The Rise of Leg Locks: How the Game Has Evolved and What You Need to Know
Introduction: A Revolution Below the Waist
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is constantly evolving—but no shift has shaken the modern game quite like the rise of leg locks. Once considered taboo or even “dirty” techniques in traditional circles, leg attacks are now mainstream staples in competitive BJJ and especially dominant in No-Gi formats.
From ADCC champions to everyday hobbyists, grapplers are now prioritizing foot locks, knee bars, heel hooks, and Ashi Garami positions as essential parts of their arsenal. So what changed—and how should you adapt?
At Seymour Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we’re helping students in Seymour, TN, and surrounding areas like Knoxville and Sevierville understand and integrate these powerful tools with clarity and safety.
The History: From Forbidden to Fundamental
Leg locks were once looked down upon in traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu circles, seen as low-percentage, unsafe, or "cheap." But the rise of No-Gi submission-only competitions, particularly the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club), and the emergence of elite teams like Danaher Death Squad, B-Team, and New Wave Jiu-Jitsu, changed everything.
The success of grapplers like Gordon Ryan, Craig Jones, and Nicky Ryan turned heel hooks and entanglements into household concepts for modern practitioners—and suddenly, leg attacks weren’t taboo—they were necessary.
Understanding the Systems: The Ashi Garami Family
Leg locks aren't about randomly grabbing ankles—they rely on specific entanglement systems that control your opponent’s movement and expose their limbs safely and strategically. Here are a few core positions to know:
Ashi Garami: Basic leg entanglement that sets the foundation
Single-Leg X (SLX): A control position leading to sweeps or attacks
Cross Ashi (Inside Sankaku): Highly effective for inside heel hooks
50/50 Guard: A mutual entanglement with offensive and defensive options
Outside Ashi: A powerful base for attacking the outside heel hook
At Seymour Jiu-Jitsu, we teach these concepts step-by-step, ensuring our students understand when and how to use them—whether you’re preparing for competition or seeking well-rounded self-defense skills.
Are Leg Locks Safe for Hobbyists?
This is one of the most common questions we get from students searching for "BJJ near me" or "MMA gyms near me."
The answer is: Yes—when taught correctly.
Just like any submission, leg locks require proper mechanics, positional control, and mutual respect. At Seymour BJJ, our instructors emphasize:
✅ Safe drilling with clear tapping points
✅ Recognizing danger before injury
✅ Respecting the rules for Gi and No-Gi competitions
✅ Teaching heel hooks only to advanced students, in a controlled setting
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced grappler, understanding leg locks isn't optional anymore—it’s part of becoming a complete martial artist.
Why Hobbyists Should Learn Leg Locks—Even If You Don’t Compete
Even if you’re not preparing for ADCC or IBJJF worlds, leg lock awareness matters. Here's why:
🧠 Defensive intelligence: Knowing how to recognize and escape entanglements keeps you safer
🔁 Well-rounded skillset: Today’s modern grappler needs more than just guard passes and chokes
🧘 Confidence builder: Learning how to control dangerous positions builds mental and emotional resilience
This makes leg lock training ideal for anyone, whether you're a weekend warrior, a full-time competitor, or someone training for self-defense.
We also introduce modified, age-appropriate leg entanglement awareness in our Kids BJJ classes and Homeschool Martial Arts Program.
How Seymour Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy Approaches Leg Locks
As one of the most trusted BJJ gyms near Knoxville, TN, we provide a balanced, systematic approach to leg lock training. Our curriculum includes:
🔍 Technical breakdowns of key entries, finishes, and defenses
💡 Safe progressions for white belts through advanced practitioners
🧩 Integration with full-body positional training, not just leg-only systems
Our classes are open to men, women, and kids of all ages and experience levels. You can see our full class schedule here.
What Students Are Saying
Students from Sevier County, Knox County, and beyond are experiencing firsthand the confidence that comes from modern Jiu-Jitsu training. Check out our reviews page to see real testimonials from parents, competitors, and everyday hobbyists who’ve grown on and off the mat at Seymour Martial Arts Academy.
Ready to Learn the Modern Game?
If you’re searching for:
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu near me
Seymour Jiu-Jitsu
Martial arts near me for adults or kids
BJJ Knoxville TN or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Knoxville TN
…look no further. At Seymour Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we offer safe, structured, and modern training that prepares you for the evolving world of martial arts.
Conclusion: Don’t Get Left Behind
Leg locks aren’t a passing trend—they’re part of the future of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you’re training for competition, fitness, or self-defense, having the ability to understand and safely engage with leg entanglements is key.
📍 Serving Seymour, Knoxville, Sevierville, Maryville, and surrounding areas, our academy is open to anyone ready to level up.
👉 Contact us today to schedule your free trial and take the next step on your Jiu-Jitsu journey.
📰 Want to read more? Visit our BJJ blog hub for technique breakdowns, training tips, and student stories.
👤 Learn more about our school here or meet our founder.
