Mastering the Headscissors: A Guide to Dominating Your Opponent

Photo Image: Wrestling Nouns: Wrestling, Headscissors
15 min read

The headscissors move is a popular technique in combat sports that has been used for centuries. It is a versatile move that can be used to gain control over an opponent and even submit them. In this article, we will explore the history of the headscissors move, its variations, and how to properly execute it. We will also discuss the benefits of using the headscissors in combat sports and provide tips for improving your technique. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fighter, incorporating the headscissors move into your fighting style can be a valuable asset.

Key Takeaways

  • The Headscissors Move is a grappling technique used in combat sports to control and submit opponents.
  • The Headscissors has a long history in wrestling and martial arts, dating back to ancient Greece and Japan.
  • Benefits of using the Headscissors include improved control, increased leverage, and the ability to transition to other techniques.
  • Proper execution of the Headscissors requires proper positioning, leverage, and control of the opponent’s body.
  • Common mistakes to avoid when attempting the Headscissors include improper positioning, lack of control, and not transitioning to other techniques.

What is the Headscissors Move?

The headscissors move, also known as a scissor lock or triangle choke, involves using your legs to trap your opponent’s head and neck between them. This move can be executed from various positions, such as standing, on the ground, or even from the back. The goal of the headscissors move is to apply pressure to your opponent’s neck and cut off their blood flow or air supply, leading to a submission.

There are different variations of the headscissors move, each with its own unique set of techniques and applications. The most common variation is the triangle choke, where you wrap your legs around your opponent’s neck and arm to create a triangle shape. Another variation is the reverse headscissors, where you trap your opponent’s head between your legs while facing away from them. These variations can be used in different situations and can be modified based on your fighting style and preferences.

The History of the Headscissors in Wrestling and Martial Arts

The headscissors move has a long history in wrestling and martial arts. It is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, where it was known as “skordalia.” In ancient Greek wrestling, skordalia was used as a submission hold to immobilize opponents and force them to surrender. Over time, the headscissors move spread to other cultures and combat sports, including catch wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and mixed martial arts.

In catch wrestling, a form of submission grappling that originated in the late 19th century, the headscissors move was commonly used to control opponents and set up submissions. Catch wrestlers would often use the headscissors move to transition into other holds, such as the armbar or the guillotine choke. This versatility made the headscissors move a valuable tool in catch wrestling.

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the headscissors move is known as the triangle choke and is one of the most effective submissions in the sport. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners have developed various techniques and strategies for executing the triangle choke from different positions, such as the guard or the mount. The triangle choke has become a staple submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions and is often used by fighters at all levels.

The Benefits of Using the Headscissors in Combat Sports

The headscissors move offers several benefits for fighters in combat sports. First and foremost, it is a highly effective submission hold that can quickly end a fight. By cutting off your opponent’s blood flow or air supply, you can force them to tap out or render them unconscious. This makes the headscissors move a valuable tool for both self-defense and competition.

In addition to its submission potential, the headscissors move also allows you to gain control over your opponent. By trapping their head and neck between your legs, you can limit their mobility and restrict their options. This can give you an advantage in terms of positioning and allow you to set up other attacks or transitions. The headscissors move can be particularly effective against opponents who are larger or stronger than you, as it neutralizes their size and strength advantage.

Furthermore, the headscissors move can be used as a defensive technique. If your opponent is attempting to take you down or control you, you can use the headscissors move to counter their attacks and regain control. By wrapping your legs around their head and neck, you can create a barrier that is difficult for them to overcome. This can buy you time to escape or set up your own attacks.

How to Properly Execute the Headscissors Move

To properly execute the headscissors move, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Start in a position where you have control over your opponent’s upper body, such as the guard or the mount.
2. Secure a grip on your opponent’s head and neck, either by grabbing their collar or by cupping their chin with your hand.
3. Bring one leg across your opponent’s neck and under their arm, creating a triangle shape with your legs.
4. Lock your ankles together and squeeze your thighs together, applying pressure to your opponent’s neck.
5. Use your arms and upper body to control your opponent’s posture and prevent them from escaping.
6. Adjust the angle of your body and legs as needed to increase the pressure on your opponent’s neck.
7. Maintain control of the headscissors position until your opponent taps out or until you are ready to transition into another attack.

