🥋 Techniques

What is Kneebar in BJJ?

Quick Definition

A leg lock that hyperextends the knee joint, similar to an armbar for the leg.

Full Explanation

The kneebar is a leg submission that hyperextends the knee joint by trapping the opponent's leg and arching your hips against their knee, similar to how an armbar attacks the elbow. It can be entered from many positions including ashi garami, half guard, and during transitions. In IBJJF rules, kneebars are legal from brown belt upward. The kneebar is considered one of the fundamental leg lock submissions alongside heel hooks and ankle locks.

Examples in Context

"He caught the kneebar when I tried to pass"

"Kneebars are legal at brown belt and above in IBJJF"

Related Terms

Leg Lock

A submission attacking the legs, including ankle locks and heel hooks.

Heel Hook

A devastating leg lock attacking the knee by rotating the heel.

Ankle Lock

A leg lock attacking the ankle by extending the foot.

Ashi Garami

A leg entanglement position used to control and attack the legs.

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