How to Do the Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook in BJJ
The outside ashi garami heel hook is a devastating leg lock that attacks the knee ligaments by rotating the heel while controlling the leg in an outside ashi configuration. Your legs control from the outside of their thigh, giving you superior leverage to prevent escape while finishing the heel hook.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Secure outside ashi garami with your legs controlling from outside their hip
- 2 Trap the foot in your armpit and grip the heel with both hands
- 3 Your top leg crosses over their thigh to prevent hip escape
- 4 Rotate the heel by turning your body like opening a book
- 5 Break at an angle twisting the knee joint
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not controlling the hip with your legs allowing escape
- ⚠️ Gripping the ankle instead of cupping the heel
- ⚠️ Twisting the foot straight instead of at an angle
- ⚠️ Top leg not blocking the hip allowing them to turn
- ⚠️ Attempting without proper outside ashi control first
🔄 Variations
- → With backside 50-50 entry
- → From single leg X transition
- → With body lock
- → Estima lock transition
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Boot the leg free before the grip is set
- → Turn the knee to follow the rotation
- → Enter leg entanglement and counter-attack
- → Straighten the leg to prevent the rotation
Track Your Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook Progress
Log every time you practice the Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook 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 Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook? ▼
The Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook is typically introduced at the purple belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Refining your personal game. Developing expertise in preferred positions.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook 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 Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook? ▼
The Outside Ashi Garami Heel Hook is typically executed from ashi garami. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.