When faced with a Full Nelson—a hold where an opponent locks their arms around your neck and under your arms from behind—knowing how to defend and escape effectively is crucial. Here’s a closer look at three key techniques that can help you break free from this hold.
1. Finger Peel Defense
The Finger Peel is a straightforward but effective technique for escaping the Full Nelson. The goal is to remove your opponent’s grip by targeting their fingers. To execute this, start by reaching up with both hands and grabbing one of your opponent’s fingers. Once you have a firm grip, bend the finger back forcefully. This action disrupts their hold and weakens their grip on you. After peeling off the finger, immediately redirect your hands to target their rear elbow. This transition creates a painful pressure point that can force your opponent to release the hold. Practicing this technique helps ensure a swift and efficient escape.
2. Arm Lock Technique
The Arm Lock technique builds on the Finger Peel but adds an additional element to control and neutralize your opponent. Begin by executing the Finger Peel to break their grip. Once you’ve loosened their hold, transition your focus to the arm lock. To perform this, maneuver your hand to wrap under their elbow, creating a leverage point. As you pull their arm through, apply pressure to lock their elbow joint. This move not only disrupts their balance but also inflicts significant pain, which can compel them to release the hold. Training this technique requires attention to proper positioning and control to ensure it is both effective and safe.
3. C-Step Sweep
For a more aggressive escape, the C-Step Sweep is a powerful option. This technique involves stepping out and performing a sweeping motion to unbalance your opponent. Start by taking an outward step with your outside leg, then bring your inside leg around to form a ‘C’ shape with your movement. This maneuver places you in a position to leverage your weight and your opponent’s hold. As you step, drop your weight and sweep your opponent’s legs out from under them. The sweep, combined with a sudden drop in weight, creates a strong force that can break their grip and throw them off balance. It’s essential to practice this technique carefully to ensure you can execute it effectively without injuring yourself or your training partner.
Each of these techniques offers a viable option for escaping a Full Nelson, whether you’re looking to apply pain to force a release, control the situation with an arm lock, or use a sweeping motion to unbalance your opponent. Regular practice will help you become proficient in these techniques, enhancing your ability to defend against this challenging hold.
