guards half guard blue Belt

How to Do the Lockdown Half Guard in BJJ

★★★☆☆ Difficulty 3/5
📍 From: half guard
🎯 To: half guard

The lockdown double overhooks the trapped leg locking their foot between your legs. From the 10th Planet system, it prevents guard passing and sets up the electric chair and various sweeps.

Key Details to Master

  1. 1 Hook outside foot over their trapped ankle
  2. 2 Figure-four your legs by hooking other foot over first
  3. 3 Double overhook locks leg in place
  4. 4 Stretch leg by extending lockdown outward
  5. 5 Use stretch to set up sweeps and electric chair

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ⚠️ Not hooking deep enough over ankle
  • ⚠️ Figure-four too loose
  • ⚠️ Not stretching to create offense
  • ⚠️ Staying without transitioning to attacks
  • ⚠️ Getting crossfaced while holding lockdown

🔄 Variations

  • Electric chair entry
  • Old school sweep
  • Lockdown to dogfight
  • Lockdown to whip sweep

🛡️ Counters & Defenses

  • Strip lockdown by pushing on top knee
  • Crossface to prevent underhook
  • Prevent figure-four lock
  • Backstep to free leg

Track Your Lockdown Half Guard Progress

Log every time you practice the Lockdown Half Guard and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What belt level should I be to learn the Lockdown Half Guard?

The Lockdown Half Guard is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.

Does this work in both gi and no-gi?

The Lockdown Half Guard works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.

How do I set up the Lockdown Half Guard?

The Lockdown Half Guard is typically executed from half guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.