Why submissions matter for white belts
Submissions are one of the most exciting aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. They allow a smaller, weaker person to control and ultimately defeat a larger opponent through technique and leverage. As a white belt, understanding fundamental submissions is key to building a strong foundation in BJJ.
In most competitions, white belts are allowed to perform basic joint locks and chokes, but leg locks and twisting submissions are generally prohibited to reduce injury risk.
This guide covers seven essential submissions that every white belt should learn to become more effective on the mats.
1. Cross collar choke from mount
Learn the cross collar choke from mount
The Cross Collar Choke is one of the first submissions taught in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is a classic attack from the mount position. This technique demonstrates the effectiveness of grip fighting and proper pressure application.
Key Details:
- Secure deep cross grips in your opponent’s collar.
- Use your forearms to create pressure against their carotid arteries.
- Apply gradual force to secure the submission.
2. Armbar from closed guard
Learn the armbar from closed guard
The Armbar from Closed Guard is a must-know submission for white belts, teaching essential hip movement and control.
Key Details:
- Break your opponent’s posture by controlling their arm.
- Pivot your hips to create an angle.
- Extend their arm and apply pressure to the elbow joint.
Many argue that the armbar from guard is easiest submission in jiujitsu and most effective to execute.
3. Guillotine choke from closed guard
Learn the guillotine choke from closed guard
The Guillotine Choke is a powerful submission, especially against opponents who leave their neck exposed.
Key Details:
- Wrap your arm around your opponent’s neck.
- Secure a tight grip with your hands.
- Apply upward and forward pressure to force the tap.
4. Americana from mount
Learn the americana from mount
The Americana is a fundamental shoulder lock that utilizes control from the mount position.Key Details:
- Pin your opponent’s wrist to the mat.
- Use a figure-four grip to secure the arm.
- Apply torque to the shoulder for the submission.
5. Rear naked choke (RNC)
One of the highest-percentage submissions in BJJ and MMA, the Rear Naked Choke (RNC) is a game-changer when securing an opponent’s back.
Key Details:
- Secure back control with hooks.
- Slide one arm under their chin.
- Lock your arms and squeeze to cut off blood flow.
The RNC is often seen as a high-percentage submission that works at all levels, making it an essential tool for everyone.
6. Triangle from closed cuard
Learn the triangle from closed guard
The Triangle Choke is one of the most effective and versatile submissions from the guard. Thought in live sparring it's quite hard to get right and usually might just end in scramble.
Key Details:
- Control your opponent’s wrist and posture.
- Shoot your legs up to trap their head and arm.
- Squeeze your legs while pulling down on their head.
7. Kimura from side control
Learn the Kimura from side control
The Kimura is a powerful shoulder lock that works well from multiple positions like closed guard, but it is particularly effective from side control.
Key Details:
- Secure your opponent’s wrist with a strong grip.
- Lock in a figure-four grip to control their arm.
- Use leverage to apply pressure and force the tap.
Positional hierarchy and the importance of submissions
Understanding the positional hierarchy in BJJ is essential for knowing when and where to apply submissions. The best submissions typically come from dominant positions like mount, back control, and side control, where your opponent has fewer escape options.Sweeps and positional advancement should be your first priority, but once you gain control, knowing how to secure submissions efficiently is what will take your game to the next level.
What is the rarest submission in BJJ?
While the submissions listed above are fundamental, there are some rare BJJ submissions that are less commonly seen but still highly effective.
Examples include:
- Twister – A spinal lock made famous by Eddie Bravo.
- Gogoplata – A shin choke executed from rubber guard.
- Omoplata – A shoulder lock using the legs.
These techniques are effective but require higher-level setups and execution, making them less common at the white belt level. Remember that Twisters are forbidden from white belts in competitions. Your gym might have own rules, so check with instructor first.
Building a strong submission game
Learning these seven essential submissions will provide white belts with a solid foundation in joint locks and chokes. These techniques will teach you:
- Control – How to maintain dominant positions.
- Leverage – The importance of technique over strength.
- Timing – When to apply a submission for maximum effectiveness.
By understanding positional hierarchy and submission mechanics, you’ll be able to execute high-percentage finishes and progress effectively in your Jiu-Jitsu journey. For more detailed guides on submissions and techniques, check out our technique library.
