Kimura from Guard
Kimura attack from closed or open guard that isolates the wrist and elbow, then finishes or transitions to sweep and back takes.
joint lock
Overview
Kimura from guard isolates a posting or reaching arm with a figure-four grip so you can finish the shoulder, sweep, or take the back when the opponent rolls.
#Setup
- Break posture and force a post or reach that separates the elbow from the ribs.
- Control the wrist with one hand and thread your other arm over to lock a figure-four.
- Sit up into the shoulder line so your chest and hips remove slack before rotating.
#Execution
- Pin the elbow to your body and rotate the wrist toward their spine.
- Use your hips to create the angle — do not finish with arm strength alone.
- If they base hard, threaten the hip-bump sweep while keeping the figure-four.
#Finishing
- Keep the elbow glued; floating elbows escape easily.
- Follow the roll for a top kimura or back take if they turn away from the pressure.
⚠️
Safety Note
Kimura from guard stresses the shoulder quickly once the elbow is isolated. Rotate slowly along the shoulder line and release immediately on tap.
Primary Targets
- Shoulder
Key Concepts
- Figure-four first, rotation second.
- Hip bump and kimura share the same posting-arm reaction.
- The grip is useful even when the finish is not available.
Primary Entries
- Hip-bump sweep when the opponent posts a hand on the mat.
- Closed guard when they reach across to posture up.
- Failed armbar when you retain wrist control during the scramble.
Defenses & Counters
- Expect hand fighting and posture resets before the lock settles
- Watch for bridges or frames that create space under your chest
- If the angle dies, transition instead of forcing a stalled finish
Follow-Ups
- Transition to a linked submission when they defend the primary finish
- Re-secure the control position if the submission breaks
- Advance position when the defense opens a better pin
Training Drills
- Positional entries with progressive resistance
- Finish-or-transition rounds from the main control
- Partner tap drills emphasizing early recognition
Related Techniques
Deepen your study with complementary positions and attacks.
Summary
Kimura attack from closed or open guard that isolates the wrist and elbow, then finishes or transitions to sweep and back takes.