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Compression lock
Compression lock
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A compression lock, muscle lock, muscle slicer or muscle crusher, is a grappling hold that causes severe pain by pressing a muscle into a bone. A compression lock can cause a joint lock in a nearby joint when it is applied by squeezing a limb over a fulcrum. A forceful compression lock may damage muscles and tendons, and if accompanied by a joint lock, may also result in torn ligaments, dislocation or bone fractures. Compression locks can be used as pain compliance holds, and are sometimes featured in combat sports as submission holds.

Key Information

Achilles lock

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An Achilles lock (also called an Achilles hold or Achilles squeeze or Ashi-Hishigi in judo) is a compression lock that involves pressing the Achilles tendon into the back of the ankle or lower leg. It is typically performed by wedging a forearm, especially a bony part of it, into the Achilles tendon, while leveraging the foot and the leg over the forearm serving as a fulcrum. This causes severe pressure on the Achilles tendon, and often also results in an ankle lock, since the ankle is being used as a point of leverage. Similarly, some ankle locks also cause a compression lock on the Achilles tendon, and hence the term "Achilles lock" is often also used to describe such ankle locks.

Biceps slicer

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A biceps slicer (also called a biceps lock or biceps crusher) is a compression lock that involves pushing the biceps into the humerus. An effective biceps slicer can be applied by putting an arm or leg as a fulcrum on the opponent's arm at the inside of the arm by the elbow, and flexing the opponent's arm over the fulcrum. This will result in the biceps and forearm being pressed into the fulcrum. The biceps slicer becomes most effective as a compression lock when the bony parts of the limb such as the shin or any of the bones in the forearm are forced into the biceps of the opponent. The biceps slicer can also become a potent armlock when it is applied in this manner, because the leverage causes an elongating and separating tension in the elbow joint, making this a legal technique in judo competition.[1] In Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitions however, the biceps slicer is an illegal technique in lower level divisions of some major tournaments.[2] In catch wrestling biceps slicer variation is called short-arm scissors.

Leg slicer

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A leg slicer (depending on the affected muscle also called for instance calf slicer or thigh crusher) is a compression lock that involves pressing the calf and/or thigh muscle into one of the bones in the leg. Similarly to the biceps slicer, a leg slicer can be applied by inserting an arm or leg in the backside of the knee, and flexing the opponent's leg to apply pressure to the muscles surrounding the fulcrum. Generally, the direction of the shin in the leg acting as a fulcrum will determine where the larger part of the pressure will go. Such leg slicers can be used as effective leglocks to the knee through a separating and elongating motion.[3] Similarly to the biceps slicer, the calf slicer is listed as a banned technique in the lower levels of some major Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitions.[2]

In professional wrestling, wrestlers AJ Styles uses this as a submission finisher move, calling it the Calf Killer in NJPW and TNA and the Calf Crusher in WWE while Zack Sabre Jr. mostly uses it as a move to transition into a Banana split.

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
A compression lock is a submission technique in grappling , such as (BJJ) and , that applies targeted pressure to compress an opponent's muscle or tendon against an underlying bone, thereby generating severe pain and risking damage without necessarily hyperextending the . Unlike joint locks, which manipulate through extension or to target ligaments and , or chokes that impede flow or breathing, compression locks focus on crushing soft tissues to submission, making them particularly effective in close-range, no-gi scenarios where friction from clothing is absent. Common examples include the bicep slicer, which squeezes the against the ; the calf slicer, targeting the gastrocnemius against the or ; and the Achilles lock, compressing the against the ankle bone. These holds are staples in no-gi competitions and training but face restrictions in gi-based rulesets; for instance, under International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) guidelines, bicep and calf slicers are illegal for white, blue, and purple belts in both gi and no-gi divisions, though higher belts may employ them in no-gi with fewer limitations. Compression locks trace their origins to traditional grappling systems like , sambo, and , where similar muscle-crushing techniques were used for control and submission before being integrated into modern BJJ during the 20th century. Their resurgence in contemporary stems from evolving competition rules that favor versatile, high-percentage attacks, emphasizing the need for practitioners to train them cautiously to avoid injury while enhancing overall defensive awareness.

