The Cement Mixer is a dynamic spinning submission from the turtle position that combines an arm crank and neck crank to force a tap. It is applied when the attacker is beside a turtled opponent, spins to thread under the opponent's near arm, and uses a rotating motion to torque both the arm and neck simultaneously. The technique is particularly associated with no-gi submission wrestling and has appeared in high-level ADCC and submission grappling competitions.
The Cement Mixer is a submission that attacks the arm and neck simultaneously from the turtle position. Unlike the crucifix (which uses the legs to trap the arm), the cement mixer uses a spinning body motion: the attacker threads under the opponent's near arm and rotates their body, creating a cranking torque that puts pressure on the elbow, shoulder, and cervical spine at once.
It is primarily a no-gi technique, though a gi variant exists. In no-gi submission wrestling (where neck cranks and arm cranks are often legal), the cement mixer is a legitimate finishing technique. In IBJJF gi competition, the neck crank component restricts its legality below black belt.
The cement mixer works through rotational torque:
The cement mixer is most effective in open submission wrestling formats where neck cranks and arm cranks are legal β ADCC, EBI, Quintet, and most regional sub-only events. It has appeared in professional grappling matches and MMA.
In IBJJF competition, neck cranks are not permitted below black belt and are not commonly seen even at black belt. The cement mixer is primarily a no-gi technique in the competitive context.
The arm crank element may be allowable, but the neck crank component makes it restricted in IBJJF competition below black belt. Check the current IBJJF technical regulations for the latest ruleset. In sub-only and ADCC-style events, it is generally legal.
The crucifix uses your legs to trap the opponent's arm and creates a stable pinning position from which you apply submissions. The cement mixer is a dynamic spinning submission β it's applied in motion (the spin) rather than from a static control position. The crucifix is slower and more controlled; the cement mixer is explosive and sudden.
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Start Free βMost practitioners develop functional competency with Cement Mixer within 3β6 months of consistent drilling. Mastery β the ability to execute reliably in live rolling against resisting opponents β typically takes 1β2 years.
Yes. Cement Mixer is part of the core BJJ curriculum and taught at all belt levels. Beginners should focus on the fundamental mechanics and concepts before refining advanced entries.
3β5 times per week is ideal for rapid skill acquisition. Even 10 focused repetitions per session compounds over time β consistency matters more than volume.
BJJ is a linked system. Cement Mixer flows naturally to and from related positions. Study transitions in both directions to build a complete positional game.
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Get Free Access βThe key is to maintain a strong posture and keep your head up, preventing your opponent from getting the angle to secure the trap. Actively defend by framing with your hands and shrimping out to create space.
A common mistake is not securing the arm isolation properly, allowing the opponent to escape or counter. Another is rushing the submission without establishing control, which can lead to a compromised position for the attacker.
The cement mixer is most effective when your opponent is on their back or trying to scramble away, as it leverages their weight against them. Common counters include bridging to relieve pressure, posturing up to break the grip, or transitioning to a different submission if the opportunity arises.