Breaking the Lock: Effective Techniques for Defending Against the Americana Submission

The Americana, also known as the keylock, is a common submission technique used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and MMA. It is a shoulder lock that involves placing pressure on the shoulder joint by isolating the arm and applying pressure at the elbow. While the Americana can be an effective submission, it’s important for grapplers to know how to defend against it. In this article, we’ll explore several techniques and principles for defending against the Americana submission.

Understanding the Mechanics of the Americana

Before we dive into specific techniques for defending against the Americana, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the mechanics of the submission. The Americana works by isolating the arm and placing pressure on the shoulder joint. The attacker will typically start by securing their opponent’s arm and placing their own arm over the opponent’s arm, with their hand grabbing their own wrist. From here, the attacker will use their body weight to apply pressure to the opponent’s shoulder joint by pulling their own elbow down and towards their opponent’s hips.

Basic Defense Against the Americana

One of the most basic defenses against the Americana is to prevent the attacker from isolating your arm. If the attacker is unable to secure your arm, they won’t be able to apply the submission. To prevent the Americana, it’s important to keep your elbows tight to your body and not allow your opponent to separate your arms. If your opponent is able to separate your arms, you should immediately work to reposition them so that they’re together again.

If your opponent is able to secure your arm and begin setting up the Americana, you should focus on preventing them from getting their own arm over your arm. This can be done by using your free hand to grab onto your opponent’s arm and prevent them from getting their own arm in position. You can also use your legs to create space and prevent your opponent from getting close enough to apply the submission.

Advanced Defense Against the Americana

If your opponent is able to get their arm in position for the Americana, there are several advanced techniques you can use to defend against the submission. One option is to bridge and roll, which involves bridging your hips up towards the ceiling and rolling over your shoulder. This will help to relieve pressure on your shoulder joint and make it more difficult for your opponent to apply the submission.

Another option is to use a counter-lock by grabbing onto your opponent’s arm and locking your own arm around their arm, effectively preventing them from being able to apply the Americana. You can also use your own body weight to create leverage and prevent your opponent from being able to apply the submission. This can be done by shifting your weight towards your opponent’s hips and away from their shoulder.

Countering the Americana

If your opponent is able to secure the Americana and you’re unable to defend against it, there are several counter-attacks you can use to escape the submission. One option is to roll over your shoulder and use your legs to push your opponent away from you. This will create space and relieve pressure on your shoulder joint. Another option is to use your free arm to attack your opponent’s exposed arm, which can force them to release the submission and defend against your attack.

Tips for Preventing the Americana

Preventing the Americana submission starts with having good defensive posture and keeping your elbows tight to your body. It’s also important to maintain control of your opponent’s arms and prevent them from isolating one arm. If your opponent is able to secure your arm, you should focus on preventing them from getting their own arm over your arm, which is the key to applying the Americana submission.

Key Principles to Remember While Escaping the Americana

When trying to escape an Americana, it’s important to keep a few key principles in mind. First and foremost, you should always focus on defending your arm. This means keeping your elbow tight to your body and using your other arm to create a barrier between your opponent’s hips and your arm. Additionally, you should try to use your body position to your advantage. By rotating your hips and getting onto your side, you can create space and make it more difficult for your opponent to apply the submission. Finally, it’s important to remain calm and patient. Panicking or flailing your arms can actually make the submission more effective, so try to stay composed and methodical in your escape attempts. By keeping these principles in mind, you’ll be better equipped to defend against the Americana and escape to a more dominant position.

In conclusion, escaping the Americana is an essential skill for any Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner. By understanding the mechanics of the technique, staying aware of your opponent’s movements, and using effective defense and counter-attacks, you can successfully defend against the submission and potentially turn the tables in your favor. Remember to stay calm, keep your posture and base, and be patient in your escapes. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you can develop a strong defense against the Americana and other submission techniques, and become a more well-rounded and confident grappler. Keep drilling and rolling!