The Leg Lace Position
The leg lace, also called a cloverleaf submission, is a leg lock that begins when the attacker transitions from a saddle position or failed knee bar attempt. The attacker gathers both of the opponent's legs while maintaining a locked leg position to prevent escape. A key detail involves hooking behind the opponent's knee to ensure the trapped leg cannot slip free.
Transitioning from Failed Heel Hook Defense
When an opponent successfully defends a heel hook attempt by freeing their leg, the attacker responds by pursuing the opponent's other leg using the same entry mechanics. The attacker uses positional control to prevent the opponent from hiding their heel while preparing follow-up submission threats.
Addressing the Bootleg Defense
As the attacker threatens a straight footlock by pressing against the opponent's shin, the opponent may defend by plantar-flexing their foot into a 'boot' position. The attacker counters by using their elbow to break down the opponent's toes, which transitions into either a heel hook or straight footlock depending on the opponent's response.
The Hip Roll Escape and Positional Adjustment
The primary weakness of the leg lace submission is that a skilled opponent can roll their hip away from the attacker's pulling direction, significantly reducing pressure and making a tap unlikely at high competition levels. To counter this escape, the attacker uses their ribcage and legs to forcibly rotate the opponent onto their opposite side, changing the angle of pressure distribution.
Finishing with Rear Naked Choke Grip and Arch
Once the opponent is rotated to the correct angle, the attacker secures a rear naked choke grip on the leg lace and drives their weight downward while back-arching and pulling simultaneously. This creates intense pressure on the Achilles tendon as the opponent's shin bone drives into it, forcing the submission.
Toe Hold Setup for Hip Roll Defense
If the opponent continues rolling their hip to defend, the attacker's hand can transition into a toe hold position, which actually increases pressure as the opponent turns. Once the opponent is finally rotated to the proper side angle, the toe hold serves only as a setup, and the attacker immediately transitions to the rear naked choke grip finish.
Common Position Errors
The leg lace submission should not be confused with similar-looking positions such as transitions from 50/50 guard, full triangle, or crossover defenses. These alternative positions fail to provide sufficient leverage over both of the opponent's legs and will not produce the same submission mechanics or results.
How to FINISH this Leg Lock EFFECTIVELY!!??
Key Takeaways
- •The Leg Lace Position
- •Transitioning from Failed Heel Hook Defense
- •Addressing the Bootleg Defense
- •The Hip Roll Escape and Positional Adjustment
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about leg lock?
This video covers the leg lace position, transitioning from failed heel hook defense, addressing the bootleg defense. It provides detailed instruction from TeachMeGrappling Coach Brian.
How long does it take to learn leg lock?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing leg lock?
If the opponent continues rolling their hip to defend, the attacker's hand can transition into a toe hold position, which actually increases pressure as the opponent turns. Once the opponent is finally rotated to the proper side angle, the toe hold serves only as a setup, and the attacker immediately transitions to the rear naked choke grip finish.
