BJJ Submission Chain Attacks
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Try for Free βSubmission chains are the hallmark of high-level BJJ. Rather than attacking a single submission, elite grapplers flow between multiple attacks, using each defense as an entry to the next threat.
Core Principles of Chaining
Every submission attempt creates a reaction. A good chain attack anticipates that reaction and has a follow-up ready. The triangleβarmbarβomoplata chain from closed guard is the most studied example: when the opponent postures to defend the triangle, the arm becomes available for the armbar; when they stack to defend the armbar, the omoplata opens.
Kimura Trap System
The kimura is perhaps the most versatile submission for chaining. From side control, a kimura grip can lead to the kimura itself, a straight armbar, a guillotine, or a back take depending on how the opponent reacts. Players like Marcelo Garcia built entire games around this single grip.
Leg Lock Chains
Modern leg locking involves constant position exchanges. An outside heel hook attempt may transition to a kneebar, then to an inside heel hook, then to a straight ankle lock. Mastery of the ashi garami family allows seamless transitions between these attacks.
Upper Body Chains
- Triangle β armbar β omoplata (closed guard classic)
- Guillotine β arm drag β back take
- RNC β armbar from back (when opponent defends the choke)
- Kimura β guillotine β back mount
Drilling Chain Attacks
Train chain attacks in dedicated drilling sessions. Drill AβB 50 times, then BβA, then AβBβC. The goal is to make transitions automatic so they happen in live sparring without conscious thought.
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Try for Free βFrequently Asked Questions
What does 'Core Principles of Chaining' involve in this context?
The core principles of chaining phase focuses on developing precise technique, building muscle memory through repetition, and understanding the underlying mechanics that make this approach effective in live rolling.
What does 'Kimura Trap System' involve in this context?
The kimura trap system phase focuses on developing precise technique, building muscle memory through repetition, and understanding the underlying mechanics that make this approach effective in live rolling.
What does 'Leg Lock Chains' involve in this context?
The leg lock chains phase focuses on developing precise technique, building muscle memory through repetition, and understanding the underlying mechanics that make this approach effective in live rolling.
What does 'Upper Body Chains' involve in this context?
The upper body chains phase focuses on developing precise technique, building muscle memory through repetition, and understanding the underlying mechanics that make this approach effective in live rolling.
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Get Free Access βMore Questions
What is a submission chain in BJJ and why is it important?
A submission chain is a sequence of attacks where if one submission is defended, you transition smoothly into another. It's crucial for increasing your success rate by always having a follow-up option and preventing your opponent from settling into a defense.
How do I practice submission chains effectively?
Start by drilling individual submissions from a specific position, then link two together. Gradually add more submissions to the chain and practice transitioning between them live with a partner. Focus on maintaining control and pressure throughout the transitions.
What are common submission chain examples from guard?
A common chain from closed guard might involve attacking an armbar, transitioning to a triangle choke if the opponent defends the armbar, and then potentially to an omoplata if they stack or try to escape the triangle. The key is to anticipate their defense and have a pre-planned counter-attack.
Common BJJ Problems & FAQ
When your opponent turns their hips away, they are creating space by straightening their arm and disengaging the bicep from your shoulder. To counter this, ensure your hip is elevated and pressing into their hip pocket, preventing them from rotating, and keep your shin across their neck to maintain the triangle's structure.
If they tuck their elbow to defend the Americana, use that as an opportunity to secure the kimura grip by reaching your opposite hand *underneath* their armpit and grabbing your own wrist. Then, drive your shoulder into their elbow to break their posture and finish the kimura by extending their arm.
When your opponent stands, they are using their legs to create leverage and drive their weight upwards, effectively pushing your hips away from their torso. To prevent this, as they attempt to stand, immediately drive your hips forward and into their back, using your legs to 'climb' their back and maintain tightness on the omoplata shoulder lock.