The Saddle by Lachlan Giles – In-Depth Review

A complete saddle system that tightens your leg lock finishes.

The Bottom Line

You will learn how to enter saddle safely and secure double trouble. You will get finishing chains for common defenses. You will not get beginner-level leg lock theory.

⚡️ Quick facts

Best for: Experienced leg lockers

Skip if: You avoid heel hooks

Tech focus: Saddle, Double Trouble, Outside Heel Hook

Biggest takeaway: Control before finishing

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What You'll Learn

A six-part masterclass on entering, controlling, and finishing from the saddle (inside sankaku). It covers double trouble, bottom saddle, transitioning to top, and solving common defenses.
Ideal if you already finish from 50/50 and want a tighter, higher-control leg lock hub.

Primary Techniques You'll Drill

  • Saddle
  • Inside Sankaku
  • Double Trouble
  • Cloverleaf
  • Aoki Lock
  • Outside Heel Hook

Format & Level

  • Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual, Footage Breakdown
  • Skill level: Advanced
  • Format: No-Gi
  • Runtime: 4 hours and 11 minutes
  • Volumes: 6

Should You Buy It?

Wait for daily deal. I finished more cleanly when I prioritized double trouble before chasing any heel exposure.

Why Lachlan Giles?

Giles is widely regarded for sophisticated leg attacks at elite level and brings that clarity to saddle mechanics.

Community feedback

Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.

😍 Why People Love It

  • Comprehensive system from entries to troubleshooting within saddle.
  • Clear finishing mechanics for multiple submissions from double trouble.
  • Good narrated rolling makes the concepts actionable.

🤔 Common Criticisms

  • Advanced content assumes comfort with leg lock positions.
  • Some users prefer Ryan Hall's 50/50-centric approach instead of saddle transitions.
  • Heel hook emphasis limits gi application for some.

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Smart Alternatives

Sources & References

Video Breakdowns

Official listing: View The Saddle on BJJ Fanatics

Additional References

Your next step

You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.

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