β BJJ Wrist Locks
This technique carries a high risk of serious injury, especially to the wrist joint. Do not attempt without qualified instructor supervision. Beginners should build fundamental grappling skills first.
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Learn BJJ wrist locks: how to apply them from guard, mount, and standing, why they work as surprise submissions, and safety considerations.
Why Wrist Locks Are Underused
Wrist locks are legal at all IBJJF belt levels yet are massively underused β making them high-percentage surprise submissions. Because defenders rarely train wrist lock defense, a well-timed wrist lock often catches black belts.
Common Wrist Lock Setups
| Position | Setup | Application |
|---|---|---|
| From Guard | They post hand on your stomach | Grab wrist, fold fingers back, rotate |
| From Mount | They frame against your hips | Trap the wrist against your thigh and fold |
| From Side Control | Near arm extended | Figure-four the wrist while controlling |
| Standing (Clinch) | Grip break attempt | Redirect their grip into a wrist fold |
The Mechanics
All wrist locks work by hyperextending or rotating the wrist joint beyond its natural range of motion. The key is controlling the elbow β if the elbow is controlled, the wrist cannot escape the torque.
Safety Note
Frequently Asked Questions
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Get Free Access βMore Questions
Are wrist locks legal in BJJ competitions?
Wrist locks are legal in most IBJJF and ADCC rulesets for adult colored belts (blue and above). However, they are typically forbidden in white belt divisions and for younger competitors due to the risk of injury.
What is the difference between a kimura and a wrist lock?
While both attacks target the arm, a kimura is a shoulder lock that uses a figure-four grip to hyperextend the shoulder. A wrist lock, on the other hand, targets the wrist joint itself, often by bending it in a way it's not designed to move.
How do I defend against a wrist lock?
The primary defense is to keep your wrist straight and avoid allowing your opponent to isolate and bend it. Maintaining a strong grip and immediately attacking their base or posture can also disrupt their setup for a wrist lock.