Martial Arts Joint Locks
Joint locks are used by many martial arts styles in order to control opponents (i.e. submission techniques) or to disarm aggressors in self-defense situations. Some of the martial arts that that use joint locks significantly include Aikido, Hapkido and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Joint locks work by applying pressure on a joint and pushing it in an “unnatural” direction (i.e. locking an arm and forcing an elbow backward). This restricts an opponent’s movement and/or causes the aggressor to submit due to pain and/or the potential for a hyperextension injury or broken bone.
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Joint Locks by Martial Arts Style – Videos and/or written instructions
- Aikido Joint Locks
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Joint Locks
- Eskrima Joint Locks – These joint locks are often used in conjunction with a Yantok (Eskrima fighting stick) in order to trap or disarm an opponent.
- Hapkido Joint Locks
- Judo Joint Locks
- Jujutsu Joint Locks
- Kung Fu Joint Locks
Martial Arts Joint Locks by Area of Focus – Videos and/or written instructions
- Ankle Locks
- Elbow Locks or Arm Locks
- Finger Locks
- Hip Locks – These joint locks include the Hip Crank.
- Knee Bars
- Leg Locks – This is a general term that covers all of the leg joint techniques such as knee bars, ankle locks, hip locks, etc.
- Neck Locks – These joint locks include the Neck Crank.
- Shoulder Locks
- Spinal Locks – Given the risk of injury, spinal locks are banned by a number of organizations.
- Toe Locks or Toe Holds
- Wrist Locks
Video – Shaolin Joint Locks
Military – Arm Bar Training
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