Kesa Gatame

From Red River Judo
Kesa Gatame
General information
DomainNe-Waza
ClassificationKatame-Waza
Sub-ClassificationOsae-Waza
KodokanYes
IJF LegalYes
GroupingOsaekomi-Waza
RelatedKuzure Kesa Gatame
Kashira Gatame
ComplexityBeginner
Technique name
AliasScarf Hold
Hon Kesa Gatame
Japanese袈裟固
EnglishScarf hold
Korean곁누르기

Kesa Gatame (袈裟固, also known as "Scarf Hold") is a fundamental pinning technique used in judo. It is classified under Osaekomi-waza (pinning techniques) and is commonly used in both practice and competition.

Etymology

The term "Kesa Gatame" translates to "Scarf Hold" in English. The name is derived from the position of the practitioner's arms, which resemble the way a scarf is draped over the shoulders.

Execution

To execute Kesa Gatame:

  1. From a side control position, the tori (the person applying the technique) turns slightly sideways.
  2. The tori encircles the uke's (the person being pinned) head with one arm.
  3. The tori's other arm controls the uke's arm by holding it close to their chest.
  4. The tori spreads their legs for stability, ensuring a strong base to maintain the pin.

Key Points

  • Control: The tori must maintain tight control over the uke's head and arm to prevent escapes.
  • Base: A wide and stable base is crucial to resist attempts by the uke to roll or bridge out of the pin.
  • Pressure: Applying consistent pressure on the uke's chest and head helps in maintaining the pin.

Variations

There are several variations of Kesa Gatame, including:

  • Hon Kesa Gatame (本袈裟固): The standard form of Kesa Gatame.
  • Kuzure Kesa Gatame (崩袈裟固): A modified version where the tori controls the uke's arm differently.

Escapes

Common escapes from Kesa Gatame include:

  • Bridge and Roll: The uke bridges and rolls towards the tori to create space and escape.
  • Leg Hook: The uke hooks the tori's leg with their own leg to disrupt the tori's base and escape.

Submissions

And with some transitioning, the arm held is at risk of many other locks.

Also one step away is Kata-Gatame. Although categorized as a mat hold, it is also a choke if enough pressure is exerted correctly.

Applications

Kesa Gatame is often used as a transitional pinning technique following a throw or during ground fighting (newaza). It is effective in both judo and other grappling arts such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Demonstration