Created by prominent flat-earth proponent Mr. Eddie Bravo, the Lockdown system is an IBJJF legal half-guard series of techniques that offers multiple defensive and offensive options from the guard. With the help of double underhooks, using two legs to trap one of the opponents legs, the mission of the Lockdown user is to establish a firm clinch and to prevent the opponent from shifting his hips.

For most BJJ practitioners, the first aim of the battle is to pass the guard, establish a more dominant position and then go for the submission. However, in order to do so, the guard passer must first get rid of the Lockdown, which (depending of the skill of the Lockdown user) can be a major challenge. Any attempt to move forward without first removing the trapped leg from the Lockdown is almost non existent and will result in the opponent being elevated, his base and posture ruptured followed by a chain of attacks, sweep attempts – or both. On the other hand, if the opponent keeps a low base and does nothing, then the result will match exactly that – no guard pass, no points, no harm. This might not qualify as quality entertainment, however, in reality one of the most important aspects of a physical altercation is to be safe, something that a smooth Lockdown can facilitate, and much more with the knowledge on how to use all of its advantages.

It is important to recognize that the Lockdown is not about locking the opponents leg and just squeeze the hell out of it. (Unless it’s a life or death situation) When the Lockdown is properly used, it is a can be a very smooth experience even for the opponent.

TOM DEBLASS SHOWS A SNEAKY CALF SLICER FROM LOCKDOWN

Triangle your opponent’s leg to obtain a lockdown from half guard by putting your outside leg over the top of theirs and forming a figure-four with your legs. Finally, with your inside foot, scoop up the opponent’s leg and stretch out to put pressure. At 50 seconds into the video below, Tom DeBlass demonstrates an excellent illustration of this lockdown position ending with a nasty calf slicer.

Grappling guru Tom DeBlass shows his entire arsenal from the lockdown half guard position on this 4-volume series.

• Control and slow down bigger, stronger, athletic opponents (even in no-gi) with these tips for creating the tightest entanglements – use the lockdown to create powerful attacks like the electric chair, waiter sweep, heel hook entries, back takes, and more.