What is Leg Lock in BJJ?
Quick Definition
A submission attacking the legs, including ankle locks and heel hooks.
Full Explanation
Leg locks attack the lower body - ankles (straight ankle lock), knees (heel hooks, kneebar), and legs (calf slicer). Once considered low-percentage "cheap shots," the leg lock game exploded through competitors like Dean Lister, Eddie Cummings, and Gordon Ryan. IBJJF restricts many leg locks to higher belts, but they're legal at all levels in ADCC. The leg lock "entanglement" positions (ashi garami, saddle) are now fundamental.
Examples in Context
"The modern leg lock game has changed BJJ"
"He caught me in a leg lock before I knew what happened"
Related Terms
Ankle Lock
A leg lock attacking the ankle by extending the foot.
Heel Hook
A devastating leg lock attacking the knee by rotating the heel.
Kneebar
A leg lock that hyperextends the knee joint, similar to an armbar for the leg.
Ashi Garami
A leg entanglement position used to control and attack the legs.
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