This week Gracie Barra Learning will feature some videos on one of the best guard attacks of all..the omoplata.

The omoplata is a powerful and versatile technique that can be used as a sweep, a submission and a control position against a larger, stronger opponent. With or without the kimono, this is a technique that every guard player should know!

Let’s see some techniques and details by Gracie Barra instructors that you can try in your game.

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1) Omoplata from open guard – Omoplata partindo da Guarda Aberta
The spider guard is the perfect guard style to look to catch the omoplata. Note how the instructor uses his spider hook to first unbalance the opponent and then attack the other shoulder.

2) Butterfly Guard omoplata setup
Typically we think of the butterfly guard as a sweeping position. Prof. Flavio Almeida shows how he attacks the omoplata when the opponent counters his sweep.

3) Omoplata alternate finish from spider guard
Prof Draculino shows an alternate way to finish the omoplata. In this powerful position it is extremely difficult for your opponent to escape.

4) Omoplata sweep #2 / Variação do Omoplata para Raspagem
This is the 2nd sweep that you try when your opponent postures up and stops your first attempt at attack. You perform a back roll together with your opponent’s momentum. Tricky technique!

5) Double Attack from the Mount
Prof. Philipe Della Monica shows us how to enter into the omoplata lock from the mount position. Notice in this variation the opponent is facing up but the omoplata shoulder lock is the same!

See also on Gracie Barra : Triangle Choke From The Guard

Credits: Mark Mullen
Gracie Barra Black belt based in Saigon, Vietnam
Twitter: @MarkMullenBJJ