Martial intent
Adapt the initial hold (hon-kesa-gatame) when Uke resists or positions differently.
Maintain control with a stable base even when the traditional grip is difficult.
In short
This is a katame-waza (hold-down) that constitutes a variation of the classic hon-kesa-gatame side control.
The idea is to place one arm around Uke’s torso (under his arm), while controlling his opposite arm under your armpit.
This position works because you spread your weight over Uke’s chest and prevent him from rotating to escape.
Your posture remains low and stable, serving as an anchor to maintain control.
Video
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Source: official YouTube channel of the Kodokan Judo Institute
⚠️ This technique should be learned and practised in a club under the supervision of a qualified instructor. The explanations below do not replace supervised judo training.
Steps
- After the throw, place your right knee near Uke’s flank in side control.
- Thread your left arm around Uke’s torso (under his left arm) like a “safety belt”.
- Grab Uke’s opposite arm and lock it firmly under your right armpit.
- Extend your left leg far back to anchor your base and lower your hips.
- Spread your weight over Uke’s chest while staying low and compact.
- Bring your head close to Uke’s body.
Key points
- Maintain a low posture with hips close to the mat to maximise stability.
- The arm around the torso doesn’t squeeze but controls Uke’s movement direction.
- Controlling Uke’s arm under your armpit prevents rotational escapes.
- The extended rear leg creates a powerful anchor against escape attempts.
- Distribute body weight over Uke’s chest without raising your centre of gravity.
- Keep your head low and close to Uke’s body to prevent counters.
Recommendations
To optimise Kuzure-kesa-gatame, lower your centre of gravity by bending at the hips and widening your base with your legs.
Your right leg should be extended away from the partner to create counterbalance while your left leg remains bent near his hip to block rotation.
Press your chest against his while exhaling, increasing the surface of contact and pressure without relying purely on arm strength.
Common mistakes
Beginners often fail to spread their legs wide enough, resulting in a high, unstable posture.
They rely too much on arm strength instead of anchoring their body weight structurally, which gives Uke space to create movement and pivot out.
How to fix them
- Lower your hips toward the mat and press your chest firmly against Uke’s chest.
- Ensure your right leg is active and extended to anchor your position, forming a stable triangular structure rather than a pure strength hold.
If you're getting back into judo after a long break, rediscovering your throws takes a progressive approach. Check the guide to returning to judo after 40 to get things back on track.