The ankle lock, or straight ankle lock (also known as the ‘Achilles lock’), is a highly effective leg-based submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Despite some rules limiting leg lock use, this technique remains a powerful way to finish a match. 

Once the player completes the lock, the opponent has no option but to tap out, signaling the referee to stop the match and declaring a win by submission. 

This blog tackles how to set up the ankle lock, establish proper posture and control, and provide tips on safely defending against this technique. Learn the safety rules and how to execute an ankle lock effectively!

What is the Ankle Lock Bjj Technique?

The Achilles lock is one of the first leg locks taught and encouraged in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. It has evolved with many variations and versions across other combat sports or martial arts genres to adhere to specific BJJ rules.

Many BJJ competitions and grappling matches restrict leg locks due to the high risk of injury. Techniques like the kneebar, toe hold, and heel hook can lead to severe injuries, prompting tournament organizations to establish specific rules around their use. As a result, entry-level competitors, such as white belts for the Gi aspect of the game, are discouraged from doing leg locks during matches.

The Achilles lock, sometimes called the straight lock, is a more functional and safer style than the riskier ones. It’s a finishing move that leaves the opponent with very little chance to recover. 

Knowing the proper mechanics and minor details of ankle locks positions you to face advanced challenges and puts you on par with leg lock specialists Rodrigo Cavaca, Victor Estima, and Dean Lister, who specialize in leg locks in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Judo, and MMA.

Steps to Perform an Ankle Lock

The Achilles lock involves trapping your opponent’s leg and applying pressure to the “Achilles tendon.” When pressure is on this sensitive area, it weakens the opponent and can cause serious injury if they don’t tap out. In such cases, the referee may stop the match and declare a win by submission.

By following certain steps and checking minor details, such as establishing the position and foot-lock control, you can perform Achilles locks with precision and care.

Establish Position & Control the foot.

Establishing proper position and foot control is crucial before executing an ankle lock. These are the foundations of the submission. 

Good positioning requires navigating through foot locks and leg entanglements, ensuring you’re in control before applying pressure. When establishing your base position, consider the following:

• Is your body aligned with your opponent?
• Can you sit up or launch to the side?
• Is your weight evenly distributed or concentrated on one side?
• Are your palms, not your elbows, creating the base of your posture?

Setup the ankle lock

The key to effectively setting up and successfully executing the ankle lock with minimal resistance from your opponent is to combine these elements: grip, position, and applying pressure.

• Grip: Start by securing a firm grip on your opponent’s foot or leg. This grip sets up your control and gives you leverage to execute the lock.
• Position: Step in and place your foot on your opponent’s leg while falling onto your side. One leg should be on the outside. Extend your back as far as possible, maintaining control of your opponent’s foot. This is often referred to as the Ashi Garami position, and it provides you with stability and leverage.
• Apply Pressure on the Toe: Lock the foot in place by applying your weight to the opponent’s toe or toenail area. This prevents them from resisting. Focus on turning the foot sideways rather than pushing it straight back, as curving it outward weakens their ability to defend against the lock.

Perform the Lock 

The final stage of executing an ankle lock requires precision and control. Applying pressure is crucial but must be done with the right timing and direction.

• Lock and Rotate: As you rotate your opponent’s foot, step back quickly to increase the pressure on their ankle. This added tension forces the submission.
• Adjust for Defense: If your opponent resists, scoot further back to maintain the pressure. This adjustment helps counter their defense and keeps the lock intact.
• Maintain Control: The entire technique hinges on control. Success comes from applying the right amount of pressure at the correct angle. If pressure and alignment are off, the technique might fail or lead to injury.

Control is everything in this technique—it determines whether you secure the submission or risk losing it.

When Should I Use an Ankle Lock?

Whether you call it an ankle lock, straight lock, or Achilles lock, the technique’s effectiveness relies on your understanding of control and timing when to apply pressure. Recognizing your opponent’s vulnerable points, such as the joints and tendons of the foot, is key.

Once you fully grasp the core principles of ankle locks, you can spot the right moments to apply them.

Submission

When your opponent’s legs are exposed, a well-executed ankle lock is a powerful submission tool, especially from positions like ashi-garami or 50/50 guard. The intense pressure can quickly force a tap-out.

Controlling the Opponent

When you need solid control, isolate the leg during the ankle lock. When the opponent is controlled, you can reverse attacks and open up options for countering and escaping.

Transition to Other Leg Hooks

When transitioning to leg hooks, toe holds, or kneebars, the ankle lock is an effective tool for maintaining constant pressure on your opponent, keeping them off balance, and preventing escapes.

Defending Against an Ankle Lock

Here’s a bonus tip: Anticipating your opponent’s skill level is crucial in advanced grappling. It helps protect you and enables you to counter with defensive techniques when you’re at a disadvantage, allowing you to reverse the move and regain the upper hand.

1. Learn Steps and Tricks to Escape: Create distance to make it harder for them to secure the lock.
2. Defensive Techniques to Avoid Getting Locked: Keep your knee line clear of your opponent’s grip and stay aware of potential leg entanglements.
3. Protecting Yourself from Possible Submission: Create distance to break the opponent’s control. Use your free leg to push off or grip your opponent’s hands. These actions can help you escape from an ankle lock attempt.

Conclusion

The ankle lock is not just a submission; it’s a powerful control technique in BJJ. Mastering both the offensive and defensive aspects of the ankle lock provides a significant competitive edge. Regularly practicing ankle lock drills with an emphasis on proper form helps minimize the risk of injury, particularly to the ankle and Achilles tendon. Understanding when and how to apply the ankle lock safely, whether in training or competition, is crucial for protecting your partners while promoting responsible and skilled grappling progression.