If there’s one part of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) that can flip the script on your opponent, it’s leg locks. Once taboo, leg locks are now recognized as a powerful tool that can level the playing field, regardless of size or strength. Whether you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or you’ve been rolling for a while, mastering leg locks will elevate your game and make you a more dangerous grappler.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the fundamentals, the key leg positions, and how to safely add leg locks to your skillset. Let’s get started on unlocking the secrets of leg locks—the ultimate Brazilian Jiu Jitsu game-changer.
Why Leg Locks Are Game-Changers in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
In the early days of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, leg locks were often considered “cheap” or “dirty,” and some schools outright banned them for beginners. But times have changed, and now, some of the most successful competitors in the world have proven just how devastating leg locks can be.
Leg locks force your opponent to address an area they’re often less familiar with and give you a massive tactical advantage. Let’s break down how to get started with leg locks.
The Fundamentals of Leg Locks in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Understanding Leg Lock Mechanics
Before you dive into submissions, it’s essential to understand how leg locks work. Leg locks target the joints and ligaments in the knee, ankle, and foot. It’s all about control—you need to isolate the leg and control your opponent’s movement before you can finish with a submission. If you rush into a leg lock without securing proper control, you’ll likely lose the position and give up an advantage.
The Key Leg Lock Position: Ashi Garami
To execute leg locks effectively in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you need to understand this position that sets up these submissions. Ashi Garami is the foundation for many leg locks. In Ashi Garami, you trap your opponent’s leg between your own, controlling their movements and limiting their escapes. There are different variations, such as the cross ashi, but these positions give you control over your opponent’s leg, which is crucial for setting up submissions. The more time you spend drilling these positions, the more comfortable you’ll be executing leg locks in live rolling.
High-Percentage Leg Lock Submissions in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Let’s go over some of the most effective and high-percentage leg locks you can incorporate into your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu game:
- Heel Hook: Considered one of the most dangerous leg locks due to its ability to tear the knee ligaments quickly. Mastering this submission makes you a serious threat.
- Straight Ankle Lock: A simpler leg lock that can be learned early and applied without too much risk. It’s a go-to for many grapplers.
- Knee Bar: This submission hyperextends the knee joint and can be applied from many positions. It’s a great option to add to your leg lock game.
- Toe Hold: The toe hold attacks the ankle and foot by twisting the foot at an unnatural angle. It’s a versatile submission and a great way to finish from certain leg entanglements.
Actionable Tip: When working on leg locks in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, focus on control before submission. Isolating the leg is crucial—don’t rush the submission until you have full control over your opponent’s leg.
Why Leg Locks Are a Game-Changer in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Leveling the Playing Field
One of the most appealing aspects of leg locks is their ability to level the playing field. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a bigger, stronger opponent, leg locks give you a way to attack where size doesn’t matter. Since many grapplers spend more time defending upper body submissions, leg attacks catch people off guard.
Expanding Your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Game
Leg locks open up new avenues of attack from various positions. Whether you’re standing and looking to pull guard or passing from the top, leg locks can be integrated into your game at every level.
For example, if you’re struggling to pass a stubborn guard, attacking the legs with a leg entanglement like cross ashi can create opportunities for submission. Likewise, when defending from the bottom, leg locks give you another weapon to catch an opponent who thinks they’re safe in your guard.
Actionable Tip: Drill leg lock entries from multiple positions, such as standing, passing, and bottom guard. This versatility will make you unpredictable and harder to control in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
The Risks and Rewards of Leg Locks in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Risks of Leg Locks
Leg locks are effective, but they come with risks. If you apply a leg lock carelessly, you can cause serious injury to your training partners. Be mindful of the pressure you apply and tap early if you’re caught in a leg lock.
Additionally, some Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournaments restrict certain leg locks, especially for lower belts. Techniques like heel hooks are often illegal for white and blue belts in most competitions, so be sure to know the rules of your event before attempting a submission.
The Rewards
The rewards of mastering leg locks are significant. A well-executed leg lock can end a match in seconds. Leg locks also give you a psychological edge—many opponents fear them because they aren’t as comfortable defending them.
Actionable Tip: Train leg lock defense as much as you train the submissions. Knowing how to escape and counter leg locks will give you confidence in any leg lock exchange during Brazilian Jiu Jitsu matches.
Developing Your Leg Lock Game in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Drilling and Sparring
To develop your leg lock game, start by drilling entries and transitions. You need to be comfortable setting up leg entanglements in live rolling.
Positional sparring is incredibly useful for leg locks. Spend time starting from leg entanglements and work on maintaining control and applying submissions against fully resisting opponents.
Learning from the Best
Study high-level competitors who specialize in leg locks. Watch how they set up their leg entanglements, transition from position to position, and finish submissions. You can learn a lot from watching the best in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Actionable Tip: Record your own rolls and analyze your leg lock attempts. Identify where you succeed and where you need improvement.
Integrating Leg Locks into Your Overall Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Game
While leg locks are powerful, they shouldn’t be the only tool in your arsenal. Balance your leg lock game with other submissions like armbars, triangles, and back attacks.
Leg locks can also set up other situations. For example, if your opponent defends your heel hook, they may give you the opportunity to transition into a guard pass.
Actionable Tip: Incorporate leg lock counters and transitions into your training to become a well-rounded grappler who can defend and attack from all positions in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Unlock Your Full Potential with Leg Locks in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Mastering leg locks is a game-changer in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Not only do they give you a way to attack bigger, stronger opponents, but they also make your overall game more dynamic and unpredictable.
Start incorporating leg locks into your training, and watch your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu progress skyrocket. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grappler, leg locks can help you unlock your full potential on the mat.
-JH
