Kata Gatame
| Kata Gatame | |
|---|---|
| Arm Triangle | |
| General information | |
| Domain | Ne-Waza |
| Classification | Katame-Waza |
| Sub-Classification | Osae-Waza |
| Kodokan | Yes |
| IJF Legal | Yes |
| Grouping | Osaekomi-Waza |
| Related | Kesa Gatame Kata Gatame Jime |
| Complexity | Beginner |
| Technique name | |
| Alias | Arm Triangle |
| Japanese | 肩固め |
| English | Shoulder Hold |
Kata Gatame (肩固め), also known as the shoulder hold, is a fundamental pinning technique in judo. At Red River Judo we differentiate the Pin Kata Gatame, and the choke that can be done from the same position as Kata Gatame Jime, sometimes abbreviated to Kata Jime.
Description
Kata Gatame is a pinning technique where the tori (the person applying the technique) uses their shoulder and arm to control the uke (the person being pinned). The tori traps one of uke's arms against their neck, using their own head and shoulder to apply pressure and maintain control.
Execution Steps
- Positioning: Start from a side control position.
- Arm Placement: Slide your arm under uke's neck and around their far arm, bringing your hand to your own shoulder or clasping your hands together.
- Head and Shoulder Pressure: Use your head to press against uke's trapped arm, pushing it into their neck.
- Leg Positioning: Keep one knee close to uke's body for stability, and the other leg extended for balance.
- Applying Pressure: Squeeze your arms together and apply downward pressure with your shoulder to secure the hold.
Key Points
- Control: Ensure that uke's arm is tightly trapped against their neck.
- Pressure: Maintain consistent pressure with your shoulder and head to prevent uke from escaping.
- Balance: Keep a stable base with your legs to avoid being rolled over.
Common Variations
- Seated Kata Gatame: Performed from a seated position.
- Kneeling Kata Gatame: Executed while kneeling beside uke.
- Sprawled Kata Gatame: Involves sprawling your legs back for added pressure and control.
Escapes and Counters
- Elbow Drive Escape: Uke can try to drive their elbow into tori's side to create space and escape.
- Bridge and Roll: Uke can bridge and roll to disrupt tori's balance and escape the hold.
Demonstration