The key lock, often referred to as the Kimura in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), is a highly effective upper body submission that targets the opponent's shoulder joint. It's achieved by isolating one of your opponent's arms and applying rotational force to create immense pressure on their shoulder, forcing them to tap.
How to Execute a Key Lock (Kimura) in BJJ
Executing a successful key lock involves precise grip, control, and leverage. The goal is to isolate the arm and rotate the shoulder in a way that exceeds its natural range of motion.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Key Lock
Follow these steps to apply a key lock effectively:
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Isolate the Opponent's Arm:
- From a dominant position (like side control or mount), establish control over your opponent's body to prevent them from moving away easily.
- Identify an opportunity where one of their arms is extended or can be easily trapped. This is crucial for initiating the submission.
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Establish the Initial Grips:
- With your near hand (the hand closer to your opponent's head), reach over and grab their shoulder. This grip establishes initial control over the upper arm.
- With your far hand (the hand further from their head), grasp your opponent's wrist. Your palm should typically face downwards, securing a firm grip.
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Position the Elbow:
- Once you have the shoulder and wrist grips, guide your opponent's arm so that their elbow sits right next to their ear. This creates the optimal angle for applying the lock and prevents them from easily pulling their arm away. It compresses their arm against their head, enhancing control.
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Form the Figure-Four Grip:
- While maintaining the grip on their wrist with your far hand, reach that same hand back and grab your own wrist (the one that is gripping your opponent's shoulder).
- This creates the characteristic "figure-four" or "Kimura" grip, which is essential for maximizing leverage and power in the submission. This grip locks your hands together, making it incredibly difficult for your opponent to break free.
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Apply the Finishing Mechanics:
- With the figure-four grip securely established, there are two primary actions to apply the finishing pressure:
- Elevate the Elbow: Gently lift your opponent's elbow upwards, guiding it towards their head. This motion begins to rotate their shoulder.
- Rotate the Wrist Downward: Simultaneously, rotate your opponent's wrist downwards towards their waist.
- The combination of these two movements creates a powerful, twisting pressure on the opponent's shoulder joint, leading to a quick tap. The pressure should be applied smoothly and incrementally, always being mindful of your training partner's safety.
- With the figure-four grip securely established, there are two primary actions to apply the finishing pressure:
Key Positions for Key Lock Attacks
The key lock can be initiated from various positions in BJJ, making it a versatile submission.
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| Side Control | One of the most common and effective positions. From here, you have excellent control over their body and can easily isolate an arm for the key lock. |
| Mount | When your opponent tries to defend from mount by posting an arm or reaching, it creates openings for a key lock. |
| Closed Guard | If your opponent posts an arm inside your guard, you can often trap and attack it. It requires careful hip movement and control. |
| Open Guard | Similar to closed guard, the key lock can be set up from open guard variations if the opponent's arm becomes isolated during scrambles or grip fighting. |
| Half Guard | From top half guard, especially when your opponent's arm is trapped or exposed, a key lock can be a potent option. |
| Back Control | While less common as a primary attack, transitions from back control can sometimes lead to key lock opportunities if the opponent tries to use an arm to escape or defend. |
Tips for Success and Safety
- Maintain Tight Control: Always maintain strong control over your opponent's body and the arm you are attacking. Slack in your grips or position can allow them to escape.
- Focus on the Shoulder: Remember, the target is the shoulder joint, not just the arm. Ensure your leverage applies rotational force to the shoulder.
- Smooth and Gradual Pressure: Apply the submission slowly and with increasing pressure. This gives your opponent time to tap before injury occurs.
- Anticipate Escapes: Be aware of common key lock escapes (e.g., turning into you, bridging) and be prepared to adjust your position or transition to another attack.
- Protect Your Own Arm: When applying the figure-four grip, ensure your arm is not exposed to counter-submissions.
- Always Prioritize Safety: In training, always release the submission immediately when your partner taps. Aggressive or sudden movements can lead to serious injury.
The key lock is a fundamental submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that, when executed correctly, is incredibly powerful. Understanding its mechanics and practicing it with precision will greatly enhance your submission game.
