Kimura Physics and Counter Submissions from the Top Half Guard

Defending and countering the Kimura from top half guard involves a focus on the bottom hand. Begin by placing your hand on the ground and allow your partner to grab your wrist. This is the hand you must defend to prevent the Kimura. When your partner attempts to sit up for the Kimura, block their wrist with a monkey grip and push it away, forcing their palm up. This prevents them from regaining posture and gives you time to set up your next moves.

1. Stay on your toes with a wide base to maintain balance.
2. Block the bottom hand every time your partner reaches up and over your body.
3. When your partner locks the Kimura, look towards their ear, not across your body.
4. Decompress to your elbow and move towards your partner with your chin against them to nullify the move.
5. As you become more proficient, sit up and block the bottom wrist.
6. Circle your hand to your chest, placing it flat against your chest, which puts your partner in a wrist lock or shoulder lock.
7. Grab their shoulder and drive your weight forward to apply a strong submission.

This sequence helps you understand the checkpoints of the Kimura, allowing you to recover if caught early. When your partner grabs your wrist, block their hand, slide your hand out, circle it towards your belly, and bring it up to the top. Lean down on your partner, driving your weight into them, similar to a flat-handed guillotine. Knowing where to look during these moves can help your jiu-jitsu become more intuitive and effective.