Introduction to Kesa Gatame

Kesa gatame, commonly known as scarfold position, is a fundamental side control variant that practitioners have intuitively used since childhood. This instructional guide covers the mechanics of entering kesa gatame and explores ten distinct submission techniques available from this dominant position.

Entry from Side Control

When an opponent attempts an underhook escape from side control, the controlling grappler should immediately secure a frame across the opponent's tricep and elbow. By shooting the knee through and maintaining proper body positioning, the controller establishes kesa gatame while preventing the opponent's guard recovery.

Proper Base and Positioning

Optimal kesa gatame positioning requires the controller's feet at a 45-degree angle—one at twelve o'clock and one at nine o'clock—creating a stable base. The controller should pin the opponent's shoulder and chest to the mat while keeping their weight distributed forward, preventing bridge escapes and allowing effective submission setups.

Kimura Lock from Kesa Gatame

The kimura submission begins by pinning the opponent's near arm across their body and inserting the controller's forearm underneath at the elbow joint. The controller then secures a grip across the opponent's wrist, creates a pistol grip, and applies vertical pressure through hip and arm rotation to hyperextend the shoulder joint.

Wrist Lock Counter

When the opponent defends the kimura by raising their arm, the controller can transition to a wrist lock by locating the opponent's wrist and applying bending pressure. This sneaky submission capitalizes on the opponent's natural defense movement while maintaining positional control.

Arm Bar Using Thigh Pin

When the opponent resists the kimura with strength, the controller pins the opponent's arm against their own thigh while maintaining upper body pressure. By sliding the knee down and extending through the arm while controlling the opponent's head, the controller can execute an effective arm bar that exploits this alternative position.

Americana Lock

The americana submission is executed by securing the opponent's near arm and positioning the controller's forearm against the opponent's wrist. The controller then interlocks their hands and applies rotational pressure that hyperextends the opponent's shoulder joint—a technique requiring controlled application due to its extreme leverage.

Back Arm Bend Submission

If the opponent's arm moves out of position during preceding submission attempts, the controller can locate the opponent's extended arm and apply a bending lock by wrapping underneath. This opportunistic submission capitalizes on failed setup transitions while maintaining positional dominance.

Jawline Choke

The jawline choke is applied by positioning the wrist underneath the opponent's jawline and applying upward pressure combined with a motorcycle grip (one hand gripping the opposite forearm). This technique restricts the opponent's airway through focused pressure rather than traditional collar control, creating an effective finishing option from kesa gatame.

Kesa Gatame Submissions - How to get into kesa gatame and 10 different submissions - BJJ tutorials

Grappling Nerds

Hon Kesa Gatame

3 min read·9 key moments·PT10M20S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Kesa Gatame
•Entry from Side Control
•Proper Base and Positioning
•Kimura Lock from Kesa Gatame

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Grappling Nerds. In today's video, we're diving deep into Kesa Gatame, also known as the Scarf Hold. We'll show you how to get into this dominant position and share 10 powerful submissions you can execute from there. Kesa Gatame is a fundamental BJJ technique that offers excellent ground control and opens up a variety of submission grappling opportunities. We'll guide you step-by-step on entering the Scarf Hold effectively and demonstrate a range of submissions, including arm locks, chokes, and more. Whether you're new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or a seasoned practitioner, mastering Kesa Gatame and the BJJ techniques we cover will significantly enhance your submission grappling game. These moves are essential for anyone looking to improve their ground control and dominate their opponents. In this video, we'll cover: How to transition into Kesa Gatame from various positions Maintaining strong ground control while in the Scarf Hold Executing 10 effective submission techniques from Kesa Gatame Tips to prevent escapes and counter-attacks By incorporating these BJJ techniques into your training, you'll expand your arsenal and become more versatile on the mats. Submission grappling is all about control and capitalizing on opportunities, and the Scarf Hold provides just that. If you find this video helpful, make sure to subscribe to our channel for more BJJ techniques, submission grappling tips, and strategies! Stay connected with us on Instagram for daily updates and behind-the-scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/grapplingnerds/ Thanks for watching, and we'll see you on the mats!

Related Techniques

Kuzure Kesa Gatame Reverse Kesa Gatame Standard Kesa Gatame

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about hon kesa gatame?

This video covers introduction to kesa gatame, entry from side control, proper base and positioning. It provides detailed instruction from Grappling Nerds.

How long does it take to learn hon kesa gatame?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.