How to Do the Omoplata in BJJ
Also known as: Ashi-sankaku-garami
The omoplata is a shoulder lock using your legs. From guard, you swing your leg over your opponent's shoulder and use your hips to apply pressure, rotating their shoulder beyond its normal range of motion.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Control their arm and break their posture
- 2 Swing your leg over their shoulder
- 3 Sit up and control their waist/belt
- 4 Keep them flat by blocking the roll
- 5 Lean forward over their shoulder to finish
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not sitting up quickly
- ⚠️ Letting them roll through
- ⚠️ Not controlling the hips
- ⚠️ Finishing too early (they can stack)
- ⚠️ Not flattening them out
🔄 Variations
- → Omoplata sweep
- → Gogoplata transition
- → Monoplata
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Roll through
- → Posture up early
- → Stack and backstep
- → Cartwheel escape
Track Your Omoplata Progress
Log every time you practice the Omoplata 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 Omoplata? ▼
The Omoplata 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 Omoplata 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 Omoplata? ▼
The Omoplata 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.