips, you hyperextend the elbow joint. It's a fundamental technique that teaches essential concepts like hip movement and angle creation.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Control the arm at the wrist and above the elbow
- 2 Put your foot on their hip and pivot your hips out
- 3 Swing your leg over their head
- 4 Pinch your knees together trapping the arm
- 5 Lift your hips while pulling the wrist down
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not controlling posture first
- ⚠️ Crossing ankles over the face (easy escape)
- ⚠️ Not cutting enough angle with hips
- ⚠️ Thumb pointing wrong direction (not up)
- ⚠️ Lifting hips before leg is over head
🔄 Variations
- → High guard armbar
- → Armbar from overhook
- → Hip bump to armbar
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Stack and posture
- → Hitchhiker escape
- → Pull arm out (early)
- → Stack and jump over
Track Your Armbar from Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the Armbar from Guard 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 Armbar from Guard? ▼
The Armbar from Guard is typically introduced at the white belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. The beginning of the BJJ journey. Focus on survival, basic positions, and fundamental movements.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Armbar from Guard 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 Armbar from Guard? ▼
The Armbar from Guard is typically executed from closed guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.