The Estima Lock Top Position is an advanced leg attack position where the top practitioner controls the opponent’s foot and ankle, applying rotational pressure to the ankle joint through an inverted grip configuration. Named after the Estima brothers who popularized this technique in high-level competition, this position represents a specialized foot lock that combines elements of traditional ankle locks with unique rotational mechanics that distinguish it from conventional straight ankle attacks. From the top position, the practitioner maintains superior control while isolating the opponent’s leg, creating a direct path to submission through proper mechanical application.
This position is most commonly entered from leg entanglement positions like 50-50 Guard, Single Leg X-Guard, or during passing attempts where the opponent’s foot becomes exposed and accessible for the inverted grip. The top position offers significant advantages over the bottom variant, providing superior control and leverage through gravity assistance, stability in base, and the ability to apply pressure while maintaining balance. The Estima Lock is particularly effective in no-gi grappling where the opponent cannot use gi grips to defend, though it remains viable and dangerous in gi competition as well when properly executed with technical precision.
Success from the top position requires precise technical execution including proper figure-four grip configuration around the heel and forefoot, optimal hip positioning against the opponent’s lower leg to create the necessary fulcrum, and body angle management that maximizes rotational pressure while preventing counter-attacks. The position integrates seamlessly into comprehensive leg lock systems, offering natural transitions to toe holds, straight ankle locks, and saddle positions when the opponent defends. Understanding the anatomical mechanics of the ankle joint and applying pressure gradually and safely ensures both submission effectiveness and training partner safety during practice and competition application.
Position Definition
- Top practitioner controls opponent’s foot with both hands in figure-four configuration, securing the heel as a fixed point while the forearm positions across the top of the foot to create leverage for rotational pressure application
- Opponent’s leg is isolated and extended away from their body in inverted orientation with heel higher than toes, preventing them from recovering guard or establishing effective defensive frames
- Top practitioner maintains stable base with hips positioned over or against the opponent’s extended leg, distributing weight to prevent the opponent from retracting their foot while keeping control secure
- Opponent’s heel is controlled firmly and the toes are directed toward the opponent’s own body, creating the precise angular position necessary for the Estima Lock’s characteristic twisting motion and submission mechanics
Prerequisites
- Successful entry from 50-50 Guard, Single Leg X-Guard, or leg entanglement position
- Isolation of opponent’s foot away from their defensive posture
- Control of opponent’s ankle with both hands secured in inverted configuration
- Opponent’s leg extended and unable to retract or establish defensive frames
- Proper body angle established perpendicular or diagonal to opponent’s body
Key Offensive Principles
- Maintain constant two-handed control on the opponent’s foot throughout the position with figure-four grip securing heel and forefoot
- Position forearm blade across the top of the foot to maximize rotational leverage while hands control directional pressure
- Keep opponent’s leg extended and isolated, preventing them from recovering guard or creating defensive frames with free leg
- Apply gradual rotational pressure toward the opponent’s body while controlling the heel as fixed point for mechanical advantage
- Stabilize your own base to prevent the opponent from destabilizing you or escaping through rolling or scrambling
- Coordinate hand position with hip pressure against opponent’s calf to create optimal submission mechanics and control
- Be prepared to transition to alternative leg attacks if opponent defends successfully rather than forcing incomplete submissions
Available Attacks
Estima Lock → Won by Submission
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 20%
- Intermediate: 35%
- Advanced: 50%
Toe Hold → Toe Hold Control
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 25%
- Intermediate: 40%
- Advanced: 55%
Straight Ankle Lock → Straight Ankle Lock Control
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 30%
- Intermediate: 45%
- Advanced: 60%
Transition to Saddle → Saddle
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 25%
- Intermediate: 40%
- Advanced: 55%
Kneebar → Kneebar Control
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 20%
- Intermediate: 35%
- Advanced: 50%
Transition to Ashi Garami → Ashi Garami
Success Rates:
- Beginner: 35%
- Intermediate: 50%
- Advanced: 65%
Decision Making from This Position
If opponent’s foot is fully isolated and they are flat on their back:
- Execute Estima Lock → Won by Submission (Probability: 50%)
- Execute Toe Hold → Toe Hold Control (Probability: 40%)
If opponent begins sitting up or establishing frames with their free leg:
- Execute Transition to Ashi Garami → Ashi Garami (Probability: 55%)
- Execute Backstep to Saddle → Saddle (Probability: 45%)
If opponent successfully extracts their foot or creates significant space:
- Execute Leg Drag Pass → Side Control (Probability: 50%)
- Execute Standing Pass → Standing Position (Probability: 40%)
If opponent attempts to counter with their own leg attack:
- Execute Clear the Leg → Half Guard Pass (Probability: 45%)
- Execute Transition to 50-50 → 50-50 Guard (Probability: 35%)
Optimal Submission Paths
Direct Estima Lock Finish
50-50 Guard → Estima Lock Top → Estima Lock → Won by Submission
Estima to Toe Hold Chain
Single Leg X-Guard → Estima Lock Top → Toe Hold Control → Toe Hold → Won by Submission
Ashi Garami to Estima Transition
Ashi Garami → Estima Lock Top → Estima Lock → Won by Submission
Saddle Backstep to Estima
Saddle → Estima Lock Top → Estima Lock → Won by Submission
Success Rates and Statistics
| Skill Level | Retention Rate | Advancement Probability | Submission Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 35% | 25% | 20% |
| Intermediate | 50% | 40% | 35% |
| Advanced | 65% | 55% | 50% |
Average Time in Position: 30-60 seconds