Figure-Four Grip

The Figure-Four Grip is a fundamental control grip in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that involves using both of your arms to lock onto one of your opponent's arms or limbs in a configuration resembling the number "4." This grip is highly versatile and provides a strong base for control, leverage, and submissions. It is a key component of techniques like the Kimura, Americana, Armbar, and various leg attacks.

Key Features of the Figure-Four Grip

Arm Position

  • One of your arms wraps around the opponent’s arm or limb, creating a hook.
  • Your other hand grips your own wrist, locking the grip securely.
  • This creates a stable "figure-four" shape.

Leverage

  • The grip provides superior leverage by engaging both of your arms against one of their limbs.
  • It allows you to generate significant Pressure and control.

Connection

  • The grip creates a tight connection to the opponent’s limb, limiting their ability to escape or counter.

Uses in BJJ

Submissions

  • Central to techniques like the Kimura, Americana, Armbar, and various shoulder or wrist locks.
  • Enables tight isolation of the opponent’s limb, making escape more difficult.

Control and Positional Advantage

  • Used to control the opponent's arm or leg during scrambles or transitions.
  • Helps immobilize the opponent’s limb to prevent defensive movements.

Takedown and Guard Passing

  • Can be used to control the opponent’s upper body or hips for takedowns or to facilitate Guard Passing.

Leg Locks

Advantages

  • Provides a strong and secure hold that is difficult for the opponent to escape.
  • Maximizes Leverage by engaging both arms against one limb.
  • Versatile, applicable to a wide variety of submissions and positions.

Tips for Effective Use

Grip Tight

  • Keep the grip tight and close to your body to maintain control and prevent escapes.

Use Your Body

  • Combine the grip with Hip Movement, shoulder pressure, and core engagement for maximum effectiveness.

Adjust for Position

  • Ensure the grip is positioned correctly depending on the submission or control you are attempting (e.g., high on the wrist for a Kimura).

Stay Dynamic

  • Be ready to transition to other grips or techniques if the opponent begins to counter or escape.

Common Mistakes

Loose Grip

  • A weak grip reduces control and allows the opponent to slip their limb free.

Overcommitting

  • Holding the grip too long without advancing can result in missed opportunities or counters.

Improper Alignment

  • Misaligning the grip (e.g., holding too low on the arm) reduces leverage and effectiveness.

Ignoring Body Mechanics

  • Failing to engage your Base, Posture, or hips can lead to ineffective application of the grip.

Variations and Combinations

Figure-Four Grip for Kimura

  • Use the grip to isolate the opponent’s arm while applying a rotational shoulder lock.

Figure-Four Grip for Americana

  • Lock their arm in a figure-four configuration while pressing their elbow downward to attack the shoulder.

Figure-Four Grip in Leg Locks

Figure-Four Grip for Control

  • Use the grip to control the opponent’s arm while transitioning to dominant positions like Mount or Back Control.

The Figure-Four Grip is a foundational tool in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing Leverage, Control, and setup opportunities for high-percentage submissions. By mastering its application and understanding its versatility, you can effectively dominate your opponent's limbs and maintain a strong offensive position.