Historical Context of Neck Cranks and Spine Locks

Neck cranks were banned from Judo around 1925, while leg locks faced prohibition circa 1922. This presentation documents techniques from classical Judo that targeted the neck and spine before these restrictions were implemented. The instructor references Mikensuke Kawahishi's foundational text "My Method of Judo" as a primary historical source for these techniques.

Kubihishigi: Classical Neck Crank

Kubihishigi is executed by pulling directly on the opponent's head while maintaining a stable base position. The practitioner positions one leg as if in a mount while extending the other leg upward to create maximum stability against hip rotation or escape attempts. This foundational technique can cause significant damage and requires progressive application to avoid injury.

Sai Shigi: Scissor Neck Compression

Sai shigi involves grabbing the belt and applying pressure through leg extension and hip drive, mechanically similar to a straight ankle lock applied to the neck. Rather than pulling upward on the wrists as in a guillotine choke, the practitioner extends the hips and pulls backward while maintaining the arm position. This technique creates lateral neck pressure and requires careful, progressive application.

Tate Kubi Shigi: Standing Rotational Neck Crank

Tate kubi shigi is performed from a standing position by creating rotational torsion across the neck rather than applying vertical or squeezing pressure. The technique involves rotating the body to bend the neck sideways, distinguishing it from guillotine and standard choke mechanics. This approach generates dangerous lateral stress on the cervical spine.

Gyaku Shigi and Reverse Neck Cranks

Gyaku shigi operates similarly to Kubihishigi but with diagonal leg positioning that extends through hip drive. The practitioner pulls the head and hands backward while extending the hips in a motion analogous to a straight ankle lock. Instructors emphasize this technique as particularly dangerous and requiring only progressive, controlled pressure for submission.

Tomoe Kuihiji: Circular Neck Compression

Tomoe kuihiji involves grabbing the belt while compressing downward on the neck, creating both cervical and potential chest pressure. The technique progresses toward submission through gradual compression rather than sudden force. The mechanism can produce choking effects as well as direct neck tension, making careful partner communication essential.

Keizagatame Kuihiji: Rotational Scarf Hold Neck Crank

Keizagatame kuihiji modifies the classical scarf hold by rotating the torso toward the legs while gripping the head rather than the collar to create neck torsion. This rotational variation generates dangerous lateral pressure on the cervical spine distinct from standard scarf hold mechanics. Backward and downward pulling can additionally create chest compression effects.

Ryo Ashi Hishigi: Double Leg Spine Lock

Ryo ashi hishigi resembles a Boston crab but extends through the hips like a straight ankle lock to compress the spine. The technique can be applied as a single-leg variation (kata ashi hishigi) by turning and sitting down to pressure the spine. Historical demonstrations from master practitioners show the mechanism of pulling on the leg, rotating, and extending hips before sitting to complete the lock.

The lost neck cranks and spine locks of Judo 首関節技

Chadi

Spine Cranks

3 min read·8 key moments·PT8M19S video

Key Takeaways

•Historical Context of Neck Cranks and Spine Locks
•Kubihishigi: Classical Neck Crank
•Sai Shigi: Scissor Neck Compression
•Tate Kubi Shigi: Standing Rotational Neck Crank

This video details the neck cranks and spine locks of old Judo. Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chadijudo Rickson's self defense unit: https://www.gallerr.com/academy/rickson-gracie/self-defense-unit/home My method of Judo PDF: https://www.pdfdrive.com/m%C3%A9thode-kawaishi-d39736663.html Josh Simon's website/shop https://simonbjj.com/ #Judo #NeckCranks #SpineLocks #BJJ #Sambo #Wrestling #GrandPrix #GrandSlam #Olympics #OlympicGames #MMA #UFC #Grappling #柔道 #講道館 #公益財団法人講道館 #嘉納治五郎 #高專柔道 #三角固 #бөх #講道館柔道 #Kodokan #KodokanJudo #柔術 #禁止技

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Spine Compression Locks

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about spine cranks?

This video covers historical context of neck cranks and spine locks, kubihishigi: classical neck crank, sai shigi: scissor neck compression. It provides detailed instruction from Chadi.

How long does it take to learn spine cranks?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.