Unlocking the Power of Leg Locks: Essential Techniques for BJJ Fighters

Leg locks have become an increasingly important part of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), offering fighters the ability to finish matches quickly and efficiently. In this article, we will explore six essential leg lock techniques that every BJJ fighter should know.

Straight Ankle Lock:

The straight ankle lock, also known as the Achilles lock, is a submission that targets the ankle joint. To perform the straight ankle lock, start in a top position, such as mount or side control, and then control your opponent’s leg by wrapping your arm around their ankle. Next, place your foot on their hip and use your body weight to apply pressure on the ankle joint, causing your opponent to tap.

Kneebar:

The kneebar is a submission that targets the knee joint. To perform the kneebar, start in a top position and then isolate your opponent’s leg. From there, you will want to create a “V” shape with your legs and then use your hips to apply pressure on the knee joint, causing your opponent to tap.

Heel Hook:

The heel hook is a submission that targets the heel and ankle joint. To perform the heel hook, start in a top position and then control your opponent’s leg by wrapping your arm around their heel. Next, place your foot on their hip and use your body weight to apply pressure on the heel and ankle joint, causing your opponent to tap.

Toe Hold:

The toe hold is a submission that targets the foot and ankle joint. To perform the toe hold, start in a top position and then control your opponent’s foot by grabbing their toes. From there, you will want to create a figure-four shape with your arms and then use your body weight to apply pressure on the foot and ankle joint, causing your opponent to tap.

Calf Slicer:

The calf slicer is a submission that targets the calf muscle. To perform the calf slicer, start in a top position and then control your opponent’s leg by wrapping your arm around their calf. Next, use your other leg to create pressure on the calf muscle, causing your opponent to tap.

Inside Sankaku (Triangle) Position:

The inside sankaku, or triangle position, is a submission hold that targets the leg and hip joint. To perform the inside sankaku position, start by trapping your opponent’s leg between your legs while lying on your side. From there, use your legs to create a figure-four shape around your opponent’s leg, and then use your hips to apply pressure on the leg and hip joint, causing your opponent to tap.