A complete, repeatable leg lock system built on control then break.
The Bottom Line
You learn entries, control and finishes in a strict order that protects the knee line first. The curriculum reduces randomness and makes your attacks predictable and safe. Expect dense theory and long lectures before the drills pay off.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: No-gi submission hunters
Skip if: You dislike theory blocks
Tech focus: Inside Heel Hook, Cross Ashi, Knee Line Control, Entries, Breaking Mechanics, Re Entries, Counter Leglocks
Biggest takeaway: Control the knee line first.
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What You'll Learn
The foundational Danaher system that kicked off the modern leg lock era. It organizes entries, ashigarami positions, heel exposure and breaking into a sequence you can repeat.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Inside Heel Hook
- Outside Heel Hook
- Ashi Garami
- Cross Ashi
- Single Leg X
- Knee Line Control
- Entries
- Finishing Mechanics
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual, Drill Heavy
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 10 hours and 45 minutes
- Volumes: 8
- Released: 2018
Should You Buy It?
Buy it now. I progressed fastest when I drilled knee-line retention as a separate skill before finishing mechanics.
Why John Danaher?
Danaher is widely regarded as the architect of the leg lock renaissance and a leading systems thinker in grappling. He emphasizes control hierarchies before submissions. His coaching produced ADCC champions and UFC titleholders. He integrates conceptual roadmaps with specific grips and body positions. Today he teaches at New Wave Jiu Jitsu in Austin.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Structured curriculum helps newer leg lockers avoid random hunting.
- Over nine hours of content reshaped understanding of the game.
- Clear knee-line and control theory translates to live success.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Older release had production issues before reshoot.
- Very theory heavy; beginners may struggle to stay engaged.
- Some prefer free Dean Lister resources over a paid set.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- Triangles: Enter The System – Pairs well when leg locks are countered by posture. (Price: $197.00, 8 vols, 2019)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Leglocks: Enter The System on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
