Tyne Valley Martial Arts

In this weeks Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes we are going to take a look at what is often thought of a as a transitional position in Jiu Jitsu. The “Kesa-gatame” (Scarf hold) name comes from the fact that it resembles the over-one-shoulder robe worn by priests and in Judo is one of the seven Mat holds.

On first look, you can see why this position is popular in Judo as it forms almost a useful landing hold from any over the shoulder or hip throw. The opponents arm is pressed against their own neck by your hip as you wrap your arm underneath their opposite shoulder and utilise your supporting leg as a grip.

The danger of the hold is if the guy on the bottom manages to slip his arm out and move to take your back, especially when there is less friction rolling without a gi, therefore it is mission critical to make certain the weight is correctly applied and there is no space left in the cradle to the opponents neck.

Secondly if the supporting leg is in the wrong place then pinned guy can make a frame and reverse the position with a simple press and some momentum.

The position basics are shown very well in this video from The Grappling Academy alongside a range of submissions including a couple of head and arm choke variations.

Submissions from Kesa Gatamie

Whilst the position is often used as a way of getting a more dominant side pin by utilising your hip to force the opponents elbow high, there are several finishes available from the Scarf Hold.

Shoulder Locks – Trapping the wrist of the arm you have pinned may seem like the obvious choice but perhaps using your far leg as the way to trap it not so much. There are multiple variations of this attack in both Gi and No Gi BJJ.

Straight Arm Bar – Your opponent will often react to a shoulder lock attempt by straightening their arm to avoid it. Hop your far leg over, lift your hip and get the tap.
Demonstrated beautifully here by Dr. Jeffrey Hudson of Gracie Ohio Academy.

Head & Arm Chokes – There are two options for this choke from Kesa Gatamie, one is to set up the choke and switch over to a side pin to finish the choke, the other is to lift up your opponents head into the choke, shown in the first video HERE. Both are effective!