Kami-shiho-gatame 上四方固 (Upper Four-Corner Hold)
Classification: Katame-waza → Osae-komi-waza (Holding Techniques)
Kami-shiho-gatame is a classic pinning technique in judo, where tori controls uke from above the head in a stable kneeling position. The name literally means “upper four-corner hold,” referring to tori’s control over all four corners of uke’s upper torso. This technique is frequently taught as a foundational osaekomi and is the second hold demonstrated in the Katame-no-Kata.
Execution
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Tori positions themselves behind uke’s head, facing uke’s body.
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From a kneeling position, tori reaches under uke’s shoulders, gripping the sides of uke’s belt or pants for control.
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Tori keeps their hips low, toes flat, and buttocks resting on the heels, maintaining a stable and reactive posture.
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The chest remains pressed firmly against uke’s upper torso to eliminate space and limit uke’s ability to move or escape.
This posture allows tori to use gravity effectively while remaining dynamic and ready to adapt.
Escapes
Uke has several strategic options to escape this hold:
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Action-Reaction Principle (Use of force against force): Uke pushes tori in one direction, prompting tori to instinctively push back. Uke then uses this momentum to spin or roll out in the opposite direction.
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Space creation (Ebi + Arm thread): Uke performs a shrimping motion (ebi) to create space, then threads an arm underneath tori’s body. With enough leverage, uke rotates to the side and rolls to their belly to break the pin.
Tip: Control over uke’s hips and shoulders is crucial for tori. As soon as space is created or tori’s weight shifts too far forward or back, uke has an opportunity to escape.
Variations
Several effective variants of Kami-shiho-gatame exist depending on uke’s resistance and tori’s preferences:
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Flat base variation: Tori stretches the legs backward and lies flat to apply more weight directly through the chest.
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Side-lying variation: Tori threads one leg under the other and lies sideways while maintaining control on uke’s belt. This can counter bridging movements.
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Over-arm belt grip: Tori places one or both arms over uke’s arms to grip the belt from above, limiting uke’s ability to bridge or push.
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Collar grip variation: Instead of the belt, tori controls the lapels/revers and uses them to maintain downward pressure and pinning stability.