Sankaku-Gatame Meaning in Judo

Sankaku-Gatame is a triangle pinning hold performed with the legs on the ground. The attacker wraps the legs around the neck and one arm. This creates a tight triangle shape that secures the upper body firmly. The player then holds the defender flat on the mat for time. One game example involves a player winning after holding this pin securely. This hold is very difficult to escape because it traps the shoulder. The attacker must squeeze the knees together to maintain the pinning pressure. Proper execution requires the player to pull the trapped arm across the body. Success depends on the ability to lock the feet behind the knee. Strategy involves using this pin after a failed attempt at a choke. This technique provides a very high level of control on the mat.