Leg Locks, Cranks, and Chokes: The Techniques That Define Catch Wrestling and BJJ

Introduction: The Arsenal of Submission

Both Catch Wrestling and BJJ have developed sophisticated systems of submission techniques. However, their approaches to leg locks, cranks, and chokes can differ significantly, reflecting their unique histories and philosophies:

1. Catch Wrestling: Often emphasizes quick, aggressive submissions with a wider range of techniques.
2. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Typically focuses on controlled, systematic approaches to submissions with some restrictions in sport contexts.

Let’s examine each category of techniques in detail.

Leg Locks: The Lower Body Battlefield

Catch Wrestling Leg Locks

• Wide variety of leg lock techniques
• Emphasis on quick, forceful application
• Common techniques: Ankle locks, knee bars, heel hooks, calf slicers

BJJ Leg Locks

• Historically less emphasized, but growing in popularity
• More systematic approach, especially in modern competition scenes
• Common techniques: Straight ankle locks, kneebars, heel hooks (in some rulesets)

Key Differences:

1. Application Speed: Catch Wrestling often applies leg locks more explosively, while BJJ tends to set them up more methodically.
2. Positional Context: BJJ has developed specific positions for leg attacks (e.g., 50/50, single leg X), while Catch Wrestling may attack legs more opportunistically.
3. Rule Restrictions: Many BJJ competitions restrict certain leg locks, especially at lower levels, while Catch Wrestling traditionally has fewer restrictions.

Neck Cranks: The Controversial Techniques

Catch Wrestling Neck Cranks

• Widely accepted and frequently used
• Viewed as valid submissions and pain compliance techniques
• Common techniques: Can opener, twister, crucifix neck crank

BJJ Neck Cranks

• Less emphasized due to safety concerns and sport rules
• Some techniques like the twister have gained popularity through MMA influence
• Generally more restricted in sport BJJ competitions

Key Differences:

1. Acceptance: Catch Wrestling openly embraces neck cranks, while BJJ often views them with caution.
2. Application: Catch Wrestling may use cranks as primary attacks, while in BJJ, they’re often secondary techniques or used primarily in MMA-focused training.
3. Safety Considerations: BJJ’s sport focus has led to more restrictions on neck cranks, while Catch Wrestling’s combat roots encourage their use.

Chokes: The Art of Asphyxiation

Catch Wrestling Chokes

• Emphasis on quickly cutting off blood flow
• Often combined with cranking motions for added effect
• Common techniques: Rear naked choke, guillotine, arm triangle

BJJ Chokes

• Highly refined with numerous variations
• Focus on precise application and control
• Common techniques: Rear naked choke, triangle choke, cross collar choke (in gi)

Key Differences:

1. Gi vs. No-Gi: BJJ has developed many gi-specific chokes, while Catch Wrestling techniques are inherently no-gi.
2. Setup: BJJ often emphasizes positional control before the choke, while Catch Wrestling may attack the neck more directly.
3. Variations: BJJ has developed a wider array of choke variations, especially from guard positions.

The Interplay of Techniques

In both arts, these submission categories often interplay with each other:

Catch Wrestling Combinations

• Leg locks to set up cranks or chokes
• Using cranks to expose the neck for chokes
• Transitioning between different types of leg locks

BJJ Combinations

• Threat of chokes to set up arm locks or leg attacks
• Using the guard to create opportunities for various submissions
• Chaining submissions together in systematic sequences

Key Difference: Catch Wrestling often uses more abrupt transitions between techniques, while BJJ typically employs more methodical, position-based combinations.

Evolution and Cross-Pollination

As these arts have evolved, we’ve seen significant cross-pollination, especially in MMA and submission grappling contexts:

1. Leg Lock Renaissance: BJJ’s increased focus on leg locks shows clear influence from Catch Wrestling and Sambo.
2. Refinement of Cranks: Some BJJ practitioners have refined neck crank techniques for MMA application.
3. Choke Innovations: Both arts continue to innovate with new choke techniques and setups.

Tactical Applications: Different Philosophies

The way these techniques are applied tactically reveals core philosophical differences:

Catch Wrestling Approach

• Aggressive pursuit of submissions from any position
• Willingness to sacrifice position for submission attempts
• Use of pain compliance to force reactions

BJJ Approach

• Systematic progression through positions
• Emphasis on control before submission
• Use of threats and combinations to create openings

Training Methodologies

The way these techniques are trained also differs between the arts:

Catch Wrestling Training

• Emphasis on live drilling from early stages
• Focus on developing toughness and pain tolerance
• Often includes conditioning specific to maintaining pressure

BJJ Training

• Progressive approach, starting with technique drilling
• Focus on technical precision and timing
• Incorporation of situational sparring to develop skills

Safety Considerations

The approach to these high-impact techniques raises important safety considerations:

Catch Wrestling Perspective

• Embraces the inherent risks of grappling
• Emphasizes personal responsibility and tapping early
• Develops heightened awareness of dangerous positions

BJJ Perspective

• More regulated approach, especially in sport contexts
• Gradual introduction of higher-risk techniques
• Emphasis on controlled application in training

Conclusion: Respect for the Arsenal

Understanding the leg locks, cranks, and chokes that define Catch Wrestling and BJJ provides deep insights into the technical and philosophical foundations of these arts. While their approaches differ, both have developed highly effective systems of submission grappling.

For martial arts enthusiasts in Austin and beyond, exploring these techniques can greatly enhance your grappling skills. However, it’s crucial to train responsibly, respecting the power of these submissions and the safety of your training partners.

Whether you’re focused on self-defense, sport competition, or MMA, a well-rounded understanding of these submission techniques will make you a more knowledgeable and effective grappler. As always, ensure you’re learning from qualified instructors and adhering to safe training practices.

In our future posts, we’ll continue to explore specific techniques and training methods from various martial arts, helping you to expand your knowledge and skills in the fascinating world of combat sports and self-defense!