### Overview The heel hook is a highly effective and potentially dangerous leg lock submission often used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and other grappling arts. This submission targets the opponent's ankle and ligaments around the knee, applying a twisting motion that can lead to immediate tap-outs if applied correctly. ### Positions - **Position**: Open Guard - **Position**: Ashi Garami (Leg Entanglement) - **Position**: 50/50 Guard ### Japanese Name - **Japanese Name**: N/A ### Technique Description #### **1. Starting in Open Guard (Ashi Garami Enter):** - Begin by controlling your opponent's legs from an open guard position. - Reach forward and grab the opponent's heel with your closest hand. - At the same time, use your free hand to underhook their opposite leg, creating space to slide your own same-side leg under their thigh (deep hook). - Use this hook to invert and align your body perpendicular to their leg, getting into an Ashi Garami position (a primary leg entanglement). #### **2. Establishing Control in 50/50 Guard:** - Transition your heel hook setup into the 50/50 guard by entwining your legs around their leg, positioning each person so they are facing opposite directions. - Use your arm to continue controlling their foot by cupping their heel. - Use your other hand to stabilize their knee, ensuring that it doesn't rotate or escape. #### **3. Setting Up the Heel Hook:** - For a classic heel hook, underhook their heel using your near arm. - Pinch your elbows tightly to trap the heel in a controlled space so they can't twist out. - Ensure your gripping hand is controlling just above their toes, securing the foot. #### **4. Executing the Submission:** - Apply a slight pull with your grip on the heel, engaging glutes and hips for added pressure. - Simultaneously rotate your body perpendicular to their knee joint while maintaining the grip tight. - Focus on twisting your opponent’s foot to one side, keeping your body weight centered over their leg. - Pay close attention to the sensitivity of the position; apply force slowly to ensure safe compliance and avoid injury. ### Safety Precautions - Always conduct this technique in controlled environments with attentive partners. - Recognize early resistance or any tap signals to cease applying pressure immediately. ### Japanese Name - **Japanese Name**: N/A