Ude-garami 腕緘 (Entangled Arm Lock)

Classification: Katame-waza → Kansetsu-waza (Joint Lock Techniques)
Target Joint: Elbow
Type: Bent arm lock

Description

Ude-garami is a joint lock submission technique that targets the elbow and shoulder by entangling one of uke’s arms using both of tori’s arms. The elbow is twisted and forced either inward (medial rotation) or outward (lateral rotation) depending on the position of uke’s arm. The pressure is focused on the elbow joint, and to a lesser extent, the shoulder.

How to Apply

1. From a controlling position (such as side control, mount, or kesa-gatame), isolate one of uke’s arms.

2. Thread one of your arms underneath uke’s arm and grab your own wrist.

3. Use your other hand to control uke’s wrist, creating a figure-four grip.

4. Depending on the angle of the arm, rotate:

   • Outward (Americana) – if uke’s hand is pointing up.

   • Inward (Kimura) – if uke’s hand is pointing down or behind.

5. Apply gradual pressure by rotating the arm and lifting the elbow away from uke’s body, forcing the submission.