What comes next from kesa gatame
Kesa gatame (also called scarf hold): the top player sits beside the bottom player, hip to hip, holding the head and one arm. The top player is winning. The bottom player must free the trapped arm to escape.
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Learn the position itself: Side Control in the library ›
If you are the top player
Good Works well with the right setup.
- Switch back to side control
If they start to escape, go back to side control. It is more stable.
Leads to side control › - Step over to mount
While their arm is trapped, swing your leg over their body. You get mount for 4 points.
Leads to mount › - Squeeze and rest
Hold the head and arm tight, hip to hip. Your weight alone keeps them down.
You stay in this position.
Risky Can work, but often goes wrong.
- Americana from kesa
Trap their arm with your leg and bend it over your thigh. Go slowly and let go as soon as your partner taps.
Ends the match if it works: a submission.
If you are the bottom player
Best The choice that works most often here.
- Free the trapped arm: turn in, elbow to the mat
Turn toward them and pull your trapped elbow down and in. Once the arm is free, you have an underhook.
Leads to side control, bottom underhook ›
Good Works well with the right setup.
- Bridge and roll them over
Wrap your free arm around their waist and bridge over your shoulder. You roll them and end on top.
Leads to side control › - Hip escape and hook their leg
Shrimp away (move your hips out) and swing one leg over their leg. You start to get your guard back.
Leads to open guard › - Protect your arm
Bend the trapped arm and keep your elbow close. This stops the americana.
You stay in this position.
Mistake Avoid this: it usually makes things worse.
- Push their head with both hands
Pushing their head does not help. Your trapped arm is the real problem.
Usually goes wrong. Choose a better option above.
Train it on the Path
The language of control unit turns this into short lessons: you see a position and pick the best move.
The Path goes in order: start free from lesson one and you reach The language of control on the way. With Rolla Plus you can jump straight here.