There’s two types of armlocks from guard. The dynamic “pow, gotcha” version, and the “i’m going to armlock you and there’s nothing you can do about it” version. We did the later last night.

This version focuses on maintaining control and eliminating space. Secure the arm. Pivot your hips while keeping your leg biting down on their back. Cross your legs in a triangle-like position. Grip your ankle and frame his face to prevent him from turning into you. Swing your leg over his head, taking the shortest path. Cross your feet, open your knees and finish.

We covered some counters as well. If he stands up, hook his leg and sweep, then finish. If he goes to one knee, hook his OTHER leg, sweep and finish. If he stands up and rips his arms free, switch to X guard and go for a sweep and pass. I was paired up with Danny, who helped me with some details.

For rounds, I had Wade & Bob in a group of three. We did 5 minute blocks. I had Wade, Bob, break, and then Wade again. First round, Wade and I were pretty much a stalemate. With Bob, I swept, but then he started wrapping me up with my gi lapel in a really odd way, and then used it to sweep and mount. I’m not sure what I could have done, as he had my arms basically tied together. Last round with Wade, I got off a few good attacks and sweeps, but no submission.

In other news, my belt is missing. I looked for it when I got home, but came up empty. If it’s gone, I’m going to be pretty sad.