📍 Positions

What is Kesa-Gatame in BJJ?

Pronunciation: keh-sah gah-tah-meh

Also known as: Scarf hold, Hon kesa-gatame

Quick Definition

A judo-derived side control variation with a headlock and underhook.

Full Explanation

Kesa-gatame (scarf hold) is a pinning position from judo where you sit beside your opponent, wrap their head with one arm, and control their near arm with the other. Your hip stays tight against them. It offers tremendous control and can lead to armlocks and chokes. Some BJJ players avoid it because of back-take risks, but when done correctly with proper hip positioning, it is devastating.

Examples in Context

"His kesa-gatame pressure was suffocating"

"I went for the armbar from kesa-gatame"

Origin

Judo - meaning "scarf hold"

Related Terms

Side Control

A dominant top position perpendicular to your opponent, controlling their upper body.

Judo

The Japanese martial art from which BJJ was derived, focused on throws and pins.

Pin

Holding an opponent flat on their back with dominant control.

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