### Lapeloplata Technique #### Overview: The Lapeloplata is a creative submission technique that combines elements of the omoplata and ingenious use of your opponent's gi lapel to execute a shoulder lock. It can be particularly advantageous in gi matches where lapel grips are often overlooked. #### Japanese Name: N/A #### Position: - **Open Guard** #### Step-by-Step Instructions: 1. **Basic Setup:** - Begin in an open guard position against your seated or kneeling opponent. - Identify which side you will attack (for example, their right arm). Trap this arm under your right leg. 2. **Lapel Grip Establishment:** - Reach for your opponent's gi lapel with your right hand and feed it under their armpit to your left hand. This effectively tightens the control you have over their arm. 3. **Breaking Posture:** - Hold the lapel tight with your left hand, pulling it across your opponent's back and breaking their posture. - Simultaneously, place your right foot on their hip to control their posture further and prevent them from posturing up. 4. **Positioning for the Lapeloplata:** - Use your left hand to pull the lapel across, forcing your opponent's shoulder to turn inward. - Swing your left leg over to cover their back while maintaining control with your right leg still trapping their right arm. 5. **Executing the Lapeloplata:** - Once in position, secure the lapel with both hands to ensure your opponent's arm is enveloped and trapped against their shoulder. - Begin swaying your hips out slightly, applying downward pressure with your legs in a similar fashion to an omoplata. 6. **Final Submission:** - As your opponent's shoulder is rotated and trapped with the lapel, increase the pressure applied by pushing your feet downward. - Your opponent will feel significant pressure on their shoulder, forcing them to tap out. 7. **Post-Execution Tips:** - Remain cautious to release immediately upon their tap to prevent injury. - Practice sensitivity and control, as the shoulder is a delicate and injury-prone area. ### Additional Notes: - The Lapeloplata is best executed if setup meticulously, ensuring the lapel is correctly fed and that the opponent's arm is tightly controlled. - This submission can be surprising, as the lapel is a rarely exploited tool in submission setups, making it less predictable for opponents seasoned in standard omoplata defenses. Enjoy adding this innovative and nuanced submission to your repertoire, enhancing both your gi game strategy and your creativity on the mat!