Master the Hammer Lock: The Ultimate Guide for Martial Arts Dominance

The hammer lock is a powerful submission hold that can be applied in various grappling situations. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or a beginner looking to expand your grappling arsenal, understanding how to hammer lock is essential. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and strategies to master this submission technique.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Hammer Lock

1. Position Yourself:

• Get into a side control position, with your opponent’s back on the ground.
• Place your left arm (if you’re right-handed) across their body, trapping their right arm.
• Keep your right arm free to maneuver.

2. Cross Your Legs:

• Bring your right leg over their left leg and hook it around their waist.
• This will secure your position and prevent your opponent from escaping.

3. Grip Their Arm:

• Reach your right arm around your opponent’s right arm and grip it at the elbow.
• Bend their arm towards their head, creating a “hammer” shape.

4. Push and Pull:

• Use your left arm to push down on your opponent’s head while simultaneously pulling their right arm back towards their shoulder.
• This will put pressure on their elbow joint.

5. Lock the Hold:

• Once you feel resistance, use your right arm to lock the hold by bending your opponent’s arm further.
• Apply pressure until your opponent taps out.

Tips for Effective Hammer Locks

• Control the Head: Maintain pressure on your opponent’s head to prevent them from bridging or escaping.
• Keep Your Body Tight: Keep your body close to your opponent’s to prevent them from creating space.
• Use Your Legs: Your legs provide stability and help you apply pressure to the hold.
• Transition to Other Submissions: The hammer lock can be used as a transition to other submissions, such as the armbar or kimura.

Advanced Techniques

1. Reverse Hammer Lock:

• Apply the hammer lock on the opposite arm.
• This technique is especially effective against opponents who are defending the standard hammer lock.

2. Double Hammer Lock:

• Apply a hammer lock on both of your opponent’s arms simultaneously.
• This is a powerful submission that is difficult to escape.

3. Hammer Lock from Mount:

• Apply the hammer lock from the mount position.
• This variation provides additional control and pressure.

Strategies for Using the Hammer Lock

• Bait and Switch: Pretend to go for a different submission and then quickly transition to the hammer lock.
• Chain Submissions: Use the hammer lock to set up other submissions, such as the triangle choke or rear-naked choke.
• Counter Attacks: The hammer lock can be used to counter submission attempts, such as the armbar or kimura.

Finishing Thoughts: Unleashing the Power of the Hammer Lock

Mastering the hammer lock requires practice, patience, and understanding. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be well-equipped to apply this submission effectively in your grappling matches. Remember to practice with a willing partner and always prioritize safety. With consistent training, you will become proficient in the hammer lock and unlock a powerful tool for submission success.

What People Want to Know

Q: How do I escape a hammer lock?
A: To escape a hammer lock, push your head down and bridge your hips to create space. Then, use your legs to push off your opponent and roll out of the hold.

Q: Can the hammer lock damage my opponent’s elbow?
A: If applied correctly and with reasonable force, the hammer lock should not cause any significant damage. However, it’s important to release the hold immediately if your opponent taps out.

Q: What are the variations of the hammer lock?
A: There are several variations of the hammer lock, including the reverse hammer lock, double hammer lock, and hammer lock from mount. Each variation has its own unique advantages and applications.