Mastering The Art Of How To Do An Armbar: Snap, Crack, Pop

Introduction to the Armbar

The armbar, also known as ‘juji-gatame’, is a classic submission technique used in various martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). It’s a move that focuses on hyperextending the opponent’s elbow joint by using your own body as a lever. This technique, while simple in theory, requires precision, timing, and a deep understanding of body mechanics to execute effectively.

The History of the Armbar

The armbar has a rich history, tracing its roots back to the ancient martial arts of Japan. It was a technique used by the Samurai on the battlefield and later incorporated into the practice of Judo in the late 19th century. From there, it made its way into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and eventually into the world of MMA, where it has become a staple submission move.

Importance of the Armbar in Martial Arts

The armbar is a fundamental move in martial arts for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a versatile technique that can be applied from various positions, including the mount, guard, and side control. Secondly, it’s a powerful submission move that can end a match instantly if executed correctly. Lastly, mastering the armbar can significantly improve your understanding of leverage and body mechanics, enhancing your overall martial arts skills.

Anatomy of an Armbar

knowing how to do an armbar involves several key components. The attacker uses their legs to control the opponent’s upper body and one arm, positioning their hips close to the opponent’s elbow joint. The attacker’s arms secure the opponent’s arm, with the wrist in the crook of the elbow. By arching their hips upward while keeping the opponent’s arm straight, the attacker applies pressure on the elbow joint, causing intense pain and forcing the opponent to submit, or allow their arm to get broken.

How to Do an Armbar

Here’s a basic guide on how to do an armbar from the closed guard position:

1. Control Your Opponent: Start by controlling your opponent’s posture from the closed guard position. Grip one of your opponent’s arms and secure it to your chest.
2. Position Your Legs: Pivot on your back and swing one leg around your opponent’s head. Your other leg should clamp down across your opponent’s back, preventing them from escaping.
3. Secure the Arm: Ensure the arm you’re attacking is gripped securely with the wrist in the crook of your elbow. Your opponent’s thumb should be pointing upward.
4. Execute the Armbar: Arch your hips upward while keeping your opponent’s arm straight. This applies pressure on the elbow joint, leading to a successful armbar.

Remember, practice makes perfect. It’s important to drill this move regularly and under the supervision of a qualified instructor to ensure that you know exactly how to do an armbar with proper technique and safety.

Common Mistakes When Doing an Armbar

While the armbar is a powerful technique, it’s easy to make mistakes when learning. Some common errors include not controlling the opponent’s posture, failing to secure the arm properly, and not applying pressure with the hips. Avoiding these mistakes will increase your chances of successfully executing an armbar.

Armbar Variations

There are several variations of the armbar, each with its own unique setup and application. Some popular variations include the flying armbar, the spinning armbar, and the S-mount armbar. Exploring these variations can add depth to your martial arts repertoire and keep your opponents guessing.