The Kimura
What is the kimura?
The kimura is a figure-four shoulder lock in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It controls the wrist and upper arm, then guides the arm behind the back to turn the shoulder joint. People use the kimura in Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu.
In plain words
Hold the wrist, bend the arm, and use a figure-four grip to guide the shoulder. A coach can show the grip and the safe range of motion.
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the kimura can help you hold a position, make a sweep, or move to another hold.
How the kimura works
A good kimura uses control and angle, not force. One arm bends and holds your partner's arm. Your other arm joins it to make a figure-four grip.
The kimura can help you hold a position, sweep, or move to another hold. You may see it from guard, side control, or north-south.
Start here
Move slow. Let go when your partner taps.
Coach cue: Stay calm and keep your structure while working kimura.
Coach says
Keep the figure-four grip and move with care. In Gi and No-Gi class, a coach can show how to set up the kimura and guide each step.
Stay safe
Move with care. Let go when your partner taps.
Coached rounds begin at a controlled pace so everyone trains safely.
FAQ
What does the kimura mean in BJJ?
The kimura is a figure-four shoulder lock in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It controls the wrist and upper arm, then guides the arm behind the back to turn the shoulder joint. People use it in Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu.
How should beginners train the kimura?
Train the kimura with control, follow coach cues, and tap or reset early when needed.