DJB pathway · Hold lesson

Kuzure-kesa-gatame

Kuzure-kesa-gatame is a modified scarf hold. Tori controls Uke's near arm as in kesa-gatame but passes the head-side arm beneath Uke's far armpit instead of wrapping the head, creating a different shoulder and torso control.

HoldOsae-komi-wazaChecked 21 July 2026
Original demonstration illustration of Kuzure-kesa-gatame

Movement sequence

  1. Sit close beside Uke and trap the near arm securely against your ribs.
  2. Pass the other arm under Uke's far armpit and secure the jacket, shoulder, or mat-side position.
  3. Keep chest contact and a wide base, adjusting the hips rather than pulling Uke's neck.
  4. 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.