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BeginnerCoach's PickAmericana from Mount
Ude Garami
Taught by:Adam FarnslerAndre GalvaoBernardo FariaGordon RyanJohn DanaherKeenan CorneliusNathan MerkleRob BiernackiRob ShifflerRoger Gracie
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About This Technique
Technique Description for "Americana from Mount"
The Americana, also known as the "Paintbrush Lock," is a classic submission technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu used frequently from the mount position. It's a shoulder lock where the practitioner's goal is to isolate the opponent's arm, applying pressure to manipulate the shoulder joint against its natural range of motion.
Japanese Name
Japanese Name: Ude Garami
Position: Mount
The Americana can be effectively executed from the Mount position.
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
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Establish Control in Mount
- Begin by solidifying your mount position over your opponent, keeping your knees wide for stability and your hips low to control their torso.
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Open Opponent's Defense
- Use your hands to clear any defensive frames your opponent is presenting. Secure wrist control by pushing one of your opponent's arms down to the mat.
- An effective way to distract them could be by threatening a choke or maintaining heavy pressure.
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Isolate the Arm
- Push your opponent's wrist towards the mat, pinning it beside their head with one of your hands.
- Ensure you are using your body weight slightly to help maintain control of the wrist.
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Create a Frame
- Form a "C" clamp around their wrist with your palm facing down, securing a solid grip.
- Slide your other hand underneath their elbow to grip your own wrist (forming a figure-four grip).
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Adjust Position and Apply Pressure
- Slide your opponent's elbow towards their ribs while gradually pulling their arm to a 90-degree angle.
- Keep your elbows tight, ensuring their wrist stays immobile on the mat.
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Finish the Submission
- Begin to move their wrist in an arc, towards their waist, simultaneously lifting their elbow.
- The motion mimics "painting" on the mat, hence the nickname "Paintbrush Lock."
- The pressure will force their shoulder into an unnatural position, encouraging a tap.
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Complete the Lock with Controlled Force
- Maintain a slow and controlled application of pressure, being aware of your training partner's safety and readiness to tap out.
Key Points to Remember
- Maintain your stability and base on top to prevent being easily swept.
- Isolating the opponent's arm and pinning the wrist is crucial to prevent any escapes.
- Ensure the opponent's elbow is close to their ribs and their wrist does not leave the mat.
- Remain conscious of your training partner’s verbal or physical cue to tap and apply pressure gradually and with care.
How to Execute
Americana from Mount Position
Performing the Americana from the mount position requires precision and control. Follow these detailed steps to execute the technique effectively:
Step 1: Establish the Mount Position
- •Secure the Mount: Begin by ensuring you have a solid mount position over your opponent. Your knees should be slightly spread and pressed into your opponent's sides to maintain balance.
- •Control the Head: Keep your weight centered and control your opponent's upper body by placing your hands on the mat or gripping their collar, if applicable.
Step 2: Isolate the Arm
- •Identify the Target Arm: Choose which arm you will attack. The Americana typically targets your opponent's arm that is closest to you.
- •Use Your Hands: Slide your hand (same side as the target arm) under your opponent's triceps and grab your own wrist, forming a figure-four lock with your arms.
Step 3: Secure the Figure-Four Grip
- •Control the Wrist: With your far hand, grip your opponent's wrist, ensuring your palm is facing down.
- •Establish the Figure-Four: Bring your near hand under your opponent's arm and grip your own wrist, forming a strong figure-four lock.
Step 4: Apply Pressure
- •Slide the Arm: Gently slide your opponent’s arm down towards the mat, ensuring their elbow is bent at a 90-degree angle.
- •Maintain Pressure: Keep your weight on your opponent’s chest and maintain control of their wrist.
Step 5: Execute the Submission
- •Lift the Elbow: Gradually lift your opponent's elbow off the mat while keeping their wrist pinned. This will create pressure on their shoulder joint.
- •Finish the Submission: Continue to apply pressure by lifting the elbow and pushing the wrist towards their head until they tap out.
Step 6: Adjust as Needed
- •Monitor Your Position: Ensure your mount remains stable throughout the submission attempt. Adjust your hips and balance if necessary to maintain control.
- •Respond to Resistance: If your opponent attempts to defend by straightening their arm or rolling, adjust your grip and maintain pressure.
Safety and Considerations
- •Apply Slowly: Always apply pressure slowly to allow your opponent time to tap and avoid injury.
- •Communicate: Ensure both you and your training partner communicate effectively to prevent injury.
- •Practice Control: Practice maintaining control and balance in the mount position to execute submissions efficiently.
Remember, practicing the Americana with a partner at a controlled pace will help improve your technique and timing.
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