Armlock vs. Armbar: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sara Rehman || Updated on November 10, 2023
An armlock is a general term for joint locks on the arm, while an armbar specifically hyperextends the elbow joint.
Key Differences
An armlock encompasses a variety of joint locks applied to the arm, targeting different joints like the shoulder, elbow, or wrist. An armbar, in contrast, is a specific type of armlock focused on hyperextending the opponent's elbow.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
The term "armlock" is used in martial arts to refer to any technique that immobilizes the arm by applying pressure to joints. "Armbar," specifically, is a technique where one leverages their legs or arms against the opponent's arm, extending the elbow joint beyond its normal range of motion.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Armlocks can be applied in multiple ways, using leverage and body position to control or cause pain to an opponent. An armbar is executed by positioning oneself perpendicular to the opponent, using the hips and legs to extend the elbow.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
The effectiveness of an armlock depends on the joint targeted and the technique used, suitable for various defensive or offensive strategies. The armbar, with its focus on the elbow, is highly effective in submissions, making it a popular move in sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Training in armlocks covers a broad range of techniques, providing versatility in combat situations. Training specifically in armbars focuses on mastering the mechanics of elbow joint manipulation, crucial for executing effective submissions.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
General term for various joint locks on arm
Specific technique hyperextending elbow joint
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Target Joints
Can target shoulder, elbow, or wrist
Specifically targets the elbow joint
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Usage in Martial Arts
Broad range of defensive/offensive moves
Focused on submissions
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Training Focus
Covers a range of joint manipulation
Concentrates on elbow joint manipulation
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
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Armlock and Armbar Definitions
Armlock
A technique to control or cause pain by locking the arm.
The armlock was effective in subduing the assailant.
Huma Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Armbar
Used to submit an opponent in martial arts.
She won the match with a perfectly executed armbar.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Armlock
Involves leverage and body positioning.
The armlock required precise body positioning to be effective.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Armbar
Involves using legs or arms to extend the elbow.
He applied the armbar using his legs for leverage.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Armlock
A general term for joint locks that immobilize the arm.
He applied an armlock to control his opponent.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
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Armbar
Targets the elbow joint for submissions.
The armbar is a common move in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Armlock
Used in martial arts for defense or offense.
His proficiency in armlocks made him a formidable fighter.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Armbar
Executed by positioning perpendicular to the opponent.
Proper positioning is key to a successful armbar.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Armlock
Can target various joints like the shoulder or wrist.
She used an armlock that focused on the shoulder joint.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Armbar
A technique specifically hyperextending the elbow joint.
The fighter tapped out due to the armbar.
Huma Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Armlock
A hold in wrestling and martial arts in which the opponent's arm is immobilized, often by flexing or extending the opponent's elbow or shoulder joint.
Sara Rehman
Oct 30, 2022
Armbar
(combat sports) A joint lock where the elbow is hyperextended in order to cause pain or injury.
Sara Rehman
Oct 30, 2022
Armlock
Any of several distinct attacks against an opponent’s arm in martial arts.
Sara Rehman
Oct 30, 2022
FAQs
Does an armbar only target the elbow joint?
Yes, the armbar specifically hyperextends the elbow joint.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are armlocks used in various martial arts?
Yes, armlocks are used in many martial arts for control or submission.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Can armlocks be defensive techniques?
Yes, armlocks can be used defensively to control an attacker.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Is the armbar primarily used for submissions?
Yes, the armbar is mainly used to submit opponents in combat sports.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Is the armbar popular in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Yes, the armbar is a staple technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Can an armlock target joints other than the elbow?
Yes, armlocks can target the shoulder, elbow, or wrist.
Huma Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Do armlocks require strength or technique?
Armlocks rely more on technique and leverage than brute strength.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are armlocks suitable for self-defense?
Yes, armlocks can be effective in self-defense situations.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Do armlocks require flexibility?
Some armlocks may require flexibility for effective application.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is the armbar difficult to escape?
Yes, a well-executed armbar can be very difficult to escape.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can armlocks lead to injury?
If applied incorrectly, armlocks can cause injury.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Can the armbar be applied from various positions?
Yes, the armbar can be applied from multiple positions.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is the armbar effective in MMA?
Yes, the armbar is a highly effective submission technique in MMA.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are armlocks legal in all martial arts competitions?
The legality of armlocks varies depending on the rules of the competition.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Do armlocks require body positioning skills?
Yes, effective armlocks require proper body positioning.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can beginners learn the armbar?
Yes, beginners can learn the armbar, but it requires practice.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is the armbar mainly an offensive technique?
Yes, the armbar is primarily used offensively to submit an opponent.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Can armlocks be used in real-life combat situations?
Yes, armlocks can be effective in real-life self-defense or combat scenarios.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sara RehmanSara Rehman is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience at Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Information Technology, she combines her academic prowess with her passion for writing to deliver insightful and well-researched content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