Definition and Characteristics

Definition

A compression lock, also known as a muscle lock, muscle slicer, or muscle crusher, is a that causes severe pain by pressing a muscle or against a . This technique induces submission primarily through intense localized pain from the compression, without necessarily hyperextending or manipulating joints. When applied with full force, it can damage muscles and tendons, potentially leading to tears, and in severe cases, may cause fractures or dislocations. Compression locks are categorized as a type of submission hold in arts such as , distinct from chokes, which restrict blood flow or airflow, and manipulations, which target hyperextension or rotation.

Distinction from Other Submission Holds

Compression locks differ from locks primarily in their , as they apply pressure to compress muscles or against underlying bones, generating through soft tissue deformation rather than hyperextending or hyperflexing a beyond its natural . locks, by contrast, isolate and manipulate specific —such as the in an armbar or the in a kneebar—to exploit skeletal vulnerabilities and force structural compromise, often leading to or tears if resisted. This distinction positions compression locks as a -compliance technique focused on muscular distress, while locks emphasize mechanical failure, making the former quicker to apply in dynamic scenarios but potentially less debilitating long-term. Unlike chokes, which restrict blood flow to the brain via compression or impede through tracheal , compression locks induce submission exclusively through localized muscular agony without affecting vascular or respiratory systems. For instance, a bicep slicer compresses the muscle against the bone, creating intense pressure that prompts due to pain thresholds, whereas a rear-naked choke targets the neck's major arteries to cause rapid in 3-5 seconds. This separation highlights compression locks' reliance on somatic nerve stimulation rather than systemic physiological disruption, allowing them to function effectively on limbs distant from vital areas. Compression locks also avoid the spinal column manipulation characteristic of spinal locks, instead concentrating force on peripheral limbs to prevent risks associated with vertebral misalignment or impingement in the or . Spinal locks, such as the twister, torque the spine to exceed its rotational limits, potentially causing severe, irreversible damage to intervertebral discs or the , which is why they are often prohibited in competitions. In , compression locks fall under a distinct category of submission holds centered on muscle compression, separate from manipulations, positional controls like pins, or striking integrations, emphasizing their role in limb-specific pain induction within broader frameworks.

Mechanics and Application

Biomechanical Principles

Compression locks function through the biomechanical principle of leverage, utilizing an opponent's body part—such as a or shin—as a rigid applicator to create compressive force on a targeted muscle against an underlying , effectively trapping the in a vice-like mechanism. This setup relies on the physics of levers, where the serves as a fixed fulcrum, allowing the practitioner to amplify force through body positioning and extension without relying on hyperextension or typical of other submissions. Anatomically, the pressure exerted on the muscle fibers disrupts local blood flow, inducing ischemia that leads to the accumulation of metabolic byproducts such as and the release of (ATP), which sensitize and activate nociceptors to produce acute . This compressive action can also mechanically stimulate nearby , further contributing to the response by directly impinging on neural structures within or adjacent to the compressed tissue. In terms of force dynamics, the hold generates targeted and at precise points along the muscle, focusing the load perpendicular to the tissue without rotational , which maximizes the compressive effect on the muscle belly. Resistance to the hold intensifies this , potentially causing micro-tears in muscle fibers due to the sustained mechanical stress. Conceptually, the mechanism can be visualized as a sandwich configuration: the pliable muscle layer is squeezed between the unyielding base and the applicator surface, deforming the tissue and eliciting rapid submission through overwhelming discomfort.

