The Rise of Leg Locks Should You Be Training Them?

Leg locks were considered a controversial part of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for years. Some traditionalists viewed them as “cheap” or even dangerous, while others believed they had no place in the art. However, the modern evolution of BJJ has shattered that mindset. Today, leg locks are an essential part of the game, and those who ignore them risk falling behind.

So, should you be training leg locks? The short answer is yes—but with the right approach. This guide will explore why leg locks have become so popular, their effectiveness in modern BJJ, and how you can safely incorporate them into your training.

Key Takeaways

• Leg locks are now a fundamental part of modern BJJ—ignoring them disadvantages you.
• Learning leg locks helps offensively and defensively, making your game more complete.
• Leg locks can be trained safely with proper instruction, control, and awareness.
• Integrating leg locks into your game will make you a more dangerous and well-rounded grappler.

The Evolution of Leg Locks in BJJ

Leg locks weren’t always as widely accepted in BJJ as they are today. Traditionally, BJJ focused heavily on upper-body control—passing guard, securing dominant positions, and hunting for submissions like armbars, triangles, and chokes.

However, a new wave of grapplers revolutionized the sport in the past decade by proving that leg locks could be as effective as traditional attacks. This shift was largely influenced by:

• John Danaher’s “Leg Lock System” introduced a structured and systematic approach to leg attacks.
• Gordon Ryan and the Danaher Death Squad (DDS), who dominated competitions using leg locks.
• The rise of submission-only tournaments, where leg locks became a key factor in winning matches.
• ADCC and No-Gi BJJ, where leg attacks became a major part of the metagame.

As a result, leg locks are no longer an afterthought. They are a must-know skill for modern grapplers in gi and no-gi competition.

Why You Should Be Training Leg Locks

1. Leg Locks Are Highly Effective

Leg locks attack an opponent’s weakest joint—the knee or ankle. Unlike upper-body submissions that require passing the guard and controlling the torso, leg locks allow you to attack directly from various positions, including open guard.

If executed properly, this makes them one of the fastest ways to finish a fight.

2. You Need to Know Them for Defense

Even if you don’t want to focus on leg locks, you must learn how to defend them. As leg locks become more popular, more of your training partners and competition opponents will use them. You'll be at a serious disadvantage if you don’t understand how to escape or counter them.

3. They Work at All Levels of Competition

From white belt to black belt, and from local tournaments to ADCC, leg locks are proving to be an essential tool. While certain leg attacks (like heel hooks) are restricted at lower levels, learning straight ankle locks, kneebars, and toe holds can give you a competitive edge early on.

4. They Force Opponents to Respect Your Guard

A strong leg lock game makes your guard more dangerous. When opponents fear leg attacks, they hesitate to pressure pass, giving you more control over the match's pace.

This is why many modern grapplers use leg locks as both a submission threat and a tactical tool to set up sweeps, back takes, or traditional upper-body attacks.

Common Myths About Leg Locks

“Leg Locks Are Too Dangerous”

Leg locks, like any submission, are only dangerous if applied recklessly. With proper technique and controlled training, leg locks can be as safe as armbars or chokes. The key is to:

• Learn from experienced instructors.
• Apply submissions gradually, giving your training partner time to tap.
• Never crank on a submission, especially heel hooks.

“Leg Locks Are Just for No-Gi”

While leg locks gained popularity in no-gi, they are also highly effective in gi BJJ. Many high-level competitors successfully incorporate ankle locks, kneebars, and toe holds into their GI game.

“You Shouldn’t Train Leg Locks Until You’re a Higher Belt”

This outdated belief is changing. Many modern gyms introduce safe and controlled leg lock training at early belt levels. Learning them early helps you develop both offensive and defensive awareness, preventing you from getting caught in them later.

How to Train Leg Locks Safely and Effectively

If you’re new to leg locks, it’s important to approach them with structure and safety in mind. Here’s how you can start training them properly:

1. Learn the Fundamentals First

Before diving into heel hooks and complex setups, start with basic IBJJF-legal submissions, such as:

• Straight ankle lock (legal for white belts and up).
• Kneebar (legal for brown belts and up).
• Toe hold (legal for brown belts and up).

Once you’re comfortable with these, you can gradually move into more advanced leg attacks.

2. Develop a Strong Leg Lock Defense

If you’re training leg locks, you must also focus on escaping and countering them. A strong leg lock defense includes:

• Recognizing danger zones before your opponent gets control.
• Learning how to clear your knee line to escape heel hooks.
• Understanding when to tap to avoid unnecessary injuries.

3. Train With Partners Who Have Good Control

Leg locks require trust. When rolling, train with partners who apply submissions gradually and safely. Avoid training leg locks with reckless partners who lack control.

4. Integrate Leg Locks Into Your Overall Game

Leg locks shouldn’t be your only focus. Instead, integrate them as part of a well-rounded game. Some of the best BJJ competitors use leg locks to set up sweeps, back takes, or upper-body submissions.

Conclusion

Leg locks are no longer just a trend but a permanent and powerful part of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Ignoring them means falling behind in an ever-evolving sport. Whether you want to use them to finish fights, control opponents, or defend against leg attacks, training leg locks is essential.

At RollBliss, we know that the right training, paired with the right gear, makes all the difference. Whether drilling leg locks or perfecting your guard game, our high-quality BJJ gis and apparel gives you the durability and comfort needed to train at your best.

If you haven’t started training leg locks, now is the time. Embrace the evolution of BJJ, train smart, and sharpen your game.

FAQs

Are leg locks legal in IBJJF competitions?

Yes, but it depends on the belt level. Straight ankle locks are legal for white belts and up, while knee bars, toe holds, and heel hooks are only allowed at brown and black belt levels in no-gi.

Can leg locks work in GI BJJ?

Absolutely! While heel hooks are illegal in the gi, attacks like ankle locks, kneebars, and toe holds are highly effective and commonly used at all levels.

What’s the safest way to start training leg locks?

Begin with basic straight ankle locks, focus on positional control before submissions, and always train with partners who have good control and awareness.