BJJ Submissions Explained: The Top 10 Moves You MUST Master!

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) submissions are the heart and soul of this martial art. These techniques enable practitioners to end matches decisively by forcing their opponents to tap out. Understanding submissions and honing the skills required to apply them in live rolling, is the key to mastering BJJ. In this guide, we’ll dive into the most popular, effective, and beginner-friendly submissions, explaining why they are essential for your BJJ game. Keep reading for our top 10 list with examples.

What Are the Different Types of BJJ Submissions?

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), a submission is a technique designed to force an opponent to tap out by applying pressure to their joints or restricting their airflow or blood circulation. Submissions embody the essence of BJJ: using leverage and technique to neutralize an opponent, regardless of their size or strength. There are three primary types of BJJ submissions:

• Chokes: These submissions target the neck, cutting off airflow (air chokes) or blood flow (blood chokes) to the brain. Some of the most effective BJJ submissions, such as the Rear Naked Choke (RNC) and Triangle Choke, can render an opponent unconscious within seconds if they refuse to tap.
• Joint Locks: These submissions manipulate an opponent’s joints to their breaking point, forcing a tap or risking severe injury. Techniques like the Armbar and Kimura are staples in both sport BJJ and MMA, making them some of the most commonly used submissions in grappling.
• Compression Locks: These painful submissions involve trapping a muscle against a bone, causing immense pressure. Though less common than chokes and joint locks, techniques like the Bicep Slicer and Calf Slicer can be devastating when applied correctly.

Each submission type has its own unique application, and mastering them will enhance your overall grappling skill. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, understanding these fundamental categories will help you build a strong submission game.

How Many BJJ Submissions Are There?

Wondering how many BJJ submissions exist? While there's no exact number, the core list of Jiu-Jitsu submissions includes around 50 to 100 fundamental techniques. This number can grow significantly when you consider variations, setups, and transitions used in Gi and No-Gi BJJ, as well as adaptations for MMA.

With so many different BJJ submissions, beginners often wonder if they need to learn them all. The answer? Absolutely not! Instead of overwhelming yourself, focus on mastering the most common BJJ submissions first. Once you're comfortable with foundational techniques, you can start expanding your arsenal with advanced and specialized submissions.

Some of the most popular BJJ submissions have been around for decades, while others are modern innovations introduced by elite competitors. Whether you’re training for self-defense, sport competition, or MMA, understanding the different submission types will elevate your grappling game.

List of Most Common BJJ Submissions

Some submissions are seen in almost every gym, tournament, and even MMA fights. These techniques are fundamental to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and are among the most effective BJJ submissions for practitioners of all levels. Below is a breakdown of the different types of BJJ submissions that every grappler should know.

Chokes

Chokes are among the most common BJJ submissions because they target the neck to restrict blood flow or air supply. When applied correctly, they are nearly impossible to resist, no matter how strong your opponent is. Some of the most popular chokes include:

• Rear Naked Choke
• Triangle Choke
• Guillotine Choke

Joint Locks

Joint locks are a key part of any grappler’s submission arsenal. These moves isolate and manipulate joints, leaving the opponent with no choice but to tap or risk serious injury. Some of the top BJJ submissions in this category include:

• Armbar
• Kimura
• Americana

Compression Locks

Compression locks are less common but can be extremely painful and effective. These submissions use pressure to crush muscle tissue against bone, creating discomfort and potential injury. While often restricted in beginner levels, they become more prevalent at advanced ranks. Some examples include:

• Bicep Slicer
• Calf Slicer

Mastering these different types of BJJ submissions will improve your overall grappling skills. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced competitor refining your technique, understanding these fundamental attacks is crucial.

