Why Are Submissions Divided by Belt?

Some submissions require greater control and understanding. Certain techniques place more stress on joints and can be dangerous if used incorrectly. For this reason, the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) sets specific rules for each belt level—especially in competition.

These rules are important because they:

• Protect newer students from injury

• Promote technical development

• Teach control and responsibility

• Encourage safe progress

At Brazil 021 Chicago, we respect this progression and help students apply submissions with precision and safety.

Submissions by Belt Level

Let’s break down which submissions are taught and allowed at each stage of your journey.

White Belt – Learning the Basics

White belt is where every student starts. The goal here is to build strong fundamentals—like posture, control, and basic escapes. Submission training begins early, but only with low-risk techniques.

Allowed submissions:

• Rear naked choke

• Guillotine choke

• Triangle choke

• Armbar

• Kimura

• Americana

• Cross collar choke (gi only)

• Ezekiel choke (gi only)

Not allowed:

• Wrist locks

• Toe holds

• Heel hooks

• Kneebars

• Bicep/calf slicers

• Any twisting leg locks or neck cranks

White belts are taught to apply pressure slowly, respect the tap, and focus on control—not speed.

Blue Belt – Building Control and Awareness

Blue belts have a better understanding of timing and base. Submissions now become more diverse. Students begin to combine techniques and learn to transition between positions.

Added techniques:

• Omoplata

• Bow and arrow choke

• Baseball bat choke (gi only)

• Straight ankle lock (in competition)

• Loop choke

• Paper cutter choke

Still not allowed:

• Toe holds

• Kneebars

• Heel hooks

• Bicep/calf slicers

• Wrist locks (in competition)

At this level, students learn setups and anticipate counters. Submissions become cleaner and more intentional.

Purple Belt – Developing Strategy

Purple belts are considered advanced. Submissions now include attacks that require deeper technical knowledge and positional awareness.

Now permitted:

• Toe holds

• Wrist locks

• Bicep and calf slicers

• Arm triangle

• Peruvian necktie

• Clock choke

Still restricted in IBJJF gi competition:

• Heel hooks

• Reaping the knee

Purple belts are expected to show control and responsibility, especially when training with lower belts.

Brown Belt – Refinement and Flow

Brown belts are close to black. Their game becomes more fluid and strategic. Submissions at this stage can be more aggressive—but must always be applied with control.

Allowed submissions:

• Kneebars

• All previously mentioned techniques

• Advanced grip variations and transitions

• More aggressive leg lock entries (with legal limits)

Still not allowed:

• Heel hooks (in gi IBJJF events)

• Reaping the knee

Students at this level take on leadership roles, helping to guide beginners while perfecting their own game.

Black Belt – Mastery and Responsibility

Black belts have full access to nearly every submission in traditional BJJ. They are expected to teach, lead, and roll with maturity.

Allowed:

• All legal IBJJF techniques

• Complex submission chains

• Control-based finishes

• Strategic application of pressure

In no-gi competitions at adult black belt level, heel hooks and knee reaps are now permitted under IBJJF rules.

At Brazil 021 Chicago, black belts set the standard—training with awareness, humility, and constant learning.

What About Children’s Submissions?

Kids follow a different set of rules focused on safety and learning. At Brazil 021 Chicago, we prioritise skill development and anti-bullying—not competition pressure.

Common submissions taught to children:

• Rear naked choke

• Armbar

• Americana

• Collar chokes (gi only)

Not allowed for children:

• Leg locks of any kind

• Guillotine chokes for younger kids

• Neck cranks

• Wrist locks

• Any twisting submissions

Our youth instructors teach students how to tap, how to apply pressure safely, and how to train with respect.

When Can You Use These in Competition?

IBJJF and other major organisations have specific rules for each belt level. Even if you know the technique, using an illegal submission in a match can lead to disqualification.

At Brazil 021 Chicago, we teach competition rules as part of your training so that you’re always prepared—mentally and technically.

How to Progress Safely Through the Ranks

To safely apply submissions and level up:

• Train consistently – Repetition builds skill

• Ask questions – Understand the purpose of every technique

• Respect your training partners – Tap early, apply slowly

• Drill with intention – Precision beats power

• Be patient – Promotions come with time, effort, and attitude

Jiu-Jitsu is not just about what you know—it’s about how you use it. That’s why our academy builds strong fundamentals first.

Where to Learn the Right Way in Chicago

If you want to learn Jiu-Jitsu safely, with expert guidance and structured progression, Brazil 021 Chicago is the place.

📍 We’re located at 2643 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, and we offer:

• Programmes for kids, teens, and adults

• Gi and no-gi classes

• Beginner-friendly intro courses

• Competition training and self-defence

• A team focused on growth, safety, and support

Our instructors are passionate about teaching real Jiu-Jitsu—with control, awareness, and purpose.