What Is A Full Nelson? Definition, Techniques, and More

What Is A Full Nelson? At WHAT.EDU.VN, we break down this wrestling hold and its variations, offering insights into its application and potential dangers. If you’re curious about grappling techniques or seeking clarification on specific holds, explore our platform for free, accurate information. Wrestling moves, submission holds, and grappling arts explained simply.

1. Understanding the Full Nelson Hold: An Overview

The full nelson is a grappling hold primarily used in wrestling. It is characterized by placing both arms under the opponent’s armpits and applying pressure to the back of the neck. This hold can be executed from various positions and has different levels of effectiveness and risk. Let’s delve into the details:

1.1. What is a Full Nelson in Wrestling?

A full nelson involves positioning both arms under the opponent’s armpits and applying pressure to the back of their neck. The hands are typically clasped behind the opponent’s head to maximize the pressure. The goal is to control the opponent and potentially force a submission.

1.2. Basic Mechanics of the Full Nelson

Positioning: The attacker starts behind the opponent.
Arm Placement: Each arm is threaded under the opponent’s armpit, reaching up to the back of the neck.
Hand Clasp: The hands are clasped together behind the opponent’s head.
Pressure: The attacker applies pressure by pulling up on the opponent’s neck and forcing their head downwards.

1.3. Is the Full Nelson Dangerous?

When applied improperly or with excessive force, the full nelson can be dangerous. Potential risks include:

Neck Injuries: Excessive pressure can lead to strains, sprains, or more severe injuries to the cervical spine.
Restricted Breathing: The hold can restrict the opponent’s ability to breathe if applied too tightly.
Discomfort and Pain: Even when applied correctly, the full nelson can cause significant discomfort and pain.

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2. Different Types of Nelson Holds

While the full nelson is the most well-known, there are variations of the hold, each with its own level of control and risk.

2.1. Half Nelson

The half nelson involves using only one arm to apply pressure to the back of the opponent’s neck. It is typically easier to execute than a full nelson but offers less control.

Execution: The attacker places one arm under the opponent’s armpit, hooking their hand behind the opponent’s neck.
Control: The other arm is used for additional control or to secure other parts of the opponent’s body.
Effectiveness: The half nelson is often used as a setup for other moves or to gain a positional advantage.

2.2. Three-Quarter Nelson

A three-quarter nelson is a hybrid of the half and full nelson. It involves using one arm to apply a half nelson while the other arm controls the opponent’s body.

Execution: One arm is placed under the opponent’s armpit and behind the neck (half nelson), while the other arm can be used to control a leg or arm.
Control: This variation offers more control than a half nelson but less than a full nelson.
Application: It is often used in wrestling to transition between holds or to maintain control while maneuvering.

2.3. Quarter Nelson

The quarter nelson is a less common variation that involves applying pressure to the neck with one arm but without the arm being fully under the armpit.

Execution: The attacker uses one arm to apply pressure to the side or back of the opponent’s neck.
Control: This hold offers the least amount of control among the nelson variations.
Use: It is generally used as a transitional hold or to create an opening for other techniques.

Alt text: A wrestler demonstrates the half nelson technique, showcasing arm placement and body positioning for effective control.

3. Legal and Safety Considerations

The legality and safety of the full nelson vary depending on the rules of the specific wrestling organization or competition. It is crucial to understand these rules to avoid penalties and ensure the safety of all participants.

3.1. Is the Full Nelson Legal in Wrestling?

In many wrestling organizations, the full nelson is legal, but there are often restrictions on how it can be applied.

High School Wrestling: The full nelson may be restricted or illegal due to the increased risk of neck injuries among younger athletes.
Collegiate Wrestling: The full nelson is generally legal, but referees closely monitor the hold to ensure it is not applied in a dangerous manner.
Professional Wrestling: The full nelson is often used, but the performers are highly trained to execute and receive the hold safely.
Amateur Wrestling: Regulations vary, so it is essential to check the specific rules of the governing body.

3.2. Safety Tips for Executing and Defending the Full Nelson

Proper Training: Always learn the technique from a qualified instructor.
Controlled Application: Apply the hold gradually and with control, avoiding excessive force.
Awareness: Be aware of the opponent’s reaction and release the hold if they indicate discomfort or pain.
Neck Strengthening: Strengthen the neck muscles to reduce the risk of injury.
Defensive Techniques: Learn how to defend against the full nelson to minimize the risk of being controlled or injured.