Top 10 BJJ Submissions with Examples

While BJJ offers a vast arsenal of submission techniques, some stand out due to their effectiveness, versatility, and frequency in competition. Below is a list of the top 10 BJJ submissions that every grappler should know:

1. Rear Naked Choke (RNC) – One of the most effective BJJ submissions, this choke attacks the neck from the back, making it nearly impossible to escape.
2. Triangle Choke – A classic technique where you use your legs to trap the opponent’s neck and arm, restricting their blood flow.
3. Armbar – A fundamental joint lock that hyperextends the elbow, forcing a tap.
4. Guillotine Choke – A front-headlock choke often used in both Gi and No-Gi settings.
5. Kimura – A shoulder lock that isolates the opponent’s arm, creating immense torque.
6. Americana – A submission commonly applied from mount or side control, attacking the shoulder joint.
7. Heel Hook – One of the most dangerous BJJ submissions, targeting the knee ligaments via foot rotation.
8. Omoplata – A sneaky shoulder lock that leverages leg control.
9. D’Arce Choke – A powerful blood choke commonly used in No-Gi grappling.
10. Ankle Lock – A devastating lower-body submission that hyperextends the foot and ankle.

These submissions represent the core of any grappler’s offensive strategy. Learning them will significantly improve your ability to finish fights, whether in training, competition, or self-defense situations.

Beginner-Friendly BJJ Submissions

Starting your BJJ journey can be overwhelming, especially with the vast number of submissions available. However, some techniques are easier to learn and highly effective, making them perfect for beginners. Here are some of the best BJJ beginner submissions to start with:

• Armbar from Mount – A fundamental joint lock that isolates the opponent’s arm, allowing for a controlled finish.
• Americana – One of the easiest BJJ submissions, typically executed from side control to attack the shoulder joint.
• Guillotine Choke – A highly effective front-headlock submission that works well in both Gi and No-Gi.

Easy BJJ Submissions from Guard

The guard is one of the most versatile positions in BJJ, offering a variety of submissions that are both effective and easy to learn. If you're looking for BJJ easy submissions from guard, these are excellent starting points:

• Triangle Choke – A powerful blood choke that traps the opponent’s arm and neck using your legs.
• Armbar from Guard – A classic technique that targets the elbow joint when your opponent leaves an arm exposed.
• Guillotine Choke from Guard – A front-headlock submission that works well when an opponent leans forward.
• Omoplata – A shoulder lock that uses the legs to trap and torque the opponent’s arm.

These submissions provide a strong foundation for any grappler. They require minimal setup, making them easier to execute and perfect for building confidence in live rolling.

Most Dangerous BJJ Submissions

While many submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are designed for control and efficiency, some techniques carry a higher risk of injury due to the extreme pressure they place on joints and ligaments. These most dangerous BJJ submissions require careful execution and should only be practiced with experienced partners under supervision.

• Heel Hook – One of the most feared leg locks, the heel hook attacks the knee ligaments, often leading to severe injuries if not applied or escaped properly.
• Neck Crank – Unlike chokes, neck cranks put immense pressure on the cervical spine, making them extremely dangerous.
• Twister – A spine lock submission that can cause serious damage to the neck and back.

Due to the high risk associated with these submissions, many BJJ academies and competitions limit their use, especially for beginners. If you train them, do so responsibly and always prioritize safety.

The Hardest BJJ Submissions to Execute

Some BJJ submissions are extremely difficult to pull off, even for experienced practitioners. These techniques often require high-level timing, flexibility, or a deep understanding of mechanics. While they can be devastating when executed correctly, they are not the best choices for beginners.

Why Are Some Submissions So Hard?

Several factors make certain submissions harder to execute than others:

• Setup Complexity – Some submissions require a multi-step setup that opponents can easily defend.
• Flexibility & Mobility – Certain techniques require extreme flexibility, making them difficult for many practitioners.
• Precision & Timing – Some moves only work in very specific situations and require split-second execution.

Examples of the Hardest BJJ Submissions

Below are some of the hardest BJJ submissions that even advanced grapplers struggle with:

• Gogoplata – A rare choke that requires incredible hip mobility and the ability to get your shin under your opponent’s neck.
• Twister – A spinal lock that demands high-level back control and precise positioning.
• Flying Armbar – A flashy but risky submission that requires perfect timing and explosive movement.
• Mir Lock – A complex shoulder lock that demands a strong grip and quick adjustments.
• Baratoplata – A difficult shoulder lock that relies on tight control and a tricky finish.

While these submissions are challenging, they can be effective when executed by skilled practitioners. However, beginners should focus on simpler, high-percentage submissions before attempting these advanced techniques.