For beginners, it is important to practice the headscissors move slowly and with control. Focus on maintaining proper technique and gradually increase the intensity as you become more comfortable with the move. It is also helpful to drill the headscissors move with a partner who can provide feedback and help you improve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Attempting the Headscissors

When attempting the headscissors move, beginners often make some common mistakes. These mistakes can compromise the effectiveness of the move and leave you vulnerable to counterattacks. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Lack of control: One of the most common mistakes is failing to establish and maintain control over your opponent’s upper body. Without control, your opponent can easily escape or counter your headscissors move. Make sure to secure a grip on their head and neck and use your arms and upper body to control their posture.

2. Loose legs: Another common mistake is having loose legs when executing the headscissors move. Your legs should be tight and locked together, creating a solid barrier around your opponent’s neck. Loose legs can allow your opponent to escape or create space, reducing the effectiveness of the move.

3. Incorrect angle: The angle of your body and legs is crucial when executing the headscissors move. If your angle is off, you may not be able to apply enough pressure to your opponent’s neck. Experiment with different angles and adjust as needed to find the most effective position.

To avoid these mistakes, focus on maintaining control, keeping your legs tight, and finding the correct angle. Practice the headscissors move with a partner who can provide feedback and help you correct any errors in your technique.

Tips for Improving Your Headscissors Technique

To improve your headscissors technique, consider these advanced tips:

1. Develop flexibility: Flexibility is key when executing the headscissors move. Work on improving your hip mobility and leg flexibility through stretching exercises and drills. This will allow you to create a tighter triangle with your legs and apply more pressure to your opponent’s neck.

2. Strengthen your core: A strong core is essential for maintaining control and generating power in the headscissors move. Incorporate core strengthening exercises, such as planks and Russian twists, into your training routine to improve your stability and control.

3. Practice transitions: The headscissors move can be used as a transition into other attacks or positions. Practice transitioning from the headscissors to other submissions, such as the armbar or the omoplata, to expand your arsenal of attacks. This will make your headscissors more unpredictable and difficult to defend against.

4. Study and learn from experts: Watch videos and study the techniques of experienced fighters who are known for their headscissors. Pay attention to their positioning, timing, and setups. Try to incorporate their strategies and techniques into your own training.

By incorporating these tips into your training routine, you can improve your headscissors technique and make the move more effective and efficient.

Advanced Headscissors Variations for Experienced Fighters

For experienced fighters, there are several advanced variations of the headscissors move that can be incorporated into their fighting style. These variations offer different options and strategies for executing the headscissors and can catch opponents off guard. Here are a few examples:

1. Flying headscissors: The flying headscissors is a high-risk, high-reward variation of the move that involves jumping or diving onto your opponent’s neck from a standing position. This variation requires excellent timing and coordination but can be a devastating surprise attack if executed correctly.

2. Rolling headscissors: The rolling headscissors is a dynamic variation that involves rolling or flipping your body while maintaining the headscissors position. This variation can be used to transition into other attacks or to escape from a bad position. It requires agility and flexibility but can be highly effective when executed with precision.

3. Standing headscissors: The standing headscissors is a variation that involves trapping your opponent’s head between your legs while standing. This variation can be used to control your opponent’s movement and set up takedowns or throws. It requires good balance and timing but can be a powerful tool in stand-up fighting.

These advanced variations should only be attempted by experienced fighters who have a solid understanding of the basic headscissors technique. Practice these variations under the guidance of a qualified instructor and gradually increase the intensity as you become more comfortable with them.

How to Use the Headscissors to Control and Submit Your Opponent

To use the headscissors move to control and submit your opponent, follow these strategies and techniques:

1. Establish control: Before attempting the headscissors move, establish control over your opponent’s upper body. This can be done by securing a grip on their head and neck or by using your arms and upper body to control their posture. Without control, it will be difficult to execute the headscissors move effectively.

2. Create a tight triangle: When executing the headscissors move, focus on creating a tight triangle with your legs. This will allow you to apply maximum pressure to your opponent’s neck and increase the likelihood of a submission. Keep your legs locked together and squeeze your thighs together to maintain a tight grip.

3. Adjust the angle: The angle of your body and legs is crucial when applying the headscissors move. Experiment with different angles and adjust as needed to find the most effective position. A slight adjustment in angle can significantly increase the pressure on your opponent’s neck and make it more difficult for them to escape.

4. Use your arms and upper body: While your legs are doing most of the work in the headscissors move, it is important to use your arms and upper body to maintain control and prevent your opponent from escaping. Use your arms to control their posture, prevent them from posturing up, and create space.

