Americana

The Americana, also known as a keylock or paintbrush, is a shoulder lock submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling arts. It targets the shoulder joint by isolating the opponent's arm and applying rotational pressure. This submission is highly effective when performed from dominant top positions like Side Control or Mount.

Key Concepts

Shoulder Lock

  • The Americana leverages the opponent's arm, applying rotational force that pressures the shoulder joint and surrounding ligaments.

Arm Isolation

  • The opponent's arm is pinned to the mat and immobilized, allowing for controlled application of the lock.

Leverage and Control

  • Your grip and body positioning maximize the force applied to the opponent's shoulder.

Execution Steps

Achieve Top Position

Pin the Opponent’s Arm

  • Use your hand closest to their head to grab and control their wrist, pressing it to the mat. Ensure their arm forms a 90-degree angle with their shoulder and elbow.

Establish a Figure-Four Grip

  • Slide your other hand under their arm (near their elbow) and grab your own wrist, forming a Figure-Four Grip.

Secure Control

  • Keep their wrist pinned to the mat with your gripping hand. Use your body weight to prevent their shoulder and torso from rotating or escaping.

Apply the Lock

  • Slowly lift their elbow off the mat while keeping their wrist stationary. This creates rotational pressure on the shoulder joint.

Finish with Control

  • Gradually increase the pressure until the opponent taps. Apply the lock carefully to avoid injury.

Common Entries

From Side Control

  • Pin their arm to the mat as they attempt to frame or defend against your control.

From Mount

  • Isolate their arm if they push against your chest or attempt to escape by bridging or framing.

From Knee on Belly

  • Use your weight to control their torso and isolate their arm as they defend.

During a Scramble

  • Capitalize on exposed arms during transitions or dynamic exchanges.

From North South

  • If the opponent's arm is extended, transition into the Americana by securing their wrist and applying the lock.

Tips for Success

Keep the Wrist Pinned

  • Prevent the opponent’s arm from slipping free by maintaining pressure on their wrist.

Control Their Body

  • Use your weight and pressure to keep the opponent's shoulders flat on the mat.

Gradual Pressure

  • Apply the submission slowly and with control to avoid injury.

Transition Options

  • Be ready to switch to a Kimura or Armbar if the opponent defends by straightening their arm.

Positioning

The Americana is most effective when you can control the opponent’s Fundamentals/Base and posture, keeping their arm isolated while preventing them from escaping or countering. Proper pressure and connections are essential for success.

From Side Control

  • One of the most common positions for the Americana, as you can pin the opponent's arm to the mat while maintaining control of their torso.
  • Use pressure to immobilize their upper body and isolate the arm for the submission.

From Mount

  • Attack the Americana when the opponent attempts to frame or push against your chest or hips.
  • Use your weight and Fundamentals/Base to secure their arm and maintain control during the lock.

From Knee on Belly

  • Apply pressure with your knee to force defensive movements, creating an opportunity to isolate their arm for the Americana.
  • Transition into the lock once their arm is exposed.

From North South

  • If the opponent's arm is extended or framing defensively, you can trap it and apply the Americana.
  • Use your body weight to control their shoulders and set up the submission.

During a Scramble

  • Exploit moments when the opponent’s arm is exposed during transitions or dynamic exchanges.
  • Quickly secure their arm and pin it to the mat to apply the Americana.

From Turtle Control

  • As the opponent turtles, trap their arm if it is extended or used for posting.
  • Roll them to their back and transition into the Americana.

From Crucifix

  • Control their arm and isolate their shoulder to apply the lock with precision.
  • This position provides strong control, making it difficult for the opponent to escape.

From Half Guard Top

  • If the opponent posts or frames to recover guard, isolate their arm and transition to the Americana.
  • Use your hips and shoulders to apply pressure while maintaining control.

YouTube Videos