Straight Ankle Lock
The Straight Ankle Lock is a foundational leg lock in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling. It targets the ankle joint and Achilles tendon by applying pressure to the foot while immobilizing the leg. This submission is effective, versatile, and one of the first leg locks taught in many grappling systems due to its simplicity and legality at most belt levels in competition.
Key Concepts
Joint Lock and Tendon Compression
- The lock hyperextends the ankle joint while compressing the Achilles tendon against the attacker’s arm or wrist.
Leg Isolation
- Controlling the opponent’s leg and hips is essential for applying the lock effectively.
Leverage and Body Positioning
- Proper alignment of the body and tight control maximize the submission’s pressure.
Execution Steps
Control the Leg
- Secure the opponent’s leg by gripping their ankle and controlling their knee to isolate their lower limb.
Achieve Proper Position
- Place your outside leg across their hip or stomach to trap their leg and prevent them from escaping.
- Your other leg should either hook behind their knee or stay flat to control their lower body.
Secure the Grip
- Wrap your arm around their Achilles tendon, positioning their foot in the crook of your elbow.
- Grip your own hand or wrist in a Figure-Four Grip for added stability.
Apply the Lock
- Extend your hips forward while pulling their foot toward your chest. This creates a lever effect, applying pressure to the Achilles tendon and ankle joint.
Maintain Tight Control
- Keep their leg pinned and your body aligned to maximize pressure and prevent escape.
Common Entries
From Single-Leg X Guard or X Guard
- A common entry for the Straight Ankle Lock, using leg entanglements to control their lower body.
From Butterfly Guard
- Sweep the opponent and isolate their leg to transition into the submission.
From Half Guard
- Attack the lock when the opponent’s leg is extended or exposed during guard retention or passing attempts.
From Closed Guard
- Transition into the Straight Ankle Lock when the opponent stands or extends a leg.
During Guard Passing Defense
- Counter the opponent’s passing attempts by isolating their leg and attacking the lock.
From Standing
- Apply the lock during a failed Takedown or after catching their leg in a Single-Leg Takedown scenario.
During Scrambles
- Capitalize on exposed legs during dynamic exchanges or transitions.
Tips for Success
Control Their Hips
- Prevent the opponent from escaping by immobilizing their hips and leg.
Align Your Body
- Ensure your grip, leg positioning, and hip alignment are tight and precise.
Apply Gradual Pressure
- Slowly extend your hips to avoid injury and allow the opponent time to tap.
Engage Your Entire Body
- Use your core, hips, and back to apply pressure, not just your arms.
Be Ready to Transition
Positioning
The Straight Ankle Lock is most effective when you can dominate the opponent’s Fundamentals/Base and hips while maintaining tight connections to control their leg. Proper leverage and precise application are critical to successfully executing this leg lock.
From Single-Leg X Guard or X Guard
- A classic entry for the Straight Ankle Lock, isolating the opponent’s leg and controlling their hips to prevent escapes.
From Butterfly Guard
- Use sweeps to elevate the opponent and isolate their leg, transitioning into the submission.
From Half Guard
- Attack the Straight Ankle Lock when the opponent’s leg is extended during passing attempts or guard retention.
From Closed Guard
- Transition into the lock when the opponent stands or posts a leg to break your guard.
From De La Riva or Open Guard
- Trap the opponent’s leg during transitions or sweeps to apply the submission.
During Guard Passing Defense
- Counter a Toreando or Guard Passes/Knee Cut pass by isolating the opponent’s leg and applying the lock.
From Standing
- Use the lock during failed Takedowns or after catching the opponent’s leg in a Single-Leg Takedown scenario.
During Scrambles
- Exploit moments when the opponent’s leg is exposed during dynamic exchanges or transitions.
From Mount Bottom or Side Control Bottom
- Transition to the Straight Ankle Lock by inverting or rolling into the opponent’s exposed leg.
From Turtle Control
- Attack the Straight Ankle Lock if the opponent posts or extends a leg while recovering guard.
From North South
- Transition to the submission when the opponent’s legs are exposed during movement or defense.
From Knee on Belly
- If the opponent bridges or pushes your leg, isolate their extended leg and transition into the lock.
From Standing Guard Pass
- Enter the Straight Ankle Lock by isolating the opponent’s leg as they defend or recover guard.
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