Two vs One
The Importance of Limb Isolation and Control
In grappling, one of the most powerful principles is the ability to create asymmetry—the concept of isolating one of your opponent’s limbs to gain control and leverage. This is particularly true when attacking the legs, where limb isolation and control can make or break a submission attempt. However, when dealing with an opponent who knows how to defend effectively, this principle takes on an even greater significance.
Many practitioners, especially in the context of leg attacks, fall into the trap of rushing the submission attempt too quickly. It’s tempting to go for the finish when you sense your opponent’s limb is “almost” isolated, but failing to secure proper control can result in a failed attempt or an easy escape by your opponent. The key takeaway here is that your focus should always be on control and limb isolation first, and submission second.
The Struggle of Attacking a Defended Leg
When you’re attacking the leg of an opponent who knows how to defend, the equation changes drastically. What may have worked in the past—like grabbing the leg and immediately going for the submission—might now be met with resistance. The limb you’re attacking will often feel stronger than you expect, especially when your opponent uses their free leg (and potentially their arms) to counter your efforts. The leg you’re isolating may overpower your arms, and your opponent’s defensive reactions can quickly compromise your position and control.
Additionally, even if you manage to grab the leg, escaping becomes a real possibility for your opponent. The key to preventing this escape is maintaining constant control over the attacked limb and isolating it to the point that their ability to fight back is significantly limited. By securing their limb and cutting off any avenues for escape (such as their free leg or arms), you eliminate their chance to resist and create a more straightforward path to submission.
The Example of Robert Degle’s Control
In the image shared by @robertdeglejj, we can see a sequence that highlights how control and isolation play out in practice. At first glance, his control over the primary leg might seem like it’s enough to initiate a submission. However, notice how he also secures the secondary leg—the free limb. While this may take a bit longer to execute, it dramatically increases the likelihood of a successful submission.
Why is this important? Because in grappling, the secondary limb often provides the escape route for the opponent. Without securing both limbs, your opponent will use the free leg (and any available arm control) to create space, break free, or counter the submission. By maintaining control of the primary leg and isolating the secondary leg, Robert ensures that his opponent has no opportunity to escape, creating a much tighter and more efficient submission.
The Focus on Control Over Speed
While it can be tempting to rush through the process, thinking that speed will win the day, the reality is that control is far more important. Speed is often a byproduct of good control, but if you rush and try to sprint through a submission, you’re likely to leave gaps that your opponent can exploit.
Instead, by isolating and controlling both of your opponent’s limbs (even when they resist), you create a stable foundation for the submission. As you maintain tight control, your opponent will find it progressively harder to escape, and your chances of securing the finish become exponentially higher.
Training for Defensive Mechanics
It’s important to remember that the goal of your training is not to be faster than an unskilled opponent, but to learn how to control and finish an opponent who understands the fundamentals of defense. Understanding how to isolate and maintain control over the limb you are attacking will not only make you more effective in your submissions, but it will also help you avoid being countered or swept by a knowledgeable opponent.
By focusing on both the technical and defensive aspects of your submission game, you develop a deeper understanding of the concepts of control and isolation, which is critical when facing a more experienced or defensive opponent. If you can dominate these elements, you will find that submission attempts become smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more successful.
Key Takeaways for Training and Application
1. Isolation First: Prioritize isolating your opponent’s limb before going for the submission. This means securing their primary leg and controlling their free limb to prevent them from escaping.
2. Control: Focus on maintaining control, particularly by using leverage and proper positioning. Control will naturally lead to a higher success rate with submissions.
3. Patience: Avoid rushing to the submission. Take your time to establish dominance over the limb, and only attempt the finish when you have complete control.
4. Train with Resistance: Drilling against partners who understand how to defend is crucial for honing your ability to isolate and control limbs effectively. This will help you build the awareness needed to maintain control even when your opponent is actively trying to escape.
By emphasizing control and isolation in your grappling, you’ll find that attacking submissions becomes not only more effective, but also more sustainable, especially when facing skilled opponents who are able to defend and counterattack.