Introduction to Kata Gatame

Kata gatame, or head and arm choke, presents numerous variations available from multiple positions. This particular entry from mount emphasizes proper elbow positioning, which is fundamental to executing a successful submission.

Establishing Mount Position and Reading Opponent Defense

The instructor begins from a strong mounted position with toes turned inward and hips lowered to prevent escape attempts. The opponent typically maintains defensive posture with elbows tucked inside, hands protecting the neck—the defender must recognize this common defensive structure before proceeding.

Initial Arm Placement and Elbow Depth

The attacking player lifts the opponent's head while maintaining a low chest position and begins threading an arm underneath the opponent's body. The critical objective is achieving deep elbow placement rather than a shallow grip, which allows for proper control and finishing mechanics.

Raising the Opponent's Elbow Using Hip Drive

Instead of attempting to lift the arm with isolated strength, the attacker uses hip and chest pressure to roll the opponent's hand from their chest up to shoulder level. The attacking elbow is then driven upward off the mat to create a wedge against the opponent's elbow, maintaining arm elevation.

Head Position Transition to Outside Control

The attacker transitions their head from inside to outside position by rising and placing their cheek against the opponent's tricep. This positional shift applies significant shoulder pressure that typically causes the opponent to voluntarily remove their hand from defensive protection.

Securing the Choke Configuration

The attacking player uses a C-grip to push the opponent's bicep across their jaw line while dropping their head low beside their own hand rather than near the opponent's head. This setup establishes the foundational position for the finishing technique.

Dismount and Body Positioning for Finish

The attacker secures a palm-to-palm grip, then dismounts by pommeling the outside leg over the top and shifting to a sprawled position. The head remains in contact with the opponent's head while elbows stay tucked, creating the mechanical advantage necessary for a tight submission.

Alternative Entry When Opponent's Arms Are High

If the opponent's arms are positioned higher during defense, the fundamental mechanics remain unchanged. The attacker still focuses on elevating the elbow to shoulder level and clearing the arm across the opponent's center line before establishing the choke configuration.

Finishing Variations and Pressure Application

Multiple finish methods exist; the sprawling method is preferred when properly positioned. Even if the opponent's arm sits above chin level, proper body alignment and hip pressure allow the attacker to achieve a strong, controlled finish from this configuration.

Katagatame (Head and Arm Choke) from Mount - No Gi BJJ / Jiu-Jitsu

Brian Glick

Kata Gatame

2 min read·9 key moments·PT5M5S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Kata Gatame
•Establishing Mount Position and Reading Opponent Defense
•Initial Arm Placement and Elbow Depth
•Raising the Opponent's Elbow Using Hip Drive

Katagatame: the head and arm choke from the mounted position isn’t only a powerful submission. It’s also a very robust method of control from the top of the mount and leads directly into other dominant positions like the gift wrap and back control. In submission grappling or no-gi BJJ, we don’t have the benefit of collars or sleeves to grip. As a result, the mounted position can seem difficult to maintain - especially when working with someone much larger or stronger. That’s why in this entry into katagatame, we focus on the importance of elbow position, a key factor in determining whether or not your strangle will be successful. When you learn to emphasize the correct elbow position - and focus on it in your setup t - you’ll find that you improve your overall control and can finish your katagatame with much less effort. 🚨 INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/bzglick === Like this video? Subscribe here: https://bit.ly/subscribeBZG === PLEASE CHECK OUT ⬇️ 🚨 INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/bzglick 🚨 FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/bzglick 📹 VIDEOS @ THEDOJO.COM : https://www.thedojo.com 🥋 SHOYOROLL: https://shoyoroll.com/ 🙇🏻 BROOKLYN BJJ: https://www.brooklynbjj.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about kata gatame?

This video covers introduction to kata gatame, establishing mount position and reading opponent defense, initial arm placement and elbow depth. It provides detailed instruction from Brian Glick.

How long does it take to learn kata 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.

Step-by-Step Breakdown9 steps