Arm Break with Shoulder Lock
The practitioner blocks the opponent's strike and transitions into a control position on the arm. By bending the opponent's arm and securing a shoulder lock, the defender can break the arm while simultaneously displacing laterally to neutralize further attacks.
Wrist Lock with Neck Strike
After blocking the opponent's attack, the defender applies a wrist lock while simultaneously striking the opponent's neck. The defender wraps their arm around the opponent's neck, using the forearm and triceps for support during the lock.
Kick Defense with High Takedown
When the opponent attempts a kick, the defender can counter with a strike or execute a pulling takedown. The defender may also transition into a high-speed hold or controlled position depending on the opponent's response.
Exterior Position Wrist Grab and Shoulder Lock Takedown
The defender positions themselves on the opponent's outside, grabbing the wrist and pulling downward before pivoting to apply a shoulder lock that brings the opponent to the ground. During the descent, the defender may also strike the opponent's face with an elbow.
Forearm Pressure Takedown with Knee Control
The defender applies direct pressure to the opponent's elbow or triceps using the forearm, forcing the opponent downward. As the opponent nears the ground, the defender pivots and drives their knee forcefully into the opponent's kidneys for additional control.
Dual Wrist Control Takedown with Striking Option
The defender grabs both of the opponent's wrists and pulls to trigger a response before securing both arms and executing a takedown. Once on the ground, the defender maintains control of the crossed arms with the option to strike the opponent's face.
Elbow Strike and Rotating Head Control Takedown
Against a second punch attempt, the defender delivers an elbow strike to the opponent's ribs before securing the opponent's head. The defender then executes a rotating takedown using the head control.
Eskrima - Empty Hand Techniques (Mano Mano)
Key Takeaways
- •Arm Break with Shoulder Lock
- •Wrist Lock with Neck Strike
- •Kick Defense with High Takedown
- •Exterior Position Wrist Grab and Shoulder Lock Takedown
Empty Hand Techniques (Mano Mano)
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about empty hand — mano mano?
This video covers arm break with shoulder lock, wrist lock with neck strike, kick defense with high takedown. It provides detailed instruction from Chinese & Filipino Martial Arts.
How long does it take to learn empty hand — mano mano?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing empty hand — mano mano?
The defender grabs both of the opponent's wrists and pulls to trigger a response before securing both arms and executing a takedown. Once on the ground, the defender maintains control of the crossed arms with the option to strike the opponent's face.




