### Straight Ankle Lock Technique The Straight Ankle Lock is a fundamental leg lock technique frequently used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, especially in the gi competitions. It primarily targets the ankle and Achilles tendon, applying pressure to force a tap. --- ### Positions - **Position**: Open Guard, Standing - **Top/Bottom**: Typically performed from a **bottom** position but can be transitioned to various top positions after entry. --- ### Japanese Name - **Japanese Name**: - _Ashi-Hishigi_ (足挫, "foot crush" - Note: The specific Japanese name can vary, as not every technique in BJJ has a widely known equivalent. --- ### Step-by-Step Instructions #### From Open Guard 1. **Control the Leg**: - Begin in an open guard position with your opponent standing. - Control one of your opponent's legs by hooking both hands around their ankle. Pull it across your body to off-balance him. 2. **Create the Entry Base**: - Use your foot to push against their hip on the same side as the leg you control. - Ensure your hips are squared with theirs. 3. **Drop to Ashi Garami**: - Sit back, bringing your inside leg through, hooking over their thigh and under, so your foot rests on the opponent’s hip. - Your outside leg should wrap around and across their outside hip or lower back, securing with your instep. 4. **Secure the Ankle**: - Adhere your wrist tightly against their Achilles using a guillotine grip (your arm reaching underneath the Achilles tendon). - Ensure their toes are pinched tightly under your armpit. - Squeeze your elbow towards your ribs, locking their ankle securely in place. 5. **Apply the Lock**: - Arch your back, applying pressure with your hips against the backside of their knee. - Keep your knees pinched close together. - Your opponent should feel significant pressure on their Achilles tendon, prompting them to tap. 6. **Release**: - Upon feeling the tap, immediately release the pressure and assist your opponent in returning to a safe position. --- ### Key Points - Focus on keeping the toes trapped and maintaining tight control over their leg. - Maintain constant pressure and control when performing the ankle lock. - Practicing with a partner is important to understand proper pressure application and timing. --- ### Common Mistakes - Failing to keep the knees pinched together, which can lessen applied pressure. - Allowing the opponent’s toes to point outward, reducing leverage.