Knee bar submission is a highly effective technique used in mixed martial arts (MMA) and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It involves applying pressure on the knee joint of the opponent, causing discomfort and potentially significant harm. This submission is considered as one of the most dangerous attacks for any BJJ or MMA practitioner.
The knee bar submission has been around since the beginnings of BJJ and has featured heavily throughout MMA history and grappling in general. Being one of the main leg lock attacks, it can end a fight quickly and break the knee instantly. However, due to the potential for injury, the use of knee bars in MMA is heavily regulated, and certain variations are banned in competition.
In this article, we will explore the knee bar submission in detail, including its history, technique, and application in MMA and BJJ. We will also discuss the risks and safety concerns associated with this technique and the rules and regulations surrounding its use in competition. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this article will provide you with valuable insights into one of the most devastating submissions in combat sports.
What is a Knee Bar Submission?
A knee bar submission is a grappling technique used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) to force an opponent to submit by applying pressure to their knee joint. This submission hold is considered one of the most dangerous leg locks, as it can cause significant harm to the opponent’s knee if not released in time.
Definition
A knee bar submission involves wrapping one’s legs around the opponent’s leg and applying pressure to the knee joint by extending the leg while controlling the opponent’s foot or ankle. This technique is typically used when the opponent is in a seated or kneeling position, with their knee exposed and vulnerable.
History
The knee bar submission has been around since the early days of BJJ and has been used extensively in MMA competitions. The technique was originally adopted from Judo, where it is known as hiza-juji gatame. Over time, BJJ practitioners have refined the technique and developed variations that make it even more effective.
One of the reasons why knee bars are so effective is that they can be applied quickly and with little warning, catching opponents off guard. However, they are also considered high-risk submissions, as they can cause serious injury if not executed properly. As a result, many MMA fighters and BJJ practitioners choose to avoid using knee bars altogether or only use them in controlled training environments.
In summary, the knee bar submission is a powerful grappling technique used in BJJ and MMA to force an opponent to submit by applying pressure to their knee joint. While it can be highly effective, it is also considered a high-risk submission and should only be attempted by experienced practitioners who have been trained in its proper execution.
How to Perform a Knee Bar Submission
A knee bar submission is a powerful technique that can be used to submit an opponent in MMA. It is a type of leg lock that puts pressure on the knee joint, causing discomfort and potentially significant harm. In this section, we will discuss how to perform a knee bar submission in MMA.
Setting Up the Submission
To set up a knee bar submission, you need to first get into a position where you can attack your opponent’s legs. This can be done from the top or bottom position, depending on the situation. Here are some tips for setting up the submission:
- Get into position: To set up a knee bar submission, you need to be in a position where you can control your opponent’s leg. This can be done from a variety of positions, including the guard, half guard, or side control.
- Control your opponent’s leg: Once you are in position, you need to control your opponent’s leg. This can be done by wrapping your legs around their leg or by using your arms to control their leg.
- Create leverage: To apply the submission, you need to create leverage by pulling on your opponent’s leg while pushing with your hips. This will put pressure on their knee joint, causing discomfort and potentially causing them to submit.
Executing the Submission
Once you have set up the knee bar submission, you need to execute it properly to finish the fight. Here are some tips for executing the submission:
- Apply pressure gradually: When applying the submission, it is important to apply pressure gradually. This will give your opponent a chance to tap out before any serious damage is done.
- Communicate with your opponent: It is important to communicate with your opponent while applying the submission. This will give them a chance to tap out if they are in too much pain.
- Finish the submission: If your opponent does not tap out, you need to finish the submission by applying more pressure. This can be done by pulling on their leg while pushing with your hips.
In conclusion, the knee bar submission is a powerful technique that can be used to submit an opponent in MMA. By following the tips outlined in this section, you can learn how to set up and execute the submission properly. Remember to apply pressure gradually and communicate with your opponent to avoid causing serious harm.
Variations of the Knee Bar Submission
The knee bar submission is a highly effective technique in MMA that can be executed from various positions. Here are three variations of the knee bar submission that fighters can use to gain an advantage over their opponents.
Straight Knee Bar
The straight knee bar is one of the most common variations of the knee bar submission. It is executed by attacking the opponent’s leg when they are in a seated position. The fighter locks their legs around the opponent’s leg and applies pressure to the knee joint to force a submission. It is important to note that this technique can cause significant harm if not executed properly.
Reverse Knee Bar
The reverse knee bar is a variation of the knee bar submission that is executed from a standing position. The fighter traps the opponent’s leg between their legs and twists their body to apply pressure to the knee joint. This technique is highly effective for taking down opponents who are standing, but it requires a great deal of strength and flexibility to execute properly.
