kesagatame

Kesagatame, often written as kesa-gatame, is a pinning technique used in judo and other grappling arts. The name comes from Japanese kesa meaning “scarf” and gatame meaning “pin” or “hold,” describing the scarf-like grip around the opponent’s head.

Technique and positioning: The practitioner typically arrives at the side of the opponent, wrapping one arm around the head and neck in a scarf-like grip while the other arm controls the opponent’s far arm or torso. The hips are lowered to apply chest-to-chest pressure, and the legs are positioned to prevent the opponent from turning or bridging free. The hold is maintained with steady control until the referee determines the opponent is firmly pinned on their back, at which point the match can be scored or the opponent may submit.

Variations and usage: Variants of kesagatame depend on grip and entry, but all share the core idea of a diagonal, scarf-like control that secures the head and upper body. In judo, it is one of the standard osaekomi-waza (pinning techniques) and is also used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling disciplines, often with slight adaptations to grips and postures.

Safety and defense: Proper execution emphasizes control of the head and upper body while avoiding excessive neck compression. The opponent may counter by turning to the side, framing, or bridging to create space and transition to a different position.

Kesagatame is regarded as a foundational pin in many grappling curricula and remains widely taught and applied in competitive contexts.