Execution and Targeting

Applying a compression lock begins with establishing dominant control over the opponent to prevent escapes or counters. This typically requires securing a stable position, such as a guard, mount, or pin, which isolates the targeted limb and limits the opponent's mobility. For instance, from bottom or a failed armbar attempt, the practitioner can transition into the lock by trapping the opponent's arm or leg against their own body. Once control is achieved, the execution involves several sequential steps: first, position the opponent to expose the target area, such as by pinning a limb with the body or limbs; second, isolate the limb by wrapping or encircling it with an or to restrict movement; third, introduce a fulcrum—often the , , or shin—placed against the muscle or to create leverage; and finally, gradually increase by arching the back, stacking the body, or squeezing to compress the tissue against the underlying . This methodical application allows for progressive pain induction, giving the opponent an opportunity to submit before injury occurs. Common targeting areas for compression locks include the muscles and tendons of the limbs, particularly the calves, , thighs (such as hamstrings), and the region, where the compression exploits vulnerability against bony structures. These sites are chosen for their susceptibility to from neural or muscular compression without necessarily hyperextending joints. Grip variations enhance leverage and control during application; a straight grip, such as wrapping the arm directly around the limb, provides simplicity and direct , while a figure-four configuration—where the limb forms a locked triangle for added stability—offers greater , especially in leg-based locks from positions like or X-guard. The choice depends on the setup and the practitioner's positional dominance.

History and Development

Origins in Traditional Grappling

Compression locks trace their roots to traditional Japanese grappling arts, particularly jujutsu, where techniques like ashi-hishigi—known as the Achilles press—targeted the ankle and lower leg for compression and control. This hold was incorporated into the early Kodokan judo curriculum established by Jigoro Kano in the late 19th century, reflecting jujutsu's influence on judo's foundational submission techniques. In the and , catch wrestling traditions during the early 1900s developed a range of submission holds, including limb-control techniques, as part of carnival athletic shows where wrestlers challenged locals with brutal holds. These evolved from Lancashire catch-as-catch-can styles that prioritized ground-based submissions over pins. Similar limb control methods appear in other historical grappling systems. Soviet sambo, developed in the 1920s and 1930s, incorporated leg locks including Achilles locks for submission, blending elements from and . Indian () and Chinese employed pressure and joint techniques to immobilize opponents' extremities, focusing on throws and control in bouts and military training. Key documentation of these elements came from judo master in his 1956 publication The Canon of Judo, which formalized ashi-hishigi and related compression techniques within Kodokan's ne-waza (ground techniques), preserving their traditional applications for educational purposes.

Modern Adoption in Combat Sports

In the 1990s, compression locks gained traction within (BJJ) as the adapted and expanded techniques from , incorporating leg-based submissions to complement their ground-fighting emphasis. Early BJJ, shaped by Hélio Gracie's modifications for leverage over strength, initially de-emphasized leg locks due to perceived risks and a focus on upper-body control, but practitioners like Renzo and integrated compression holds such as Achilles locks and calf slicers during this period to address gaps in no-gi scenarios. This evolution was influenced by cross-training with judo's ashi-waza and exposure to challenges, allowing compression locks to transition from niche tools to viable options in Gracie academies by the late 1990s. The adoption of compression locks extended into mixed martial arts (MMA) following the inaugural UFC event in 1993, where no-holds-barred rules initially permitted a wide array of submissions, including leg slicers and Achilles locks. Fighters like exemplified their effectiveness in high-profile bouts, notably submitting via Achilles lock at 11 in 2000, showcasing how compression techniques could neutralize larger opponents in open-weight formats. These applications in promotions like UFC and highlighted compression locks' speed and , influencing MMA grapplers to incorporate them as counters to defenses post-1993. Submission grappling tournaments, particularly the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) starting in 1998, accelerated the strategic development of compression locks, with leg slicers emerging as key weapons in no-gi divisions. Competitors like Royler Gracie employed calf and Achilles variations during his three consecutive ADCC titles from 1999 to 2001, demonstrating their utility in prolonged scrambles and turtle positions. By the mid-2000s, ADCC matches routinely featured compression finishes, establishing them as essential for elite grapplers seeking rapid submissions without gi grips. Cultural perceptions of compression locks shifted dramatically by the , evolving from historically restricted techniques in gi-based BJJ to widely accepted staples in no-gi competitions and training. The "leg lock revolution," driven by innovators like John Danaher and the Danaher Death Squad around 2013–2015, normalized compression holds through systematic instruction, making them integral to modern no-gi curricula amid relaxed rules in events like ADCC and IBJJF no-gi divisions for advanced belts. This acceptance reflected broader trends toward comprehensive limb attacks, reducing earlier stigmas tied to injury potential in traditional Gracie methodologies.

