DJB pathway · Hold lesson
Kesa-gatame
Kesa-gatame is the standard scarf hold. Tori controls Uke's head and near arm from the side, applies chest and rib pressure across the upper body, and maintains a broad base that can follow bridges and turns.
Movement sequence
- Settle beside Uke with your hip tight to the near shoulder and your body facing toward the head.
- Wrap the head and secure the near arm against your side without compressing the face.
- Keep the legs spread and mobile so your weight can follow Uke while both shoulders remain controlled.
- Keep the pressure responsive rather than rigid, protect Uke's face and breathing, and release when Mate is called.
Safety and training context
Use this page to prepare for coached practice, not as a substitute for instruction. Throws, locks, and strangles require appropriate experience, a qualified partner, safe matting, and direct supervision.