Nate LaMotte of Burgess MMA with the wrist lock. Follow on Instagram @youtalkwetrain
The wrist lock is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu technique that stands out among joint locks targeting the elbows, knees, shoulders, and ankles.
Although it is not as popular as other techniques, the wrist lock is highly effective for submissions by forcing the wrist joints into a limited and weak position. It presents unique challenges, including maintaining safety while executing the move with precision and balance.
When performed with care, precision, and confidence, wrist locks can be a game-changer, providing both positional control and a strategic edge.
This article explores the key elements of wrist locks, their mechanics, the ideal moments to apply them, and safe practice techniques.
What is a Wrist Lock Technique
Wrist locks are a fundamental part of Jiu-Jitsu and traditional Japanese martial arts. However, due to safety concerns and the potential for severe wrist injuries, practitioners approach them cautiously.
Executing a wrist lock BJJ confidently involves three core mechanics: the setup, the actual lock, and the supporting transitions or attacks. These foundational steps give rise to various strategies and wrist lock variations in BJJ.
The Set Up
The setup for a wrist lock is more complex than it appears. The key element in the set is timing, closing the gap, and staying in close contact with your opponent. Confidence is also key because if the opponent notices even an inch of hesitation, they will attempt to counter it and escape the lock.
The Actual Locking Movement
The wrist lock is a swift movement that requires precise angles and positioning to apply the right pressure, bringing the opponent to their physical limits. This precision is what makes the technique practical.
The Supporting Transitions
Unlike the traditional wrist lock from a standing position, as seen in Aikido—where the opponent submits or is brought to their knees—BJJ wrist locks can be more dangerous if the opponent tries to escape. In Gi BJJ, having clothing to grip requires you to control the opponent’s free arm, legs, or hips to secure the wrist lock effectively.
Purpose and The Goal: How does a wrist lock work?
Wrist locks in BJJ are used not only for submission but also as escapes and counter techniques.
In BJJ Gi, wrist locks are widely used due to the prevalence of grips, a technique influenced by traditional Japanese martial arts like Judo and Aikido, which also rely on the Gi. In contrast, No-Gi wrist locks are less emphasized because of the lack of grips. However, their effectiveness lies in targeting the opponent’s physical limitations.
When executed thoughtfully, they can disrupt an opponent’s balance and intercept their next move, such as passing the guard or attempting a takedown.
When do you use a wrist lock?
Wrist locks are practical due to their accessibility and ability to disrupt an opponent’s balance and control. Depending on the attack situation, a sudden change in the opponent’s movement or tactics can trigger your intuition, requiring you to decide instinctively when to apply the wrist lock.
- From standing: The standing wrist lock is a common technique where you grip the opponent’s wrist while maintaining a safe distance. With precise timing, you twist the wrist toward their open fingers in a downward direction, applying pressure and causing pain. This often forces the opponent to kneel or lose balance.
- From Armbar: The wrist lock from an armbar is a counter-technique that requires confidence and quick reflexes. To execute, focus on applying pressure to the opponent’s elbow as they attempt to escape the armbar. Lean in to pin their elbow and arm. Use this moment to grab their wrist, twisting it toward your chin or neck with your free hand.
- From closed guard: From the closed guard position, close the gap between you and your opponent. They may try to counter your guard by attempting a mount or another lock. Wait for the right moment to establish close contact with their arm. Secure their wrist using a Nikyo or Phoenix grip, then precisely execute the lock. Timing and control are key to successfully applying this technique.
- From side control: When your opponent attempts to amount, you can integrate a wrist lock to escape and reverse the situation. Transition to side control by first pinning down the arm and elbow. Maintain control of the wrist joint, applying pressure to the thumb in the opposite direction of the pressure on the elbow. This creates an opportunity to secure your position before transitioning to a more dominant control.
Types of Wrist Locks
Many variations of wrist locks in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originate from traditional martial arts, and they closely resemble those practiced in Japanese Jiu Its, Judo, and Aikido.