5. Be patient: The headscissors move can take time to fully apply its effects. Be patient and maintain control over your opponent while applying steady pressure. It may take several seconds for your opponent to feel the effects of the submission, so avoid rushing or panicking.

6. Look for opportunities to transition: The headscissors move can be used as a transition into other attacks or positions. Look for opportunities to transition to other submissions, such as the armbar or the guillotine choke, as your opponent tries to escape. This will keep your opponent guessing and increase your chances of securing a submission.

By following these strategies and techniques, you can effectively use the headscissors move to control and submit your opponent in combat sports.

Defending Against the Headscissors: Strategies and Techniques

When facing an opponent who is attempting the headscissors move, there are several strategies and techniques you can use to defend against it. Here are a few examples:

1. Maintain posture: One of the most effective ways to defend against the headscissors move is to maintain good posture and prevent your opponent from establishing control over your upper body. Keep your head up, back straight, and arms in a defensive position to make it difficult for your opponent to trap your head.

2. Create space: If your opponent has already trapped your head in a headscissors position, focus on creating space and relieving the pressure. Use your arms and upper body to push against your opponent’s legs and create enough space to breathe. This will buy you time to escape or counterattack.

3. Counterattack: While trapped in a headscissors position, look for opportunities to counterattack. If your opponent’s legs are loose or their angle is off, you may be able to escape or transition into a submission of your own. Look for openings and be ready to capitalize on them.

4. Defend against transitions: If your opponent is attempting to transition from the headscissors position into another attack or submission, be prepared to defend against it. Maintain good posture, keep your limbs close to your body, and be ready to counter their movements.

5. Stay calm: It is important to stay calm and composed when defending against the headscissors move. Panicking or struggling too much can make it easier for your opponent to apply the submission. Focus on maintaining good technique, creating space, and looking for opportunities to escape or counterattack.

By implementing these strategies and techniques, you can effectively defend against the headscissors move and minimize its effectiveness.

Incorporating the Headscissors into Your Overall Fighting Style

To incorporate the headscissors move into your overall fighting style, consider the following tips:

1. Train regularly: Like any other technique, the headscissors move requires regular training and practice to become proficient. Dedicate time in your training routine specifically for practicing the headscissors move and drilling its variations. This will help you develop muscle memory and improve your technique.

2. Study and learn from experts: Watch videos and study the techniques of experienced fighters who are known for their headscissors. Pay attention to their setups, transitions, and strategies. Try to incorporate their techniques into your own training and adapt them to fit your fighting style.

3. Experiment and adapt: The headscissors move is a versatile technique that can be adapted to fit different situations and styles. Experiment with different setups, angles, and variations to find what works best for you. Adapt the headscissors move to fit your strengths and preferences.

4. Combine with other techniques: The headscissors move can be used in combination with other techniques to create effective combinations and sequences. Experiment with combining the headscissors move with strikes, takedowns, or other submissions to surprise your opponents and keep them guessing.

5. Spar with different partners: Spar with different partners to improve your skills and adaptability. Each partner will have their own unique style and strengths, allowing you to learn different techniques and strategies. By sparring with a variety of partners, you will also become more comfortable facing different types of opponents, which will ultimately make you a more well-rounded fighter. Additionally, sparring with different partners will challenge you to think on your feet and adjust your approach in real-time, helping you to develop your problem-solving skills in the ring.

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FAQs

What is a headscissors?

A headscissors is a grappling technique used in various combat sports, including wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and mixed martial arts. It involves wrapping one’s legs around an opponent’s neck and applying pressure to the neck and/or throat.

Is a headscissors a legal move in combat sports?

Yes, a headscissors is a legal move in most combat sports that allow grappling techniques. However, the rules and regulations may vary depending on the sport and organization.

What are the different types of headscissors?

There are several variations of headscissors, including the classic headscissors, reverse headscissors, figure-four headscissors, and triangle headscissors. Each variation involves different leg positioning and pressure points.

What are the benefits of using a headscissors in combat sports?

A headscissors can be an effective submission hold, as it can cut off an opponent’s air supply and cause them to tap out. It can also be used to control an opponent’s movement and position, making it a useful technique in grappling and ground fighting.

What are the risks of using a headscissors in combat sports?

Applying a headscissors too forcefully or for too long can cause serious injury or even death. It is important to use proper technique and to release the hold immediately if an opponent taps out or shows signs of distress.

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