To many, the Lockdown system by 10th Planet founder, Master Eddie Bravo’s, is almost exclusively used in a NoGi environment. Being a part of the clinching category of guards, the advantage of this particular half guard is its superior ability to lock down the opponent with the two on one leg connection and firm upper body control. In NoGi, this is crucial when dealing with sweaty and resisting opponents. But, what are the benefits of using the Lockdown in a Gi?
GRIPS & FRICTION: When it comes to the Lockdown in a Gi, the friction of the Gi material significantly restrains freedom of movement and reinforces the grips. Using grips is a definite advantage for anyone using the Lockdown because when you can’t move, you can’t pass the guard either!
PACE CONTROL: This is great for the older grappler. When rolling with a younger, more technical opponent or higher belt, the Lockdown offers the ability to slow down the pace exponentially. Having the ability to dictate the pace in itself is also a form of dominance since the guard passer will not be able to use his superior physical abilities, technical skills, or implement his A-game until he manages to escape the Lockdown.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY: One of the essential aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the conservation of energy. Remember that it is the guy with the top position that needs to pass the guard. Having to place all your mental and physical efforts on dealing with the Lockdown is both frustrating and highly energy-consuming.
NO LEG-LOCKS: The Lockdown position with the leg connection and focused upper body control makes it next to impossible to be leg-locked. BE AWARE! Just having the leg connection is not a Lockdown, so maintaining the upper body control is crucial.
SELF CONFIDENCE: Get ready for a confidence boost. Since most Gi practitioners remain unfamiliar with the position, the element of surprise is on your side. Knowing what others don’t know and don’t expect provides a massive advantage for anyone with a good knowledge of the Lockdown system. By perfecting your Lockdown techniques and gaining more experience, your overall sense of control and rate of submissions and sweeps will go through the roof!
In the video below, head coach Magnus Hansson at 10th Planet gives his opinion on some of the advantages of using the Lockdown in a Gi.
Still in doubt? Check out www.grapplinginstructionals.com for further information on the Lotus Lockdown, the world’s most complete Lockdown instructional in a Gi.
Magnus Hansson, 3rd-degree blackbelt under Duda Suares (Gi) and Eddie Bravo’s 1st European blackbelt shows everything there is to know about the Lockdown in a Gi with new revolutionary details. Modified from its original, the Lotus Lockdown will change the way you approach this powerful half-guard. Let the Lotus Lockdown be your solution!
