Top Side Saddle | Inside Heel Hook

From the top side saddle position, there are several advantages, including the ability to gauge your partner's reaction and determine the best course of action. One of the options from this position is the inside heel hook. Here's how to execute it:

1. Only go for the inside heel hook if you can control the second leg. If the leg is available, grab the knee with one hand and get a full Achilles lock grip on the leg with the other hand.
2. With your hand wrapped around the leg and your fist to your chest, fold the leg inside and fall back until the leg comes free. Cross your ankles to control the bottom leg with your legs.
3. Reach inside with your free hand and grab your partner's heel. You may need to walk your hands up to get a good grip on the heel.
4. Turn your knee in the direction of the controlled leg and insert your knee inside to clear the second leg.
5. With a good grip on your partner's heel, throw your elbow back to cover their toes while still holding the heel.
6. Place your wrist underneath the heel, capturing the toes first and then placing your wrist on the heel.
7. To finish, cross your feet, pinch your knees together, and rotate your knees in the direction of the controlled leg as you raise the heel up to your jaw. Lock your hands together for the inside heel hook.

Remember, the emphasis is more on your hips and less on your hands when executing the inside heel hook. It's also relatively easy to get back up to the initial top side saddle position from here. Simply control the leg with your free hand, place your hand next to your hip on the mat, use your leg to come underneath your partner's butt, rotate in the direction of the controlled leg, and place your hand on the mat to get back on top.