Knee Bar: Leg Lock Attacking the Knee Joint
The knee bar is a leg lock submission that hyperextends the opponent's knee joint by trapping the leg between the attacker's legs and hips, then applying pressure against the natural bend of the knee. It is essentially an armbar applied to the leg, using the same mechanical principle of isolating a joint and forcing it beyond its range of motion. The knee bar threatens the ligaments of the knee, particularly the ACL and PCL.
Origins and Usage
Knee bars have been used in catch wrestling, sambo, and various grappling traditions for over a century. They gained prominence in modern combat sports through sambo practitioners and submission grapplers who demonstrated their effectiveness in competition. While leg locks in general were once considered low-percentage attacks, the modern grappling revolution has elevated them to primary weapons.
The knee bar can be attacked from numerous positions, including half guard, scrambles, and during takedown transitions. It is particularly effective as a counter to leg-based passes and guard recoveries, catching opponents as they transition between positions.
In Underground Fighting
In underground fighting where submissions are allowed, the knee bar is a devastating technique because of the permanent damage it can inflict. Knee ligament tears can end careers, and in the heat of an underground bout without experienced referees, fighters may not recognize the danger quickly enough to tap before damage occurs.
The knee bar is a weapon of choice for technical grapplers competing in underground circuits. It allows them to attack from seemingly neutral or disadvantaged positions, surprising opponents who are focused on standup exchanges or upper-body submissions.
Related Terms
- Armbar -- The upper-body equivalent using the same joint lock principle
- Tap Out -- Submitting to escape before knee damage occurs
- Half Guard -- A common position for knee bar entries