Have you ever practiced a submission on someone, it just doesn’t seem to work? It could be something like an Americana or even a heel hook.

Typically, it’s just because they’re so relaxed and going with it. You apply force slowly and evenly, so they stay calm. You can ask them to tense up a little, which is more realistic anyway, and they’ll feel the breaking force.

You can try this yourself. Have someone lock you in an Americana (mount or side control, it doesn’t matter) and keep your shoulder relaxed and see how far they have to pull your arm back. Then try it again, but this time tense up.