Agarres

Agarres refers to a variety of gripping techniques used in combat sports and martial arts. The term is Spanish for "grabs" or "grips." These techniques are fundamental for controlling an opponent, executing throws, applying joint locks, or maintaining a dominant position. The specific types of agarres vary greatly depending on the discipline, but common elements include controlling limbs, the torso, or even the head.

In grappling arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, judo, and wrestling, agarres are crucial for establishing leverage and initiating takedowns or submissions. Examples include collar grips, sleeve grips, wrist grips, and body locks. These grips allow practitioners to break an opponent's balance, prevent them from escaping, or set up more advanced techniques. The strength and precision of these grips can significantly influence the outcome of a match.

In striking arts such as boxing or Muay Thai, agarres are often used defensively or to set up strikes. Clinch fighting in Muay Thai, for example, involves extensive use of body and head agarres to control an opponent and deliver knee or elbow strikes. In boxing, clinching is primarily a defensive tactic to stop an opponent's offense and reset the fight. The effectiveness of agarres is influenced by factors such as hand strength, technique, and an understanding of leverage.