Submission

What is Submission?

In the context of martial arts and combat sports, a submission is a technique used to force an opponent to concede defeat, typically due to pain, the threat of injury, or an inability to escape. Submissions are a fundamental aspect of grappling disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), judo, sambo, and catch wrestling, and they are also widely used in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

Submissions generally fall into two main categories:

1. Joint Locks: These techniques involve manipulating an opponent's joints (such as the elbow, shoulder, knee, or ankle) to their maximum range of motion, causing pain and the potential for injury. Common joint locks include:
   • Armbar: Hyperextends the elbow joint.
   • Kimura: Twists the shoulder joint.
   • Americana: Similar to the kimura but with a different grip.
   • Kneebar: Hyperextends the knee joint.
   • Heel Hook: Twists the ankle and knee.
2. Chokes and Strangles: These techniques restrict blood flow to the brain (blood chokes) or airflow to the lungs (air chokes), leading to unconsciousness if not released. Common chokes include:
   • Rear-Naked Choke: Applied from behind the opponent, compressing the carotid arteries.
   • Guillotine Choke: Applied from the front, often while the opponent is bent forward.
   • Triangle Choke: Uses the legs to compress the opponent's neck and one arm.
   • Arm-Triangle Choke: Uses the opponent's arm and the practitioner's arm to compress the neck.

Key Elements of Executing a Submission:

• Positioning: Proper positioning is crucial for applying effective submissions. Fighters often work to achieve dominant positions like mount, side control, or back control to set up submissions.
• Control: Maintaining control over the opponent's body is essential to prevent escapes and apply pressure effectively.
• Technique: Precision and technique are critical. Applying a submission correctly often requires detailed knowledge of leverage, body mechanics, and timing.
• Transition: Fighters may transition between different submissions or positions to find the most effective way to finish the fight.

Defense Against Submissions:

• Awareness: Recognizing the signs of an impending submission and reacting quickly can prevent it from being fully applied.
• Positioning: Maintaining good defensive positions can make it harder for an opponent to apply submissions.
• Escapes: Knowing how to escape from various submission holds is crucial for survival in grappling and MMA.

Submissions are a highly technical and strategic aspect of combat sports, showcasing a fighter's skill, control, and understanding of grappling dynamics. In MMA, a successful submission can end a fight instantly, making it a powerful tool for any fighter.

Related Article: MMA: The Power and Passion of Mixed Martial Arts