Issue 137

Greg Jackson is the most sought- after trainer in MMA. His New Mexico gym boasts a UFC win-rate of over 80%. Each issue he and acclaimed coaching partner Mike Winkeljohn mix up your martial arts skills.

ELBOWS FROM HALF GUARD

1. Greg (top) is in Mike’s half guard – on top with one leg between Mike’s legs, the other outside – and has control of Mike’s head with his left arm and shoulder.

2. Pushing himself up, Greg uses Mike’s underhook on his right-hand side to his advantage, tucking his right elbow down inside the underhook.

3. Greg pushes Mike’s left arm to the mat with his right forearm. For better control, Greg makes sure his wrist, not his palm, is pressing down on Mike’s biceps and his hand is hooking over the top of Mike’s upper arm.

4. Greg puts all his weight on his right elbow so Mike can’t get underneath and regain the underhook. Keeping that snug, Greg slides his free left leg up to Mike’s right armpit.

5. Reaching back with his left hand, Greg grabs Mike’s right wrist and pushes down. The aim is to create enough distance to allow Greg’s elbow to reach Mike’s head before Mike has the chance to block it with his right hand.

6. Making sure his hips are low and tight, Greg proceeds to let go of Mike’s wrist and quickly deliver an elbow strike to Mike’s head.