Master the Swim Move: Pat Campagnola's Armbar Recovery Technique
One of the biggest challenges when attacking an armbar in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is dealing with an opponent who aggressively stacks to escape. If you've ever lost a submission because your opponent drove forward and broke your control, the Swim Move is a technique you need to learn.
In this instructional breakdown, Pat Campagnola, head coach of 10th Planet Springfield, Massachusetts, demonstrates how to use the Swim Move to recover your position, transition into Spider Web, and attack the armbar again.
Whether you're training No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, or MMA, this armbar recovery technique can help turn a failed submission attempt into another opportunity to finish.
What Is the Swim Move in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
The Swim Move is an advanced armbar recovery technique used when your opponent attempts to escape by stacking you.
Instead of abandoning the submission, the technique allows you to rotate underneath your opponent, maintain control, and transition directly into the Spider Web position, giving you another chance to finish the armbar.
This movement is particularly effective for practitioners who frequently attack from the armbar and want to improve their submission retention.
The 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu System
Founded by Eddie Bravo in 2003, 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu revolutionized the grappling world with its innovative No-Gi submission system.
Known for creative positions, fluid transitions, and submission-focused techniques, the 10th Planet system has grown into a worldwide network of academies with a unique culture and approach to modern grappling.
As the head coach of 10th Planet Springfield, Pat Campagnola has helped bring this system to New England, teaching effective techniques that work in both competition and live sparring.
Step-by-Step: How to Perform the Swim Move
Step 1: Begin in the Top Armbar Position
Start with a secure armbar setup.
Maintain a deep hook and keep your feet crossed to control your opponent's posture and prevent them from escaping too early.
Step 2: Your Opponent Stacks
As your opponent drives forward and stacks you to defend the armbar, avoid resisting with strength alone.
Instead, prepare to transition into the Swim Move.
Step 3: Rotate Underneath
Reach your free hand toward your opponent's hip while rotating your body underneath them.
This movement creates the angle needed to continue controlling the position rather than losing the submission entirely.
Step 4: Hook Behind the Neck
As you rotate, bring your leg behind your opponent's neck to establish additional control.
Maintaining pressure here prevents your opponent from fully escaping.
Step 5: Perform the Swim Move
Scissor your legs while continuing the rotational movement.
As you swim underneath, grab your opponent's leg to help control their balance and movement.
This allows you to reverse the position and bring your opponent back to the mat.
Step 6: Return to Spider Web
Once your opponent is on their back, re-establish the Spider Web position.
Recover your deep hook, secure the arm, and continue attacking the armbar with improved control.
Rather than losing the submission, you've created a second opportunity to finish.
Why the Swim Move Works
The Swim Move succeeds because it uses movement and leverage instead of brute strength.
Rather than fighting directly against your opponent's stacking pressure, you redirect their momentum and use it to improve your own position.
Key advantages include:
- Recovering a failed armbar attack
- Maintaining submission pressure
- Transitioning smoothly into Spider Web
- Improving armbar retention
- Using your opponent's movement to your advantage
- Creating multiple submission opportunities from one attack
For athletes who enjoy attacking armbars, this technique can dramatically improve finishing percentages.
Tips for Success
When drilling the Swim Move, keep these details in mind:
- Stay relaxed when your opponent begins to stack.
- Rotate early instead of waiting until you've completely lost position.
- Keep your hooks active throughout the transition.
- Focus on maintaining control rather than rushing the finish.
- Practice the movement repeatedly before applying it during live rolling.
Like many advanced No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, timing and repetition are essential.
Learn More from Pat Campagnola
Pat Campagnola continues to teach practical submission techniques through 10th Planet Springfield and regularly shares instructional content with the grappling community.
For more technical breakdowns and competition-tested techniques, follow Pat on Instagram and Facebook, and explore more instructional videos from Revgear Sports featuring experienced coaches and athletes from the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system.
You'll also find instruction from respected competitors including Scott Epstein of 10th Planet West Los Angeles and Kurt Chase Patrick of 10th Planet Fairfield, offering valuable insights for practitioners at every level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Spider Web position in BJJ?
Spider Web is one of the strongest control positions used when attacking an armbar. It allows you to isolate your opponent's arm while limiting their ability to escape.
Is the Swim Move for Gi or No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu?
The Swim Move is commonly taught within the 10th Planet No-Gi system, but the mechanics can also be applied in Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Is this technique suitable for beginners?
The Swim Move is generally best suited for intermediate and advanced practitioners who already understand basic armbar mechanics and positional control.