How to Do the Americana from Mount in BJJ
Also known as: Keylock from mount, V-lock, Ude garami
The Americana from mount is one of the first submissions taught to beginners. When the opponent frames against your chest or places their arms on the mat, you isolate one arm and apply a figure-four lock to rotate the shoulder externally. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a fundamental part of every practitioner's arsenal.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Pin their wrist to the mat next to their head
- 2 Thread your other arm under their elbow and grip your own wrist
- 3 Keep their elbow pinned at a 90-degree angle
- 4 Slide their wrist toward their waist while keeping the elbow pinned
- 5 Use your body weight pressing down to prevent bridging
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not pinning the wrist to the mat before locking the grip
- ⚠️ Elbow not bent at 90 degrees reducing leverage
- ⚠️ Sitting too upright which invites the upa escape
- ⚠️ Using only arm strength instead of body weight and angle
- ⚠️ Applying the lock too slowly giving time to defend
🔄 Variations
- → Paint brush variation
- → Transition to armbar on defense
- → From side control
- → With head pressure
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Straighten the arm to prevent the lock
- → Bridge and trap the arm (upa)
- → Grab own lapel or hand
- → Elbow-knee escape while they focus on the arm
Track Your Americana from Mount Progress
Log every time you practice the Americana from Mount 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 Americana from Mount? ▼
The Americana from Mount 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 Americana from Mount 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 Americana from Mount? ▼
The Americana from Mount is typically executed from mount. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.