Setup and Pivot Defense
The instructor establishes a sankaku (triangle) position using a shimmy lizard control. When the opponent attempts to pivot behind the practitioner, foot placement becomes critical—the defender must prevent their foot from being elevated onto the opponent's hip, which would compromise the position.
Transition to Reverse Triangle
As the opponent circles to escape behind, the practitioner releases the shimmy lizard and bails out by spinning their heel inside the opponent's body. This heel placement traps the opponent's arm in a reverse triangle formation, creating a secondary lock regardless of whether a choke or compression is applied.
Grip Conversion and Positioning
From the reverse triangle, the practitioner secures the opponent's arm using a two-on-one grip on the wrist, then tilts to pull the opponent off to the side by lifting. This lateral displacement sets up the conditions necessary for the spine lock to be applied.
Spine Lock Mechanics
Once the opponent is displaced laterally, the practitioner controls the opponent's leg by securing the kneecap while maintaining upper body connection. The legs are driven inward to create the locking structure, with additional torque available through a figure-four leg configuration if needed.
Full Sequence and Variations
The complete technique combines entry, escape adaptation, arm control, and finalization in one flowing sequence. The instructor demonstrates how to respond to the opponent's directional changes and lock selections, showing multiple entry points from the shimmy lizard position into complementary submissions.
Sankaku Spine Lock by Neil Melanson
Key Takeaways
- •Setup and Pivot Defense
- •Transition to Reverse Triangle
- •Grip Conversion and Positioning
- •Spine Lock Mechanics
SANKAKU SPINE LOCK BY NEIL MELANSON // In this Jiu JItsu Moves video, Neil Melanson teaches the Sankaku Spine Lock technique. Neil Melanson is one of the most prolific figures in the grappling community. Neil was the head coach of the blackzillians MMA team. Known for his unique grappling style that utilizes a mix of Catch Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Freestyle Wrestling, and other arts, Neil has a unique style. This is a clip off of his new instructional series "Snap Guard." BJJ Fanatics was started by a pair of black belts (Bernardo Faria & Michael Zenga) who feel that nothing is more important than improving your BJJ skills as much as possible in the least amount of time. Their aim was to create a shop for BJJ Students who don’t look at BJJ as a sport – but as a lifestyle. 15% OFF On All Of Our BJJ Instructional Videos - Just Use The Coupon Code: FANATICSYOUTUBE Website: https://www.bjjfanatics.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAqme-CE-yLm01BV5nUjPPA Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/733553463659020/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjj.fanatics/?hl=en
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about spine lock?
This video covers setup and pivot defense, transition to reverse triangle, grip conversion and positioning. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Fanatics.
How long does it take to learn spine lock?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 5-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing spine lock?
Once the opponent is displaced laterally, the practitioner controls the opponent's leg by securing the kneecap while maintaining upper body connection. The legs are driven inward to create the locking structure, with additional torque available through a figure-four leg configuration if needed.
