Closed Guard using 2 on 1 Grip: Arm Bar - Gi

Dominate your opponents with this devastating 2-on-1 Armbar from Closed Guard! This short Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu video demonstrates a highly efficient submission taught by coach Jason Hall. This technique is centered on superior upper body control and leverage to execute a fast, high-percentage armbar submission. It helps develop precise breaking of posture, making it an essential submission for intermediate practitioners. This setup is a potent attack that can often be finished without the need for a major hip angle, increasing your submission rate.

This attack is a core BJJ submission drill designed to break your opponent's strong posture by locking down one arm and creating powerful leg frames.

How and When to Practice

Are you looking to improve your submission timing from the guard? This drill helps you counter the common defense of your opponent trying to posture up. Practice this movement to master the submission on an opponent whose arm is isolated. The key is to establish a deep cross-sleeve grip and control the shoulder with your leg. Use this technique 3–4 times per week to build the confidence required to attack the arm whenever the opportunity arises. This submission is effective for all body types, as the isolation and leg pressure provide all the necessary leverage, making it ideal for smaller players against larger opponents.

Steps: The 2-on-1 Armbar Sequence

1. Establish the Dominant 2-on-1 Control

Start in Closed Guard and secure the arm-isolating grip. Get a strong cross-sleeve grip (e.g., left hand on the opponent's right sleeve). Follow immediately with your other hand (right hand) to grip behind the opponent's left elbow. This 2-on-1 control is key for posture destruction.

2. Leg Isolation and Framing

  1. Once the arm is trapped, open your Closed Guard safely.
  2. Place the foot opposite your 2-on-1 grip (left foot) high on the opponent's right bicep to establish a powerful frame and maintain distance.
  3. The same-side leg (right leg) will then swing opponents hips, maintaining distance.

3. Finalizing the Armbar

  1. Your left leg (on the shoulder) creates a barrier, while your right foot (on the neck) isolates the head.
  2. While maintaining the strong elbow control with your right hand, extend your hips and apply pressure to the arm.
  3. The unique combination of the leg frame and the 2-on-1 grip allows you to straighten the arm for the armbar even when staying relatively square with your opponent.

How to Drill It

Drill this sequence in rounds of 45 seconds per side and focus on smooth, continuous movement. Start from the grip and transition all the way to the final hip extension. Focus on maintaining the leg control and tight hip connection at the point of submission.

Reps: 45 seconds per side

Focus: Maintaining elbow control and smooth hip-pivot for the finish.

When to Use

Use this high-percentage submission when your opponent is attempting to posture up or separate their hands in your closed guard. It's an excellent attack after successfully breaking their posture but before they stand up fully, forcing them to tap or enter a defensive scramble.

Why It Works

This technique works because it creates a double layer of isolation. First, the 2-on-1 grip isolates the arm from the body. Second, the shoulder/neck frames created by your legs lock the opponent's head and shoulder away from their isolated arm. This simultaneous isolation and leverage allows you to finish the straight armbar with minimal need for a hip-escape angle.

Common Mistakes

  1. Opening Guard Too Soon: Do not open your guard until the 2-on-1 control is completely secure and the opponent's posture is broken.
  2. Losing the Foot on the Bicep: If the foot on the bicep slips, the opponent can often use that space to pass your guard.
  3. Lack of Hip Extension: Failure to extend the hips fully will prevent the final joint lock, allowing the opponent time to defend.

Related Techniques & Chains

  1. Chain: Try to through these options to keep them guessing 2 on 1 grip to Leg Drag Sweep, 2 on 1 grip to Triangle.

FAQ

What is the most important detail for this 2-on-1 Armbar?

The most important detail is the simultaneous control you gain from the foot on the bicep and to keep your hand above the opponents elbow.

Difficulty

Intermediate | Advanced

In Action

Look at athletes like Roger Gracie and Clark Gracie who are famous for their high-percentage, fundamental Closed Guard submissions. The isolation and control principles in this move are core to their success. Try this move in your next sparring session, especially against someone who constantly tries to open your guard!