Advanced Leg Lock Entries: Systems & Setups

Master advanced leg lock entry systems including ashi garami, saddle, and single-leg X transitions that high-level grapplers use to attack the lower body.

Advanced leg lock entries require understanding positional control, hip alignment, and the specific mechanical advantages that each entry point provides.

The Ashi Garami Entry System

Ashi garami (leg entanglement) is the foundational control position for leg attacks. Entering requires breaking your opponent's base and establishing inside hip control.

Key Entry Points

• From guard: Pull opponent into de la riva, then invert to establish ashi garami
• From top: After failed guard pass, drop to ashi on the near leg
• From scramble: During transitions, whenever you secure an inside position on the leg

Single-Leg X (SLX) Entries

Single-leg X provides exceptional control for heel hooks and kneebars. The key is securing the outside hip position while controlling the foot.

Entry Mechanics

• Establish inside foot-on-hip butterfly hook first
• Slide bottom foot behind opponent's knee as you fall back
• Bring top foot to their hip for full SLX control
• Keep your knees together to maintain position

Outside Heel Hook (OHH) Entry

Outside heel hooks require specific positional control with your knee cutting past the opponent's hip to access the outside.

The 411/Saddle Position

• Both legs thread through opponent's legs like scissors
• Control the far heel with your armpit
• Rotate your body to apply torque to the knee

Inside Heel Hook (IHH) Entry

Inside heel hooks are accessible from standard ashi garami control. The entry is more common in competition due to being lower risk.

• Secure ashi garami with proper inside position
• Control the heel with your opposite-side arm
• Rotate toward the outside of the leg for finishing pressure

Transition Safety Rules

Advanced leg lockers follow strict training protocols to prevent injuries during drilling.

• Always tap early — heel hooks can cause injury before pain is felt
• Drill entries slowly before adding finishing pressure
• Understand IBJJF legal divisions before competing

Drills to Improve Entries

• Penetration step to SLX: 3 sets x 20 reps each side
• Ashi garami entry from de la riva: live drilling with partner
• 411 exchange: alternate between partners transitioning the position