3.3. Ethical Considerations

Even when legal, it is essential to consider the ethical implications of using the full nelson.

Respect for Opponent: Always prioritize the safety and well-being of your opponent.
Fair Play: Avoid using the full nelson in a manner that is intended to cause harm or gain an unfair advantage.
Consent: Ensure that both participants are aware of the risks and consent to the use of the hold.

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4. The Full Nelson in Different Grappling Arts

The full nelson is not limited to wrestling; it appears in various forms in other grappling arts, each with its own nuances and applications.

4.1. Full Nelson in Judo

In Judo, while not a primary technique, the principles of controlling the opponent’s head and neck are utilized in various pinning and submission techniques.

Application: Judo focuses more on throws and joint locks, but controlling the head and neck is crucial for maintaining dominant positions.
Variations: Similar control can be seen in Kuzure-kesa-gatame (modified scarf hold) or Kami-shiho-gatame (upper four-quarter hold).
Emphasis: The emphasis is on using the control to set up other techniques rather than relying solely on the neck hold for submission.

4.2. Full Nelson in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes ground fighting and submissions. While the full nelson is not a common submission hold in BJJ, it can be used as a control tactic or a setup for other moves.

Control: The full nelson can be used to control the opponent’s posture and prevent them from escaping or attacking.
Transition: It can serve as a transition to more effective submission holds like rear-naked chokes or armlocks.
Variations: Some BJJ practitioners use variations of the full nelson to apply pressure and create openings for other techniques.

4.3. Full Nelson in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

In Mixed Martial Arts, the full nelson can be a risky move due to the potential for strikes and the dynamic nature of the fight.

Risk vs. Reward: While it can control the opponent, it also leaves the attacker vulnerable to strikes from the opponent or reversals.
Application: The full nelson is more commonly used as a control position to set up strikes or takedowns rather than as a primary submission.
Adaptation: MMA fighters often adapt the hold to incorporate elements of striking or to transition to more secure positions.

Alt text: A wrestler executes a full nelson takedown, demonstrating the leverage and body mechanics required to bring an opponent down to the mat.

5. Benefits and Drawbacks of Using the Full Nelson

The full nelson has both advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to understand when and how to use it effectively.

5.1. Advantages of the Full Nelson

Control: The full nelson provides a high degree of control over the opponent’s head and neck, limiting their movement.
Positional Advantage: It can be used to gain a dominant position, allowing the attacker to dictate the pace of the match.
Setup for Other Moves: The full nelson can create opportunities for takedowns, pins, or other submission holds.
Psychological Impact: The pressure and discomfort of the hold can have a psychological impact on the opponent, making them more likely to make mistakes.

5.2. Drawbacks of the Full Nelson

Risk of Injury: Improper application can lead to neck injuries for both the attacker and the defender.
Vulnerability: The attacker can be vulnerable to reversals or strikes while applying the hold.
Difficulty in Application: The full nelson can be challenging to execute against a skilled opponent who knows how to defend against it.
Limited Effectiveness: In some grappling arts, the full nelson may not be as effective as other submission holds.

5.3. When to Use the Full Nelson

Wrestling: Use it to control the opponent, set up takedowns, or secure a pin.
Judo: Employ the principles of head and neck control to maintain dominant positions.
BJJ: Use it as a control tactic or a transition to more effective submission holds.
MMA: Consider it as a control position to set up strikes or takedowns, but be mindful of the risks.

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6. Defending Against the Full Nelson

Knowing how to defend against the full nelson is crucial to avoid being controlled or injured. Here are several effective defensive techniques:

6.1. Basic Defense Techniques

Head Posture: Maintain good head posture to prevent the attacker from gaining control of your neck.
Arm Placement: Use your arms to block the attacker’s arms from getting under your armpits.
Hip Movement: Use hip movement to create space and disrupt the attacker’s balance.
Sprawling: Sprawl out to prevent the attacker from getting behind you and securing the hold.

