# How do joint locks work conceptually?

Joint locks work by either rotating a bent limb or hyperextending a straight limb. Armbars and kneebars hyperextend straight limbs. Americanas, kimuras, and heel hooks rotate bent limbs. Thinking of joint locks this way makes it easier to be creative and flow while rolling. There are many unorthodox...

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**Tags:** technique

**Source:** [BJJ Notes Knowledge Base](https://www.bjjnotes.app/knowledge-base/how-do-joint-locks-work-conceptually)