Americana

Alternate names: Keylock, Paintbrush, Ude garami, Hara gatame

1 / 3

Technique Description

The Americana, also known as the keylock, paintbrush, ude garami, or hara gatame, is a versatile shoulder lock submission commonly applied from dominant top positions like side control or mount. To execute the Americana, isolate the opponent's arm and pin their wrist to the mat. Thread your other arm under their elbow and create a figure-four grip by clasping your own wrist. Once the grip is established, slowly elevate the opponent's elbow towards the ceiling while keeping their wrist pinned to the ground. This combination of movements applies significant pressure to the shoulder joint, forcing a submission. The americana may also be referred to as an arm crush or shoulder crush in submission grappling circles.

Technique Videos

Select from popular videos:

offense
defense
Learn A Hidden Detail To Finish The Americana by Henry Akins (Rickson Gracie Black Belt)

Learn A Hidden Detail To Finish The Americana by Henry Akins (Rickson Gracie Black Belt)

@bernardofariabjj@bernardofariabjj
offense
Best Way to Do the Americana Shoulder Lock by Henry Akins

Best Way to Do the Americana Shoulder Lock by Henry Akins

@bernardofariabjj@bernardofariabjj
offense
Defending The Americana - BJJ Move by Lachlan Giles

Defending The Americana - BJJ Move by Lachlan Giles

@bjj.fanatics@bjj.fanatics
defense
Triple Threat Attack from Side Control - Americana, Armbar, Kimura

Triple Threat Attack from Side Control - Americana, Armbar, Kimura

@affinityacademy8866@affinityacademy8866
offense
Americana Escape - ZombieProofBJJ (NoGi)

Americana Escape - ZombieProofBJJ (NoGi)

@ZombieProofBJJ@ZombieProofBJJ
defense
Slickest way to set up the Americana from side control!

Slickest way to set up the Americana from side control!

@mattarroyomma@mattarroyomma
offense

References

Videos from these amazing creators were referenced on this page