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ControlFundamentalGiNo-Gi

Scarf hold

Also called Kesa gatame

A judo pin from the side. Seated against their ribs, you control their head with one arm and their near arm with the other, legs spread so a bridge can't roll you.

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Key steps

  1. Sit down at their side and wedge your hip into their ribs.
  2. Reach one arm behind their head and hug it in toward your chest.
  3. Pin their near arm against your side with your other arm, holding just above the elbow or at the sleeve.
  4. Set your legs in a wide split, front and back, and let your weight settle onto your hip.
  5. Shift your hips as they bridge so your weight stays on their chest.

Key details

  • The arm is the anchor of the hold; once it slides out, they have a frame to escape with.
  • With your feet close together, one strong bridge can tip you; keep them far apart.
  • Sit on your hip, not your back, or their bridge will roll you.