Turns out we were kicked out of our usual dojo floor due to some festival dance practice, fair enough, so we had to train in some gym with floor mats spread out. Sensei decided that since we have the soft floor, might as well do some grappling self defense.
Fun.
Basically the idea was to try and wrestle your opponent into submission without excessive violence - ie. punch to the head or the nuts. Basic techniques include head lock, arm bar, wrist lock and chocking etc.
Quick re-cap on anatomy:
On the right is some dude's head(pic from Wiki), and the biggest red line indicates the common carotid arteries supplying most of the blood flow to the head. Done properly you can take someone out in 15 seconds.
One thing I did find out was if you bend your wrist or elbow the wrong way around, it hurts.
So there you have four guys dressed in white kimono-ish uniform on the floor attempting to immobilize each other by using bodyweight. Pretty fun sight, should've brought a camera.
Statistics show 80% of street fights / bar brawls end up on the ground within 120 seconds, so here are some facts I'd like to share with you all:
- Do not attempt to throw your opponent off your back by turning to face the ground and rolling unless you're twice his size, it'd be your worst, mistake, ever.
- During the attempt to shove him onto the ground, make sure you protect your neck. It's a huge disappointment to find his arm under your chin chocking you to death when you finally get him on the ground. And you thought you were winning, hah!
- Headlocks are good, but if your opponent ceases to twitch or move after 15 seconds it may be wise to let go, he should be about a quarter way to the other side.
- When he taps and gives up, verify that by strangling him for a further 5 seconds to make sure he won't jump back at you as soon as you let go
- Tickling is allowed if proven effective, be warned
- Don't be afraid to hug, your body weight is your best friend
Concluding remarks from my partner of the evening: "...... oxygen is good."
Best, karate, session.
p.s we're not violent people, just curious.
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"It's a tragedy. It's a comedy."
-Rip van Winkle
