

147: Finishing Leg Locks
Aug 17, 2025
Dive into the art of leg locks, starting with the nuances of heel hooks and ankle locks. Discover advanced techniques like the achilles grip, and learn the importance of body positioning in executing these submissions effectively. The conversation also examines the dynamics of control during leg lock exchanges. Personal stories offer insights into mastering these skills, and there's even a funny tale about transitioning from gi to no-gi training. Perfect for grapplers looking to elevate their game!
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Brown Belt Fixes Josh's Heel Hook Finish
- Josh and his training partner kept slipping out of heel hooks until a brown belt showed them a shoulder-based finish.
- The tip changed Josh's view from rotating with the upper body to crunching in tight before breaking.
Blend Upper And Lower Body For The Finish
- Position your torso between elbow and shoulder to combine upper- and lower-body force when finishing heel hooks.
- Avoid being fully on elbow or shoulder; use a tricep/posture with shoulder off the mat to rotate and drive with legs.
Choose Attack By Foot Position
- If the opponent's foot is close to your ribs, favor an achilles/straight-ankle attack to maintain connection.
- If the foot is floating away from your body, prioritize heel-hook entries for better heel exposure.