### Ankle Lock: A Step-by-Step Guide The ankle lock is a powerful submission technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), focusing on leveraging the opponent's ankle to force a submission. This technique is typically executed using leverage and body mechanics, making it a favorite among grapplers of all levels. **Position:** - **Starting Position:** The initiation of the ankle lock can come from various positions. Most commonly: - Open Guard - Butterfly Guard **Japanese Name:** N/A ### Step-by-Step Instructions #### 1. **Achieve the Right Position** - Begin in the **open guard** or **butterfly guard** with your opponent grounded. - Control one of your opponent’s legs, ensuring you have a solid grip on their ankle. #### 2. **Enter the Leg** - Slide your outside leg over their thigh and hook their far leg to maintain control. - Thread your other leg between the opponent's legs, placing your foot on their hip. #### 3. **Secure the Ankle** - Secure the opponent's ankle by wrapping your arm around it, using the blade of your forearm against their Achilles. - Ensure your elbow is close to your ribs for maximum leverage. #### 4. **Grip Adjustment** - Use your free hand to control your opponent’s foot, placing it tightly against your body. - Ensure a solid grip by having your wrist aligned with their Achilles tendon, cranking downward. #### 5. **Establish the Lock Properly** - Use your hands to grip your opponent's foot, positioning it at your hip. - Keep the top of their foot snug under your armpit. #### 6. **Apply Pressure to Finish** - Lean back and apply pressure by extending your body. - Simultaneously, arch your back while pushing their foot slightly forward with your hip. - Maintain constant pressure until your opponent taps. ### Key Tips - **Control:** Control is key. Always manage the opponent’s leg positioning to ensure they can’t escape. - **Leverage:** Utilize your body weight and back muscles to enhance the power of the lock. - **Safety:** Always be mindful of your training partner. The ankle lock can cause injury if done too harshly. ### Conclusion Mastering the ankle lock requires rhythm and balance between defensive guard play and offensive attacks from the guard. It’s a testament to BJJ’s efficiency that a technique can quickly turn defense into an opportunity for submission.