The Modernization of Leg Locks: Safe, Smart, and Essential for Today’s Grappler
For years, leg locks carried a reputation as “dangerous” or “dirty” techniques — something to be avoided or reserved only for advanced practitioners. But times have changed. The modern grappling era, led by innovators from systems like 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, has proven that leg locks are not only safe to train, but also a fundamental part of a complete submission game.
At 10th Planet Parker, we’re passionate about demystifying leg locks and showing students how, when trained properly, they are no more dangerous than an armbar or kimura.
💡 From Taboo to Technical Mastery
Not long ago, traditional Jiu Jitsu schools restricted leg attacks, often banning them outright at lower belt levels. The belief was that they were too risky or difficult to control. But what the modern era of No-Gi grappling revealed is that ignorance — not leg locks themselves — was the real danger.
By removing leg locks from the curriculum, many grapplers lacked both the offensive understanding to apply them safely and the defensive skills to escape them. This created fear, not education.
Now, with technical systems like Ashi Garami, Inside Sankaku, and Outside Heel Hook mechanics being clearly defined and taught step-by-step, leg locks have evolved into one of the most intelligent and controlled aspects of grappling.
🧠 Safety Through Knowledge and Control
At 10th Planet Parker, safety starts with understanding. Our approach focuses on:
Clear positional hierarchy: Students learn safe entries and exits before submissions.
Controlled finishes: Every leg entanglement emphasizes stability and tap awareness.
Mutual respect: Partners communicate constantly — no ego, no reckless twisting.
Incremental progression: Beginners focus on straight ankle locks and positional control before advancing to heel hooks.
When leg locks are taught with precision and accountability, they become one of the most predictable and low-risk submissions in grappling.
⚙️ Why Every Modern Grappler Needs Leg Locks
The reality is, the competitive landscape has changed. Every major grappling organization — from ADCC to local No-Gi tournaments — now rewards leg lock proficiency. Avoiding them doesn’t make training safer; it simply leaves a massive gap in your skill set.
Training leg locks responsibly gives you:
A complete submission arsenal
Enhanced defensive awareness
Better body control and balance
Confidence in any entanglement
🥋 Our Philosophy: Education Over Fear
We don’t just teach leg locks — we teach the context behind them. At 10th Planet Parker, every student learns to respect the joint, understand the mechanics, and train with control.
The goal is never to “crank” or “rip” a submission — it’s to develop technical fluency that keeps both partners safe while pushing the boundaries of modern Jiu Jitsu.
Leg locks aren’t dangerous. Training without knowledge is.
📍 Train Modern, Train Smart
If you’re ready to learn the most up-to-date and battle-tested leg lock systems in a safe, structured environment, come train with us at 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Parker.
💻 Book a class or free trial
📍 9313 E Pioneer Road, Parker, CO
📸 @10pparker