6.2. Advanced Defense Techniques

Hand Fighting: Engage in hand fighting to control the attacker’s arms and prevent them from securing the full nelson.
Elbow Escape: Use an elbow escape to create space and break the attacker’s grip.
Rolling: Roll to reverse the position and gain a dominant position over the attacker.
Counter Holds: Use counter holds to attack the attacker’s arms or neck and force them to release the full nelson.

6.3. Preventing the Full Nelson

Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from the opponent to prevent them from getting close enough to apply the hold.
Control the Center: Control the center of the mat to dictate the positioning and prevent the opponent from maneuvering behind you.
Good Stance: Maintain a good, balanced stance to avoid being taken down or controlled.
Awareness: Be aware of the opponent’s intentions and anticipate their movements to prevent them from setting up the full nelson.

Alt text: A wrestler demonstrates escaping a full nelson hold, showcasing body movement and hand placement techniques.

7. Training Drills for Full Nelson

To improve your ability to execute and defend against the full nelson, incorporate these training drills into your practice:

7.1. Drills for Executing the Full Nelson

Partner Drill: Practice applying the full nelson on a partner, focusing on proper arm placement, hand clasp, and pressure application.
Resistance Drill: Have your partner resist the full nelson while you work to secure the hold and maintain control.
Takedown Drill: Practice setting up the full nelson from a takedown position, focusing on transitioning smoothly from the takedown to the hold.
Positional Drilling: Drill the full nelson from various positions, such as the turtle position or the back mount.

7.2. Drills for Defending Against the Full Nelson

Escape Drill: Practice escaping the full nelson by using basic and advanced defense techniques.
Reaction Drill: Have a partner apply the full nelson suddenly while you react and defend against the hold.
Sprawling Drill: Practice sprawling to prevent the opponent from getting behind you and securing the full nelson.
Hand Fighting Drill: Engage in hand fighting drills to control the opponent’s arms and prevent them from setting up the full nelson.

7.3. Conditioning Exercises

Neck Bridges: Strengthen your neck muscles to reduce the risk of injury from the full nelson.
Pull-Ups: Improve your upper body strength to better control and apply the full nelson.
Squats: Strengthen your lower body to improve your balance and stability while executing or defending against the hold.
Core Work: Strengthen your core muscles to improve your overall control and stability.

8. Historical Significance of the Full Nelson

The full nelson has a rich history in wrestling, with its origins dating back centuries. Understanding its historical significance can provide a deeper appreciation for the hold and its place in the sport.

8.1. Origins of the Full Nelson

The exact origins of the full nelson are difficult to trace, but it has been used in wrestling for centuries.

Ancient Wrestling: Similar holds were used in ancient wrestling styles, such as those practiced in Greece and Rome.
Folk Wrestling: Variations of the full nelson have been used in folk wrestling styles around the world.
Modern Wrestling: The full nelson became a staple in modern wrestling as the sport evolved and codified its rules.

8.2. Famous Use Cases

Professional Wrestling: The full nelson has been used by numerous professional wrestlers as a signature move.
Amateur Wrestling: It has been used in amateur wrestling competitions at various levels, from high school to the Olympics.
Historical Matches: The full nelson has been a decisive move in many famous wrestling matches throughout history.

8.3. Evolution of the Technique

Variations: The full nelson has evolved over time, with different variations being developed to suit different wrestling styles and strategies.
Defenses: As the full nelson became more common, wrestlers developed more effective defenses to counter the hold.
Modern Applications: Today, the full nelson continues to be used in wrestling, but it is often adapted and modified to fit the modern wrestling landscape.

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9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

To execute and defend against the full nelson effectively, it is crucial to avoid these common mistakes:

9.1. Mistakes in Execution

Improper Arm Placement: Failing to place the arms correctly under the opponent’s armpits can reduce the effectiveness of the hold.
Loose Hand Clasp: A loose hand clasp can allow the opponent to escape the hold.
Excessive Force: Applying excessive force can lead to neck injuries.
Poor Positioning: Poor positioning can make you vulnerable to reversals or strikes.

9.2. Mistakes in Defense

Poor Head Posture: Failing to maintain good head posture can make you more vulnerable to the full nelson.
Passive Defense: A passive defense can allow the opponent to secure the hold and maintain control.
Incorrect Arm Placement: Incorrect arm placement can prevent you from blocking the attacker’s arms.
Lack of Hip Movement: A lack of hip movement can make it difficult to create space and disrupt the attacker’s balance.

