Introduction: Why Royce Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Raleigh, NC Is the Right Choice
Deciding to train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a life-changing step—and finding the right jiu jitsu gym in Raleigh, NC is crucial to your experience. At Royce Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, we combine a clean, supportive environment with expert coaching, structured programs, and foundational techniques that help beginners build confidence from day one.
This guide will walk you through:
- The top 10 BJJ submissions every beginner should learn
- How to evaluate a gym like Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu, ensuring your training environment supports growth, safety, and consistency
How to Choose the Right Jiu Jitsu Gym in Raleigh, NC
To make the most of your training, consider the following key factors—most of which align with best-practices highlighted by experts in BJJ school selection:
Instructor Expertise & Philosophy
Your coach shapes your jiu jitsu journey. At Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu, certified black belts deliver clear, patient instruction and foster a culture rooted in humility and respect.
Clean, Safe Facilities & Hygiene Protocols
A gym’s cleanliness speaks volumes about its values. We maintain spotless mats, clean changing areas, and enforce strict hygiene standards for health and safety.
Positive, Inclusive Community
We cultivate a team-first culture with training partners across belt levels, body types, and backgrounds—creating an ego-free space to learn together.
Structured Curriculum & Flexible Schedule
From fundamentals classes to advanced training, we offer multiple class times and open-mat sessions to support consistent practice and goal progression.
Why Submissions Matter in BJJ
Submissions are the heart of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. They are how matches are won in competition and how self-defense situations can be neutralized safely. For beginners training at jiu jitsu gyms in Raleigh, focusing on these fundamental submissions builds a solid base and accelerates your learning curve.
You’ll learn:
- Control before submission
- The art of timing and leverage
- Proper mechanics to prevent injury
- Respect for the tap and your training partners
Let’s dive into the essential submission techniques every beginner should know.
1. Rear Naked Choke (RNC)
The Rear Naked Choke is one of the most effective and iconic submissions in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Applied from the back, it targets the carotid arteries, causing a quick and safe tap—or even unconsciousness if held too long.
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- No need for a gi
- Highly effective in self-defense
- Taught early at most Raleigh jiu jitsu gyms
2. Guillotine Choke
This front headlock submission is commonly used when your opponent shoots for a takedown. It’s versatile and can be finished from guard, standing, or during a scramble.
Why It’s Great:
- Easy to learn
- Works well in both gi and no-gi
- Common in MMA and self-defense
3. Triangle Choke
Using your legs, you trap your opponent’s head and one arm in a figure-four shape, cutting off blood flow and forcing a tap.
Key Benefits:
- Teaches leg dexterity and posture control
- Frequently taught in fundamentals classes in Raleigh
- Great for those with long legs
4. Armbar from Mount
From a dominant top position (mount), you isolate an opponent’s arm and extend it straight, attacking the elbow joint.
Beginner Benefits:
- Builds control and patience
- Reinforces concepts of position before submission
- Taught early at reputable jiu jitsu gyms in Raleigh, NC
5. Armbar from Guard
This variation is done from your back, allowing you to attack an opponent who’s inside your guard.
Why You Should Learn It:
- Teaches hip movement
- Builds a solid closed guard game
- Useful for smaller practitioners
6. Americana (Keylock)
From side control or mount, you trap your opponent’s arm and twist it into a “figure 4” motion, attacking the shoulder.
Great for Beginners Because:
- Simple mechanics
- Reinforces positional dominance
- Often the first submission many white belts successfully complete
7. Kimura Lock
Another shoulder lock that can be applied from various positions, including guard, side control, and even from a standing clinch.
Why It’s Powerful:
- Versatile and high percentage
- Easily transitions to sweeps or back takes
- Common in both gi and no-gi jiu jitsu gyms in Raleigh
8. Ezekiel Choke
Typically performed from mount or top position using your own sleeve, it’s a sneaky and effective blood choke.
Ideal for Beginners Who:
- Train primarily in the gi
- Want to develop a strong top game
- Train in Raleigh gyms that emphasize traditional techniques
9. Straight Ankle Lock
A leg submission targeting the ankle joint through hyperextension. It’s legal for beginners in most competitions.
Why You Should Learn It:
- Introduces leg lock principles early
- Legal for white belts under IBJJF rules
- Taught more frequently now in modern jiu jitsu gyms in Raleigh
10. Cross Collar Choke
From closed guard, you grip your opponent’s gi collar with both hands to apply a choke directly across the neck.
Ideal for:
- Building a solid gi game
- Understanding grip fighting and collar control
- Raleigh gyms that teach traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu styles
Why Train These Submissions at Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Gym
Choosing Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Gym in Raleigh, NC ensures your foundation is solid:
- Step-by-step instruction that prioritizes safety and technique
- Tailored beginner programming that introduces one submission at a time
- Supportive training partners who help you practice without ego
- Clean, well-equipped facility designed for comfortable and healthy training
- Positive culture focused on personal growth, consistency, and respect
Final Thoughts: Build a Strong Foundation at the Right Gym
By learning these 10 essential submissions—and by choosing a gym with expert coaching, cleanliness, inclusive culture, and a structured curriculum—you’re setting yourself up for success on your BJJ journey.
We invite you to visit Royce Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym in Raleigh, NC for a free trial. Experience firsthand how our beginner-friendly environment and skilled coaching support your growth both on and off the mat.