The Worst BJJ Submissions (Least Effective or High-Risk)

Not all BJJ submissions are created equal. Some techniques are rarely used because they lack effectiveness, require unrealistic setups, or are too risky in live training. While they may work in certain situations, most high-level grapplers avoid these submissions in competition.

What Makes a Submission "Bad"?

A submission can be considered ineffective or risky for several reasons:

• Low Success Rate – Some moves are too easy to counter or escape.
• High Injury Risk – Certain techniques put excessive stress on the user's body as well as the opponent's.
• Limited Applicability – Some submissions only work in specific situations or against inexperienced opponents.

Examples of the Worst BJJ Submissions

Here are some of the worst BJJ submissions that most practitioners avoid:

• Can Opener – A neck crank that is banned in most competitions and offers little control.
• Full Nelson – Illegal in sport BJJ and nearly impossible to apply in a real match.
• Wrist Locks (for beginners) – Highly situational and not as reliable as other joint locks.
• Banana Split – More of a pain-compliance move than an actual fight-ending submission.
• Pressure-Based "Squeeze" Submissions – Moves like the Von Flue choke that rely on crushing pressure rather than technique.

While these submissions may work in certain contexts, they are generally not recommended as high-percentage techniques. Instead, focus on proven, high-success-rate submissions that work at all levels of competition.

BJJ Submission Guidelines: When and How to Tap

Knowing how to apply submissions is only part of the equation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Understanding when and how to tap is just as important for your safety and your training partner's well-being. Whether you're sparring in class or competing, following proper BJJ submission guidelines is crucial.

When Should You Tap?

A common saying in BJJ is "Tap early, tap often". Ignoring this advice can result in serious injuries. Here are some key moments when you should tap:

• When a joint lock is fully extended – Once your elbow, knee, or shoulder is stretched to its limit, it’s already too late to escape.
• When a choke is tight – Blood chokes, like the Triangle Choke or Rear Naked Choke, can put you to sleep in seconds.
• If you feel intense pain – Discomfort is normal in BJJ, but sharp pain is a clear signal that you're in danger.

How to Tap Properly

When caught in a submission, you need to tap clearly so your opponent knows to release the hold. Here's how:

• Tap your opponent or the mat – Use your hand to tap multiple times in a way that they can feel or see.
• Tap verbally – If your hands are trapped, say “tap” loud enough for your partner to hear.
• Use your foot if necessary – If your arms are immobilized, tapping the mat or your opponent with your foot is also effective.

Training vs. Competition Mindset

While training, submissions should be applied gradually to allow your partner time to tap. However, in competition, athletes are less likely to give you that courtesy, so knowing when to escape and when to tap is critical.

Illegal and Restricted Submissions

Not all submissions are allowed in every belt rank or tournament. Here are some examples of restricted techniques:

• Heel Hooks – Illegal in most Gi competitions but allowed in advanced No-Gi divisions.
• Neck Cranks – Often banned due to high injury risk.
• Slicers & Twisters – Restricted in most white and blue belt divisions.

Understanding these BJJ submission guidelines will help you train safely, avoid injuries, and respect competition rules. Always prioritize safety and train responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of BJJ submissions?

There are three main categories: chokes, joint locks, and compression locks.

What is the best submission in BJJ?

The best submission depends on the situation, but the Rear Naked Choke is often considered one of the most effective BJJ submissions due to its high success rate in both Gi and No-Gi competition.

How many BJJ submissions are there?

The core list of Jiu-Jitsu submissions includes around 50 to 100 fundamental techniques, but variations and setups expand this number significantly.

What are the most common BJJ submissions?

Some of the most common BJJ submissions include the Rear Naked Choke, Triangle Choke, Armbar, Guillotine, and Kimura.

What are the hardest BJJ submissions to escape?

Submissions like the Heel Hook, Triangle Choke, and Armbar can be extremely difficult to escape once fully locked in.

Are there submissions that are banned in BJJ competitions?

Yes, certain submissions such as Heel Hooks and Neck Cranks are often restricted in lower belt levels due to their high risk of injury. Always check with your tournament’s official rule set to confirm legal techniques.