9.3. Training Mistakes

Lack of Proper Instruction: Learning the technique without proper instruction can lead to mistakes and injuries.
Insufficient Drilling: Insufficient drilling can prevent you from mastering the technique and applying it effectively.
Ignoring Safety Precautions: Ignoring safety precautions can increase the risk of injuries.
Over Training: Over training can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of mistakes and injuries.

Alt text: A wrestling coach demonstrates the proper execution of a full nelson hold, emphasizing correct body positioning and control techniques.

10. The Future of the Full Nelson

The full nelson continues to evolve as wrestling and grappling arts adapt to new techniques and strategies. Its future will likely involve a combination of traditional applications and modern adaptations.

10.1. Modern Adaptations

Hybrid Techniques: The full nelson may be combined with other techniques to create new hybrid moves.
MMA Applications: It may be adapted for use in MMA, with modifications to account for striking and other elements of the sport.
BJJ Integration: It may be integrated into BJJ strategies as a control tactic or a transition to other submission holds.

10.2. Rule Changes and Regulations

Safety Regulations: Rule changes and regulations may be implemented to reduce the risk of injuries associated with the full nelson.
Restrictions: Some organizations may place restrictions on the use of the full nelson, particularly in youth wrestling.
Monitoring: Referees and officials may be trained to closely monitor the application of the full nelson to ensure it is not used in a dangerous manner.

10.3. Training Innovations

New Drills: New training drills may be developed to improve the execution and defense of the full nelson.
Technology: Technology may be used to analyze the biomechanics of the full nelson and develop more effective training methods.
Virtual Reality: Virtual reality may be used to simulate wrestling scenarios and provide a safe environment for practicing the full nelson.

10.4. The Enduring Legacy

Despite the changes and adaptations, the full nelson will likely remain a part of wrestling and grappling arts for years to come.

Traditional Value: Its traditional value as a control and submission hold will continue to be appreciated.
Educational Tool: It will continue to be used as an educational tool for teaching the principles of leverage, control, and technique.
Cultural Significance: Its cultural significance as a part of wrestling history will ensure its enduring legacy.

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FAQ: Full Nelson

Question	Answer
What is the primary purpose of the full nelson hold?	The primary purpose is to control the opponent’s head and neck, limiting their movement and potentially forcing a submission.
Is the full nelson legal in all forms of wrestling?	No, the legality varies. It is often restricted or illegal in high school wrestling due to the increased risk of neck injuries, while it is generally legal in collegiate and professional wrestling, subject to monitoring.
What are the potential dangers of applying a full nelson?	Potential dangers include neck injuries, restricted breathing, and significant discomfort or pain if applied improperly or with excessive force.
How can you defend against a full nelson hold?	Defenses include maintaining good head posture, using your arms to block the attacker’s arms, using hip movement to create space, and sprawling to prevent the attacker from getting behind you. Advanced techniques include hand fighting, elbow escapes, and rolling.
What is the difference between a full and half nelson?	A full nelson involves using both arms to apply pressure to the back of the opponent’s neck, while a half nelson uses only one arm. The half nelson is easier to execute but offers less control.
Can the full nelson be used in martial arts like BJJ?	Yes, but it is not a primary submission hold. In BJJ, it can be used as a control tactic or a transition to more effective submission holds, such as rear-naked chokes or armlocks.
What are some common mistakes in executing the full nelson?	Common mistakes include improper arm placement, a loose hand clasp, applying excessive force, and poor positioning.
How do training drills help improve full nelson techniques?	Training drills help improve execution and defense by practicing proper arm placement, resistance drills, takedown drills, and positional drilling. They also help in developing reactions and preventing opponents from securing the hold.
What conditioning exercises are beneficial for wrestlers using the full nelson?	Beneficial exercises include neck bridges to strengthen neck muscles, pull-ups to improve upper body strength, squats to strengthen lower body, and core work to improve overall control and stability.
How has the full nelson evolved over time?	The full nelson has evolved with variations to suit different wrestling styles, the development of more effective defenses, and modern applications in hybrid techniques, MMA, and BJJ, while also facing potential restrictions and safety regulations.