Move of the Day

Americana from Mount

A high-percentage shoulder lock when they turn to their side to escape.

When you have mount and they start framing or turning to their side, their far arm often becomes isolated on the mat. The Americana (ude-garami) uses that pinned arm: figure-four the grip, walk their elbow above the shoulder line, and paint the mat with their thumb.

The steps

1. 01From mount, keep a wide base and chest pressure. Do not sit up tall.
2. 02Pin their far wrist to the mat with your same-side hand (thumb toward their head).
3. 03Thread your other arm under their biceps and grab your own wrist — figure-four.
4. 04Walk their elbow up toward their ear so the shoulder is isolated.
5. 05Keep their wrist glued down and lift the elbow as you slide your hips slightly toward the trapped arm.

Details that matter

• If they hide the arm, switch to an arm triangle or S-mount. Do not force a dead Americana.
• Control the head with your chest so they cannot roll into you.
• Apply slowly. Shoulders do not tap as loudly as elbows — give them time.

Video walkthroughs live on the BJJ Everyday YouTube.

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