Specific Techniques

Achilles Lock

The Achilles lock, also known as the straight ankle lock, is a compression submission technique that targets the by pressing it against the ankle bone, utilizing the attacker's or shin as a fulcrum to create intense pressure. This foundational lower-body hold combines elements of tendon compression with potential hyperextension of the foot, distinguishing it as a versatile option in grappling arts. In traditional , it is recognized as ashi-hishigi, a kansetsu-waza ( technique) that has been part of the codified repertoire since the early 20th century. Setup typically begins from dominant positions such as closed guard or single-leg X control, where the attacker isolates the opponent's leg by wrapping their arm around the ankle and pulling the foot toward the body while securing the opponent's or for leverage. From closed guard, the bottom player can off-balance the top opponent during a pass attempt, transition to encircle the leg, and apply the hold by tucking the opponent's foot into the armpit for control. In single-leg scenarios, the attacker elevates and rotates the leg to expose the Achilles, using body weight to drive the compression. The primary effects include sharp pain in the and surrounding calf muscles due to the compressive force, which can lead to rapid submission through discomfort alone; however, excessive application risks ankle strain, damage, or even partial tears if significant is added. This technique often integrates with broader ankle lock mechanics, enhancing its efficacy by combining compression with foot flexion to amplify pressure on the . In practice, it serves as a pain-compliance tool rather than a guaranteed unless applied with uncontrolled force.

Biceps Slicer

The biceps slicer is a compression lock that specifically targets the muscle by pressing it against the bone, employing the opponent's or the attacker's shin, knee, or as a fulcrum to isolate and compress the upper arm. This mechanism leverages the of the against the rigid of the , creating localized pressure that exploits the muscle's vulnerability in a flexed position, akin to the fulcrum-based principles in broader compression hold . Common setups for the slicer originate from an armbar attempt, where the opponent defends by interlocking their hands to prevent extension, allowing the attacker to transition by trapping the and inserting the shin or into the biceps crook while bridging to increase compression. Alternatively, it can be applied from north-south position control, where the attacker pins the opponent's , secures the with one hand, and drives the knee or directly into the biceps to fold the and apply the hold. In both cases, the technique emphasizes arm isolation to prevent escapes, often using the legs to form a figure-four or configuration around the trapped limb for added leverage. The primary effects of the biceps slicer include intense, sharp pain in the compressed biceps due to the crushing force on the muscle fibers, potentially leading to bruising or temporary impairment if the hold is sustained briefly. It is particularly valuable as a seamless transition from a defended armbar, capitalizing on the opponent's defensive posture to shift from joint manipulation to muscular compression without releasing control. Regarding usage, the biceps slicer is legal in advanced competitions, where it aligns with permitted elbow-targeted techniques, but it remains restricted in amateur , prohibited for white, blue, and purple belts under IBJJF regulations to mitigate risks for less experienced practitioners.

