Heel Hook / Inside Heel Hook

The heel hook is one of the most dangerous and effective leg locks in modern grappling, targeting the ligaments of the knee and twisting the foot. By controlling the opponent’s heel and applying rotational force, the attacker forces a tap while threatening severe joint damage. The inside heel hook specifically applies torque through internal rotation, making the knee extremely vulnerable.

Execution requires precise control of both the opponent’s leg and hips to prevent escape and maximize leverage. Because of the high risk of injury, heel hooks are often restricted to advanced competitors and no-gi divisions. Despite this, they are central to leg-lock systems in organizations like ADCC and EBI, where aggressive leg entanglements are a key strategic element.

Strategically, heel hooks are often used in combination with other leg locks, such as knee bars or toe holds, to create chains of attacks. Advanced grapplers study positioning, angles, and timing to ensure a safe yet effective application, reflecting the evolution of lower-body submissions in modern competitive BJJ.