Jumping Knee Bar
The jumping knee bar is a variation of the knee bar submission that is executed when both fighters are standing. The fighter jumps and wraps their legs around the opponent’s leg, applying pressure to the knee joint to force a submission. This technique requires a great deal of athleticism and timing, but it can be highly effective when executed properly.
In conclusion, the knee bar submission is a highly effective technique in MMA that can be executed from various positions. Fighters who master the straight knee bar, reverse knee bar, and jumping knee bar will have a significant advantage over their opponents. However, it is important to execute these techniques properly to avoid causing significant harm to the opponent.
When to Use a Knee Bar Submission
The knee bar submission is a popular grappling technique used in MMA to force an opponent to submit. It is a leg lock variation that puts pressure on the knee joint, causing discomfort and potential harm. Here are some situations where you may consider using the knee bar submission:
Advantages of the Knee Bar Submission
- Surprise factor: The knee bar submission can catch your opponent off guard, especially if they are not familiar with the technique. This can give you an advantage and increase your chances of securing the submission.
- Versatility: The knee bar submission can be executed from various positions, such as the guard or the mount. This makes it a versatile technique that can be used in various situations.
- Quick finish: If executed correctly, the knee bar submission can lead to a quick finish, ending the fight in your favor.
Disadvantages of the Knee Bar Submission
- Risk of injury: The knee bar submission can cause significant harm if not executed correctly. It is important to be cautious and avoid applying the technique with excessive force.
- Counterattacks: If your opponent is familiar with the knee bar submission, they may be able to counterattack and escape the hold. This can leave you vulnerable to their attacks and put you in a disadvantageous position.
- Legal restrictions: In some grappling competitions, the knee bar submission may be prohibited or restricted. It is important to be aware of the rules and regulations of the competition before attempting the technique.
In conclusion, the knee bar submission can be a useful technique in MMA, but it is important to use it cautiously and with proper technique. Be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of the technique and use it when appropriate.
Knee Bar Submission in MMA
The knee bar is a submission hold that has been widely utilized in MMA to induce an opponent to submit. It is a leg lock variation that applies pressure on the knee joint, causing discomfort and perhaps significant harm. A grappler usually wraps their legs around their opponent’s leg to do a knee bar.
Famous Fighters Who Use the Knee Bar Submission
Many famous MMA fighters have used the knee bar submission to win fights. One of the most famous examples is Frank Mir, who used the knee bar to defeat Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira at UFC 92. Mir caught Nogueira’s leg after a failed takedown attempt and quickly transitioned to the knee bar, forcing Nogueira to tap out.
Another fighter who is known for his use of the knee bar is Rousimar Palhares. Palhares has a reputation for being a dangerous submission artist, and his knee bars are particularly feared. He has used the knee bar to win several fights in his career, including a victory over Dan Henderson at UFC 88.
Knee Bar Submission Techniques Used in MMA
To perform a knee bar submission in MMA, a fighter must first secure their opponent’s leg. This can be done in a variety of ways, including catching a kick or taking an opponent down to the ground. Once the leg is secured, the fighter will typically use their own legs to apply pressure to the knee joint, while using their arms to control their opponent’s upper body.
One common technique for applying the knee bar is to transition from the guard position. From this position, a fighter can wrap their legs around their opponent’s leg and use their hips to apply pressure to the knee joint. Another technique is to use a rolling knee bar, where the fighter rolls over their opponent to apply additional pressure to the knee joint.
It is important to note that the knee bar can be a dangerous submission, and should only be used by experienced fighters who have been trained in its proper application. Applying the knee bar incorrectly can cause serious injury to an opponent, and can also result in disqualification or other penalties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knee bar submission is a highly effective technique in MMA. It is a leg lock that targets the knee joint and can cause significant damage if executed correctly.
Knee bar submission is a versatile technique that can be used in different positions and situations. It can be used as a counter to takedowns, as a submission from the top or bottom position, and as a way to transition to other submissions.
However, knee bar submission is not without risks. It requires precise timing, technique, and control to avoid injuring your opponent or yourself. It is also important to note that knee bar submission is illegal in some MMA organizations, so it is essential to check the rules before attempting it in a fight.
To execute a knee bar submission, you need to have a good understanding of the technique, as well as the anatomy and mechanics of the knee joint. You also need to be aware of your opponent’s movements and reactions, and be able to adjust your technique accordingly.
In summary, knee bar submission is a powerful technique that can give you a significant advantage in MMA. However, it requires careful training, preparation, and execution to be effective and safe. By mastering this technique, you can add another weapon to your arsenal and increase your chances of success in the octagon.