Calf Slicer

The calf slicer is a leg compression lock in that targets the bulk of the calf muscle, compressing it against the or bone using the attacker's shin or as the primary fulcrum to generate intense pressure. This technique leverages biomechanical principles of leverage and isolation, similar to broader execution methods in compression holds, by isolating the lower and forcing the toward the glutes to wedge the shin into the calf. Common setups originate from leg entanglements, particularly the 50/50 guard, where the attacker secures the opponent's far leg by threading their own leg through for control, then wraps around the targeted leg and squeezes with the attacking leg to compress the calf while pulling the foot downward. Other positional entries include or , where the attacker rolls into a position, grabs the ankle, and drives the shin into the calf for the crush. The mechanics emphasize precise shin placement behind the to maximize compression without excessive on the , allowing for quick application in dynamic scrambles. The effects manifest as immediate, sharp pain in the lower from the direct compression of muscle tissue against , often prompting a rapid tap-out; prolonged application risks calf muscle tears or collateral damage to ligaments and tendons. In wrestling contexts, it is sometimes referred to as a "leg slicer" due to its broad compressive impact on the lower extremity. Key variations distinguish the straight calf slicer, which relies on linear shin pressure for straightforward compression, from the figure-four variation, where the attacker locks their legs in a figure-four configuration around the opponent's ankle to introduce rotational and enhance control. The figure-four setup, often applied from guards like reverse De La Riva, increases leverage by distributing force across the leg wrap, making it suitable for transitions into other leg attacks.

Other Examples

Beyond the primary compression locks, several variations target different muscle groups and are employed in specific contexts. The thigh slicer, also known as a compression lock, applies pressure to the opponent's muscle against the , typically using the attacker's shin or as a fulcrum while controlling the and for leverage. This technique often transitions from kneebar positions, where the defender's recovery movements allow isolation of the leg for the compression. Another rare example is the shoulder crusher, which applies compression to the and upper arm muscles by creating a fulcrum with the legs, s, or torso to isolate and drive pressure onto the extended or bent . It is particularly associated with , where it emerges during armbar transitions, omoplata defenses, or scrambles to trap and submit the opponent. Modern no-gi adaptations in have popularized emerging variants like the knee slicer, a compression lock that threatens damage to the knee's ligaments and meniscus by pulling the leg across the shin to crush the calf or muscles. This technique is frequently used in submission grappling to set up further attacks or secure quick taps, reflecting its effectiveness in contemporary rulesets.

Usage in Martial Arts

In Judo and Wrestling

In judo, compression locks form part of the traditional katame-waza (holding and submission techniques), with ashi-hishigi representing a key example of leg-targeted manipulation aimed at compressing the or to induce pain and force compliance. These techniques emphasize control and precision in ne-waza (groundwork), aligning with 's broader philosophy of efficient immobilization and submission without unnecessary force. However, ashi-hishigi and similar leg compression locks have been prohibited in (IJF) competitions since the sport's early codification, with rules explicitly limiting kansetsu-waza ( locks) to the only to reduce risks. The 2010 IJF rule revisions reinforced this by banning leg grabs from tachi-waza (standing techniques) while maintaining the ne-waza restrictions on leg locks, prioritizing safety in high-level contests. Despite their exclusion from shiai (competition), compression locks like ashi-hishigi hold cultural significance in through their preservation in the Kodokan curriculum, where they are studied as historical waza to deepen practitioners' understanding of grappling mechanics and traditional roots. This educational role underscores 's commitment to comprehensive technique development, often explored in (forms) or specialized training sessions focused on katame-waza variations. In wrestling, compression locks are integral to catch-as-catch-can styles, where they facilitate pins and submissions by applying targeted pressure to muscles against bones, often transitioning from riding positions to secure victory. For instance, the calf slicer—exemplified by professional wrestler ' "Calf Killer" finisher—compresses the calf muscle to immobilize the opponent, drawing from catch wrestling's emphasis on versatile, pain-inducing holds in both amateur and entertainment contexts. In , while outright submissions are restricted in ruleset, compression elements appear in advanced leg control for maintaining dominance, such as in the leg ride where the top wrestler hooks and squeezes the bottom wrestler's thigh or calf to prevent escapes and set up turns. Training for these applications in incorporates drills centered on leg control, including repetitive riding sequences where practitioners practice hooking the near leg, driving hips forward, and applying pressure to simulate compression without full locks, building and positional awareness essential for competitive pinning. These methods, often starting from neutral positions and progressing to defensive counters, highlight wrestling's focus on dynamic control rather than static submissions.

