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.

Amazon - Books on Joint Lock Techniques

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