Kimura Escape

Manage injuries →Position map Connects to 7 positions across 3 relationshipsOpen in the map →123456789←Escape route from

This page covers escape from the kimura — the shoulder lock that applies internal rotation and extension to the shoulder joint — the forearm driven behind the back toward the opposite shoulder blade, loading the posterior capsule and the posterior rotator cuff. The kimura is one of the most versatile submissions in no-gi grappling because it is both a submission and a positional control tool (the kimura trap system). This means a partially applied kimura is often used as a position rather than a finishing submission — the defender must understand that a grabbed kimura does not always mean an immediate submission attempt, and may signal a positional advance.

For the attack and kimura trap system, see: /technique/kimura (kimura hub).

Also known asUde garami escape(Japanese — entangled arm lock)

Early Stage — before the figure-four grip is established

The kimura requires the figure-four grip — the opponent’s hand gripping their own wrist around the defender’s arm. Before this grip is established, the primary defence is elbows in. The isolated elbow is the kimura’s entry requirement — an elbow connected to the body cannot be gripped. In no-gi, grip your thigh or shorts if the opponent is reaching for the arm — this prevents the arm from being isolated and the figure-four from being established.

Committed Stage — figure-four is established but rotation not yet applied

Once the figure-four is established, the walk the wall technique is the primary mechanic. The mat surface prevents the rotation. Gripping the thigh continues to delay. Roll into the kimura counter is available when there is enough mechanical play to execute the figure-four reversal.