Comprehensive Guide to Joint Locks
What is a Joint Lock?
A joint lock is a submission technique used in grappling martial arts to manipulate an opponent’s joints by applying controlled force. These submissions primarily target the elbows, shoulders, wrists, knees, and ankles, limiting movement and creating a breaking point if the opponent does not submit. Joint locks are widely used in BJJ, Judo, Aikido, and MMA due to their effectiveness in controlling opponents and forcing submissions.
Types of Joint Locks in BJJ & MMA
1. Armbar
One of the most well-known joint locks, the armbar focuses on hyperextending the elbow. It is commonly executed from guard, mount, and even standing transitions. Key points include:
- Controlling the opponent’s wrist and isolating their arm.
- Positioning the legs correctly to prevent escapes.
- Applying controlled force to extend the elbow joint.
2. Kimura Lock
The Kimura is a double-joint lock that isolates the shoulder and elbow, making it a versatile attack from side control, guard, or even standing positions. Key aspects:
- Utilizing a figure-four grip to secure the opponent’s arm.
- Applying rotational pressure to the shoulder joint.
- Using leverage to break defensive grips.
3. Americana Lock
The Americana is another bent-arm shoulder lock that is typically applied from mount or side control. Execution involves:
- Controlling the opponent’s wrist and securing a figure-four grip.
- Pressuring the elbow and wrist to torque the shoulder.
- Gradually increasing pressure until submission is achieved.
4. Wrist Locks
Wrist locks are subtle but highly effective submissions used in both gi and no-gi grappling. They work by applying pressure on the small joints of the wrist to force a tap-out. Important details:
- Commonly applied from the clinch, guard, or side control.
- Require precise control to prevent slipping.
- Often used as a setup for other submissions.
5. Leg & Ankle Locks
Leg locks target the knee and ankle joints, making them powerful submissions in no-gi grappling and MMA. Popular variations include:
- Heel Hook: A twisting lock that applies torque to the knee.
- Straight Ankle Lock: A hyperextension of the ankle joint.
- Knee Bar: Similar to the armbar, but applied to the knee joint.
Joint Lock Strategies & Transitions
Successfully applying joint locks requires precise positioning and control. Common positions for joint locks include:
- Mount: Americanas and armbars are frequently set up from here.
- Side Control: The Kimura and Americana are dominant options.
- Guard: Armbars, Kimuras, and wrist locks can be executed from closed and open guard.
- Standing: Kimura grips and wrist locks can transition into takedowns or submissions.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Poor Isolation: If the opponent’s limb is not fully controlled, they can escape before pressure is applied.
- Forcing the Lock: Instead of muscling through resistance, transition to another technique if needed.
- Ignoring Proper Positioning: A well-executed joint lock requires a strong base and tight control.
How to Improve Your Joint Lock Game
- Drill with Resistance: Practicing joint locks under live resistance builds precision.
- Study High-Level Grapplers: Watching top competitors refine their joint locks improves technique understanding.
- Develop a Submission Chain: Combining joint locks with sweeps and transitions makes them harder to counter.