Wrist locks demonstrate precision and control in targeting an opponent. This technique is most effective when combined with simultaneous attacks or counters, as seen in the various wrist locks practiced in BJJ.
Here are the ones commonly practiced and taught to JJ practitioners and students.
- Cat Paw Grip: This is a fundamental type of wrist lock in which the standard grip is used to isolate the wrist to control and manipulate, inflicting discomfort on the opponent.
- Push to the ground: This is a west lock technique in which the opponent is pushed. The direction transition is simultaneously applied with the lock and grip on the opponent’s wrist, bringing them to their limiting position. This is also true of the Kotegaiesh of Aikido.
- Elbow Drive: This technique combines wrist control with pressure applied on the elbow; it resembles the Nikyo wrist lock from Aikido when the attacker controls the opponent from side control, anchoring the wrist lock with the control on the elbow by pining the elbow.
- Wrist lock kick: This wrist lock technique engages the lower body when the opponent attempts a butterfly grip on your leg in an attempt to sweep or take your own. Instead, you counter that knee grip by locking the opponent’s wrist and escaping.
Variations from Popular Grapplers
BJJ techniques constantly evolve, and one that has seen significant development is the wrist lock. This evolution is evident in the various innovative variations popularized by renowned BJJ experts.
- Americana Wrist Lock: A technique that combines wrist control with the mechanics of the Americana, offering a dynamic approach to submission.
- By Famico Elder: Precision and mastery in joint manipulation are the skills that Elder emphasized in this variation.
- By Fabiano Scherner: Renowned for its effectiveness in competition, this approach brings strength and control to the wrist lock game.
Are Wrist Locks Legal?
It depends; check with your tournament provider. In some cases, yes, wrist locks are legal in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, but their application requires careful consideration to ensure safety and compliance with competition rules.
Despite their legality, there is an ongoing debate within the community. The hesitation to fully embrace wrist locks as legal techniques stem from the high risk of injury. Due to the wrist’s vulnerability and limited range of motion, it is easily damaged, making this technique a concern.
Here are a few key points to remember when using wristlocks in competitions and training.
- Understanding Joint Vulnerability: Wrists are delicate joints. Unlike other submissions targeting larger muscles or bones, wrist locks require precision and care to avoid unnecessary injury.
- Know the Rules of Your BJJ Organization: Some rules around wrist locks vary depending on the school or the BJJ sports organization you are part of. For instance, some would allow wrist locks for competitors who had reached a blue belt or higher. Always confirm the rules first before using this technique in competitions.
- Gi vs. No-Gi Preferences: Wrist locks tend to be more common in G BJJ due to the reliance on grips and clothing for control. In contrast, No-Gi BJJ often emphasizes athleticism and positional dominance, making wrist locks less prominent.
Essential Techniques for Effective Wristlocks
Executing wrist locks mindfully and expertly requires dedicated practice and awareness. Here are strategies to ensure effectiveness. Worst locks must be practiced with focus and respect to their mechanics to prioritize safety while integrating the techniques into fighting and grappling.
Practice with a Partner
Getting feedback from a training partner is the only way to scale your wrist lock effectively. Having real-time feedback and someone to learn with amplifies your understanding, and you can apply your observations immediately, especially when you are fine-tuning your moves.
Continuous Training
Wrist Locks are among the BJJ techniques often related to techniques with high risks. Thus, the skill requires mastery. Repeated and regular practice builds muscle memory and enhances your ability to wrist lock fluidly without taking time to angle and position. Once you have practiced wrist locks many times, they will be second nature to you, and you will also build proper control to do this in a competition.
Conclusion
Wristlock techniques enhance your confidence by improving your control and grappling skills. The safety precautions involved highlight the mastery required to execute them effectively. While not suitable for beginners, wrist locks are a milestone for BJJ practitioners dedicated to improving their skills. Consistent practice and learning advanced techniques like wrist locks build expertise, expand skillsets, and elevate overall strategy.