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BeginnerMonoplata
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About This Technique
Monoplata Technique
The Monoplata is an advanced submission technique utilized in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It's a shoulder lock that capitalizes on an opponent's arm being trapped at an angle, exerting pressure on the shoulder joint. This technique can flow into or from other submissions, making it versatile and lethal in grappling. Below is a detailed guide on performing the Monoplata.
Position: Closed Guard
Top or Bottom: Bottom
Japanese Name: N/A
Steps to Perform the Monoplata
Step 1: Establish Closed Guard
- Controlling from Guard:
- Ensure your legs are wrapped securely around your opponent from the closed guard position.
- Use your hands to control your opponent's posture, holding their collar or head.
Step 2: Isolate the Arm
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Break Posture:
- Pull your opponent’s head down with both hands to break their posture.
- Overhook one of your opponent's arms (left or right arm) firmly, keeping it tight against your chest.
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Pass the Arm Across:
- Use your opposite hand to assist the isolated arm across their body towards your own belly.
Step 3: Adjust the Position for Submission
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Angling Your Body:
- Open your guard momentarily and rotate your body at an angle.
- Shrimp your hips out to one side to make your angle.
- Bring your free leg across the back of your opponent's neck and shoulder.
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Secure the Arm:
- Pull their trapped arm down using your body camber.
- Optionally, trap their wrist between your head and shoulder for added control.
Step 4: Transition to Monoplata
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Lacing the Leg:
- With your top leg across their neck and shoulder, pressure downwards.
- Lace your other leg under their armpit, creating a figure-four configuration with your legs.
- Your opponent’s head should be pinned against their arm by your leg during this step.
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Further Control:
- Use your hands to secure their body or stabilize yourself using the mat as a base.
Step 5: Applying the Final Lock
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Applying Pressure:
- Gradually extend your hips and press your top knee downward to exert pressure on the arm and shoulder joint.
- Ensure your leg configuration remains secure to maintain control and avoid escape.
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Finish the Submission:
- As the lock is applied, the pressure should force your opponent to tap. If not, you may need to adjust slightly for maximum leverage.
Notes:
- Safety: Always apply the lock gently in training to avoid injury to your partner.
- Versatility: The Monoplata can be set up from different positions and even allow transitions into other submissions such as armbar variations.
- Counterpoints: Be aware of possible escapes from your opponent and learn how to counter them effectively.
The Monoplata beautifully illustrates the technical and transitional prowess present in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With practice, this technique can become a formidable addition to your submission repertoire.
How to Execute
# Monoplata from Closed Guard
## Setup
- **Initial Position Details:**
- Begin in the closed guard position with your opponent inside your guard.
- Your legs are wrapped around your opponent's waist, and your opponent is on their knees.
- **Grips and Controls Needed:**
- Secure a strong collar grip with your right hand on your opponent's right collar.
- With your left hand, control your opponent's right wrist or sleeve to prevent them from posturing up or defending effectively.
## Steps
1. **Break Opponent’s Posture:**
- Use your grips to pull your opponent forward, breaking their posture. Simultaneously, use your legs to draw them in closer to you.
- Keep your opponent's right arm across their body, aiming to get it to the left side of their head.
2. **Open Your Guard:**
- Open your guard by releasing the grip of your legs around their waist.
- Place your right foot on your opponent’s left hip to create distance and control.
3. **Position Your Leg Over the Shoulder:**
- Shoot your left leg over your opponent’s right shoulder, positioning it across the back of their neck.
- Your left calf should press against the back of their neck, keeping their posture broken.
4. **Adjust Your Angle:**
- Pivot your hips to the right slightly. You can use your right foot on their hip to assist with pivoting.
- This angle adjustment will create more pressure and control on their shoulder and neck.
5. **Lock the Figure-Four:**
- Bring your right leg over your left ankle, locking a figure-four position with your legs.
- Squeeze your knees together to control their head and arm.
6. **Finish the Monoplata:**
- To apply the submission, bridge your hips upward and slightly to the left.
- Maintain the pressure on their shoulder and neck while pulling down with your hands to complete the submission.
## Key Points
- **Important Details to Remember:**
- Keep your opponent’s posture broken at all times to prevent them from escaping or countering.
- Use your grips effectively to control their movement and maintain pressure.
- **Common Mistakes to Avoid:**
- Failing to adjust your angle properly, which can reduce the effectiveness of the submission.
- Not controlling the opponent’s arm effectively, allowing them to escape or posture up.
- Neglecting to squeeze your knees together, which can lead to a loss of control and pressure.
By following these steps and key points, you can effectively apply the Monoplata from the closed guard position, enhancing your submission arsenal in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
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