Beinschluss

Beinschluss, literally leg lock or leg bind, is a grappling technique in which an opponent’s leg is controlled or immobilized by wrapping or trapping it with holds around the thigh or ankle. The aim is to restrict the opponent’s mobility, disrupt balance, and create opportunities for a takedown, sweep, or submission. The principle centers on controlling the leg while maintaining advantageous body position.

The term is used across several grappling disciplines, including wrestling, judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and sambo, as well as in historical German wrestling terminology. Variants of a Beinschluss differ in grip, leg position, and the side from which the leg is controlled, yielding different control dynamics and follow-up options depending on the practitioner’s training and the competition rules.

In practice, a Beinschluss can set up a variety of techniques, such as a leg sweep, a transition to top control, or a submission attempt that attacks the knee or ankle. The exact options depend on the surrounding positions (for example, from guard or top control) and the rules of the sport being practiced.

Safety and instruction are important considerations. Beinschluss techniques place stress on the knees and ankles, so proper technique, progressive training, and supervision by qualified instructors are essential. Practitioners should recognize signals to tap and prioritize control and safety to reduce injury risk.

Related concepts include the leg lock, ankle lock, and leg sweep.