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA

In (BJJ), compression locks like calf slicers and bicep slicers are subject to strict restrictions at beginner and intermediate levels under (IBJJF) rules to prioritize safety for less experienced practitioners. For white, blue, and purple belt competitors, these techniques are prohibited in both gi and no-gi divisions, limiting leg submissions to straight ankle locks only. At brown and black belt levels, calf slicers and bicep slicers become legal in both gi and no-gi competitions, reflecting the emphasis on advanced technical proficiency. This progression encourages practitioners to master foundational before incorporating high-risk compression techniques, which are often trained extensively in no-gi environments to enhance versatility. In (MMA), compression locks serve as tactical tools for ground control and finishing opportunities, particularly in promotions like UFC and where striking integrates with grappling. famously employed leg slicers, including an Achilles lock—a compression submission targeting the calf and —to secure a quick victory over at 11 in 2000, showcasing their effectiveness as counters to sprawls during takedown defenses. These locks provide strategic value as secondary submissions during guard passes, allowing fighters to transition from dominant positions like mount or to isolate limbs for compression without exposing themselves to strikes. Notable practitioners have elevated compression locks' profile in MMA, often amid controversy. Rousimar Palhares, a BJJ black belt, integrated aggressive leg attacks including compression variants into his UFC bouts, but faced bans and releases due to repeated instances of holding submissions post-tap, such as in his 2013 heel hook win over —highlighting the fine line between dominance and sportsmanship in hybrid combat. These examples underscore compression locks' role in BJJ-influenced MMA strategies, where they complement chokes and joint locks for comprehensive submission arsenals.

Risks and Regulations

Potential Injuries

Compression locks apply intense pressure to muscles against underlying bones or structures, potentially leading to short-term soft tissue damage and severe pain. These effects typically resolve with rest and conservative management, but failure to release the hold promptly can exacerbate tissue damage. Long-term consequences may arise from repeated exposure to compression, potentially causing chronic pain and reduced mobility. Such outcomes underscore the importance of monitoring for persistent symptoms post-training. The severity of these injuries is influenced by several factors, including higher volumes and levels, which correlate with increased due to more frequent exposure. Prevention strategies emphasize prompt recognition of discomfort through established tap-out signals, allowing immediate release to minimize damage, and adhering to controlled intensity that avoids maximal force during drills. Incorporating protective equipment, such as rash guards or joint supports, and gradual progression in technique practice further reduce incidence rates.

Legality in Competitions

In the (IBJJF), compression locks such as bicep slicers and calf slicers are prohibited for , , and belt competitors in gi competitions due to their potential for injury, but they are permitted for brown and black belt levels where advanced technique is expected. Leg compression locks, including calf slicers, are completely banned for athletes under 18 years old across all belt levels to protect developing bodies. In (IJF) competitions, arm-based compression locks like the bicep slicer are legal when applied as a controlled during ne-waza (), aligning with permitted kansetsu-waza (joint locks). Leg compression locks, such as calf slicers, remain restricted under broader prohibitions on leg entanglements and non-Kodokan techniques to prevent excessive risk. The Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) and similar no-gi events like those under the United World (UAW) framework allow all compression locks without restriction, classifying them under legal leg locks and arm submissions to reward sophisticated grappling skills in professional settings. Variations exist across events: Olympic freestyle wrestling bans compression locks entirely as part of its prohibition on dangerous holds targeting joints or muscles, focusing instead on pins and takedowns. In contrast, professional (MMA) organizations like the UFC permit compression locks under unified rules, provided they avoid small joint manipulation, enabling their use in ground exchanges.

References

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