Why Submissions Matter

Submissions are what set BJJ apart. They let you:

• End a confrontation without striking

• Control stronger or larger opponents

• Defuse dangerous situations with calm

• Develop mental focus and discipline

They also help build confidence and sharpen your problem-solving on the mats.

When Should You Start Learning Submissions?

Right away.

Even beginner students at Gracie Barra Tampa learn simple, safe submissions early on. We teach:

• Proper mechanics

• When to apply and release

• How to tap and protect yourself

• The importance of control over force

Progress is gradual and guided. Everyone learns at their own pace.

Who Can Learn to Submit?

Everyone.

You don’t need to be strong, fast, or flexible to apply a clean submission. That’s the beauty of Jiu-Jitsu.

Submissions are ideal for:

• Adults of all ages

• Children learning discipline and focus

• Women seeking practical self-defence

• Beginners building confidence

• Competitors sharpening their game

At Gracie Barra Tampa, we adapt techniques to suit every student’s needs and goals.

Most Common and Effective Jiu-Jitsu Submissions

These are the most used and trusted submissions you’ll learn at our academy.

1. Rear Naked Choke

A blood choke applied from the back that cuts off circulation to the brain. No use of the gi is needed.

Why it’s effective:

• Safe and clean

• Very difficult to escape

• Useful for self-defence and competition

It’s one of the most respected finishes in Jiu-Jitsu.

2. Armbar

Targets the elbow joint. Can be applied from the mount, back, or guard.

Benefits:

• Great for beginners

• Relies on hip movement, not strength

• Teaches control and timing

It’s a must-know for all belt levels.

3. Triangle Choke

Uses the legs to trap the neck and one arm. Applied mainly from the guard position.

Why it works:

• Excellent for smaller athletes

• High-percentage submission in competition

• Easy to transition into from sweeps

Triangle chokes reward patience and good angles.

4. Guillotine Choke

A front choke applied when the opponent drops their head. Works well in both gi and no-gi.

Strengths:

• Quick and effective

• Perfect for takedown defence

• Great in real-life self-defence scenarios

It’s one of the fastest submissions you can learn.

5. Kimura Lock

A shoulder lock using a figure-four grip on the opponent’s arm.

Why it’s popular:

• Works from top and bottom

• Leads to sweeps and transitions

• Offers strong control without risk

We teach it early and refine it through all levels.

6. Americana Lock

Another shoulder lock, applied from mount or side control.

Perfect for:

• Beginners learning top control

• Understanding leverage

• Early confidence building

It’s one of the first submissions many students master.

7. Bow and Arrow Choke (Gi Only)

A powerful collar choke from the back using the lapel and body rotation.

Why competitors love it:

• Strong and fast finish

• Hard to escape once set

• Clean technique with high success rate

It’s one of the most used gi chokes at advanced levels.

Where to Train Submissions Safely in Tampa

At Gracie Barra Tampa, our instructors teach every submission step by step. We focus on:

• Safety and respect

• Controlled application

• Clean, technical execution

• Proper drilling and live training

Whether you’re new to martial arts or have trained before, you’ll find world-class instruction here.

What to Expect in Submission Classes

A typical class includes:

• Warm-up and movement drills

• Detailed technique breakdown

• Drilling with a partner

• Positional sparring

• Live training (optional by level)

We make sure everyone feels supported and challenged—without pressure or ego.

Are Submissions Useful in Self-Defence?

Absolutely.

Submissions let you:

• Control a threat without causing harm

• Escape dangerous holds

• Defuse situations without needing to strike

• Stay calm and make smart decisions

That’s why Jiu-Jitsu is trusted by law enforcement, military, and everyday people.