Waki-Gatame Meaning in Judo

Waki-Gatame is an arm lock applied using the armpit for leverage. The attacker traps the arm of the defender under the side. Pulling the wrist while leaning the weight onto the elbow creates tension. This pressure forces the opponent to submit during the ground fight. One game example involves a player catching an arm during a transition. The attacker must stay low to the ground to maintain control. Proper execution requires the player to keep the shoulder of the defender. Success depends on the speed of the entry and the grip. Strategy involves using the armpit to isolate the limb before reaction. This technique provides a very secure way to apply an arm lock. Modern competition rules restrict this move during standing exchanges for safety.