June 18, 2001. Here are some photos of one of our defenses from a double-hand wrist-grab from behind. This particular technique is taught at the green belt level; although there are variations taught to other ranks. Note that, in this instance, the wrists are held at roughly a 45-degree angle. The uke (attacker) is Mike Stephenson (white top). The nage (defender) is Sensei John Foster. Please remember: The following is presented for informational and entertainment purposes only. These techniques should only be practised under the supervision of a qualified instructor. You can click the smaller images to view larger ones. Please use the "back" button of your browser to return.

Instructor Mike Stephenson (in white top) grabs Sensei John Foster's wrists from behind at approximately a 45-degree angle. John keeps his hands open (a) to maintain blood cirulation and (b) because a clenched fist would signal that he wants to fight.

The response to this technique is neutral -- ie John may step to either side. John slides backward into a back stance (60-70% of weight on rear leg). Note that he drops his weight by bending his knees, not by bending over. Lowering his bodyweight puts pressure on Mike's thumbs, the weakest part of the grip. (Sliding is important -- if John takes large steps, he will be off-balance.)

Lowering his body-weight and sliding diagonally backwards causes Mike's grip to loosen at the thumbs. John grabs at the inside (in this case, his left on Mike's right): (a) John's thumb is planted firmly into the webbing between Mike's thumb and fingers and (b) John's fingers wrap around the blade of Mike's hand.

John turns Mike's hand to the outside (Mike's palm is roughly parallel to the floor) and pulls it close to his thigh, about where the bottom of his pocket would be. Notice that Mike is in pain, off-balance, and tapping.

With his free (outside) hand, John clasps the crook of Mike's elbow and hugs it close to his own sternim. At the same time, he continues to turn Mike's hand to the outside. Again, Mike's palm (still facing down) is roughly parallel to the floor. The turning motion is similar to unscrewing the lid of a jar.John has chosen to finish this defense with a pain-and-control technique. Alternatively, he could lunge forward and down with the inside leg and drive Mikes head to the ground.

John has chosen to finish this defense with a pain-and-control technique. Alternatively, he could lunge forward and down with the inside leg, while straightening and lowering his own arms, and drive Mike's head to the ground.

Photos on this page courtesy of Gordon W.E. Nore © 1999 - 2007