How to Do the Americana Technique From 4-Point Side Control in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

The Americana technique is the Brazilian Jujitsu technique known in wrestling and mixed martial arts as the figure 4-arm bar. In Brazilian Jujitsu this technique is done on the ground from a 4-point side control. The Americana is a simple but effective arm bar that involves the entanglement of one of your opponent's arms using both of yours.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get into a 4-point side control stance. Your knees should be snug against the side of your opponent's body lying on his back, and your elbows should be on the ground on the opposite side of your opponent's torso.

2. Move your left knee into the hip of your opponent and your right elbow above your opponent's right shoulder.

3. Shift your weight to the left and quickly grab your opponent's right wrist using your right hand. Hold the wrist in place on the ground.

4. Bring your left arm over and place it under your opponent's right arm near your opponent's armpit. Grab your right wrist with your left hand to keep the arm bar secure.

5. Raise your left shoulder and shift your weight to the right to put pressure on the hold and create tension. Allow your partner to tap out of the hold.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware of when your partner wants to tap out of the hold. The Americana technique is not difficult to execute, but if you do the move too quickly or with too much force you may damage your partner's shoulder. Make sure you are proficient with the technique and able to control your motions before doing it in combat or real time.

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