BJJ Wrist Locks β Complete System Guide
β°Contents
Master BJJ wrist locks from all positions. Learn setup mechanics, legal considerations, and how to integrate wrist attacks into your game.
This technique carries a high risk of serious injury, especially to the knee or ankle. Do not attempt without qualified instructor supervision. Beginners should build fundamental skills before training leg locks.
Wrist locks (kotegaeshi in Japanese martial arts) are among the most versatile and often overlooked submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Legal in gi competition for blue belt and above in many rule sets, wrist locks can be applied from virtually any position and often catch opponents completely off guard, especially those who focus exclusively on arm, leg, and neck attacks.
Mechanics of Effective Wrist Locks
All wrist lock variations exploit the limited range of motion in the wrist joint. The fundamental principle: isolate the hand, control the wrist with both of your hands, and apply rotational force beyond the joint's range while maintaining control of the arm. The two primary attacks are: (1) bending the wrist backward (dorsal flexion) and (2) rotating the wrist in external rotation while extended. Both require precise grip positioning.
Guard-Based Wrist Locks
Wrist locks integrate naturally into closed guard attacks. When an opponent posts their hand on your hip to stand up or maintain posture, grab their hand with both of yours, pull the hand toward you while pressing down, and rotate outward. This attack happens fast and gives little time to defend. Also effective from spider guard when controlling the sleeves β transition from sleeve control to hand control and apply.
Top Position Wrist Locks
From mount, side control, and knee on belly, the opponent's hands are often posted for framing or grip fighting. These posts create wrist lock opportunities. From mount, when they post a hand to bump or bridge, grab the hand and apply pressure before they can pull it back. The speed of application makes top-position wrist locks extremely effective.
Wrist Locks from Standing
In self-defense and MMA contexts, wrist locks from standing create immediate compliance. When an opponent grabs your collar or chest, trap their hand against your body and apply rotational wrist pressure. Competition application includes snap-down attempts β when an opponent's hand lands on your head or neck during a snap-down, transition immediately to a wrist lock.
The Invisible Wrist Lock
The term 'invisible wrist lock' describes wrist locks that appear from seemingly innocuous positions β opponent doesn't realize the attack is coming until it's applied. Common set-up: normal guard grip fighting to establish a wrist grip, transition to lock while they focus on posture recovery or a different submission defense. The element of surprise is the wrist lock's greatest asset.
Rules and Competitions Considerations
Wrist lock legality varies significantly between organizations and belt levels. IBJJF allows wrist locks in gi competition from blue belt up. Many no-gi organizations and submission-only events also permit them. Always verify the specific ruleset before competition. When applying wrist locks in training, apply gradually β wrist injuries occur quickly and can be severe.
π‘ Key Takeaways
- Apply wrist locks when opponents post their hands β these are the highest percentage setups
- Practice wrist lock mechanics slowly before adding speed β wrist injuries happen fast
- Combine wrist lock threats with armbar and kimura attacks to create dilemmas
- Study your competition ruleset β wrist lock legality varies by organization and belt level