BJJ Crucifix Position | BJJ App Wiki
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Master the BJJ crucifix position: entries from turtle, arm isolation mechanics, neck cranks, and rear naked choke setups from crucifix control.
Master the BJJ crucifix position: entries from turtle, arm isolation mechanics, neck cranks, and rear naked choke setups from crucifix control.
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What Is the Crucifix?
The crucifix is a top position where both of the opponent's arms are isolated and controlled — one arm trapped under your legs, the other controlled by your hands. The position is often called 'double arm isolation' and creates near-inescapable submission setups.
Entering the Crucifix
- From turtle: Reach under and grab the near arm, step over their head, roll them to create the leg-over-arm trap
- From side control: Near arm floats → step leg over it, establish crucifix
- Turtle roll: Clock choke grip → roll through → land in crucifix
Crucifix Attacks
| Attack | Type | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Naked Choke | Blood choke | One arm in (body), choke hand free |
| Armbar (near side) | Joint lock | Leg-trapped arm + hip drop |
| Neck Crank | Cervical compression | Avoid in training — very high injury risk |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Techniques
Common Mistakes in Crucifix Position
Rushing the Setup
Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.
Using Strength Over Technique
Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.
Skipping Drilling
Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.
Ignoring Defensive Reactions
Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.
Related Video
More Questions
What are the main advantages of the crucifix position in BJJ?
The crucifix offers superior control over your opponent's upper body, limiting their ability to defend or escape. It also provides excellent leverage for transitioning to powerful submissions like armbars, kimuras, and rear-naked chokes.
How do I prevent my opponent from escaping the crucifix?
Maintaining tight control of the opponent's arms and hips is crucial. Focus on keeping their shoulders perpendicular to the mat and using your legs to control their hips, preventing them from turning into you or creating space.
What are common mistakes beginners make in the crucifix position?
A common mistake is not securing the opponent's arms properly, allowing them to post or escape. Another is failing to maintain hip control, which gives them the opportunity to shrimp or bridge out of the position.