It's a concept of connection and continuity.

Understanding how pins tie together with throws provides grapplers with a roadmap to flow from takedowns to ground control.

Reverse engineering is a powerful tool that allows you to unlock the connection between throws and pins, enhancing your overall grappling proficiency.

Judo Pins: The Thread that Binds Takedowns With Groundwork

Judo pins serve as the fundamental connection between Judo throws and ground control.

By mastering the art of pins, practitioners gain insight into the intended follow-up positions, creating a bridge from the initial takedown to the subsequent grappling phase.

This interlocked connection is not only practical but also serves as a valuable foundation for understanding the flow from standing to ground in the broader context of grappling.

Reverse Engineering

Reverse engineering becomes the key to deciphering the continuity of throws and pins.

Take, for example, Kesa-gatame (scarf hold).

By reverse engineering this ground control position, practitioners can mentally rewind the sequence and visualize the corresponding takedown that leads to landing in Kesa-gatame.

This process allows grapplers to seamlessly transition from standing to a dominant ground position.

Jigoro Kano's Vision

The roots of this connection trace back to the visionary Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo.

In developing Nage-waza (throwing techniques) and Osaekomi-waza (pinning techniques), Kano's intention was clear—to connect them harmoniously.

By understanding and embodying this intention, Jiu-jitsu practitioners inherit a holistic approach that unifies throws and pins into a fluid and coherent grappling strategy.

Visualization as a Tool

The practical application of reverse engineering lies in visualization.

By mentally playing the sequence backward, practitioners can gain a deeper understanding of the mechanics, transitions, and nuances involved in transitioning from a throw to a pin.

Visualization becomes a powerful tool for refining technique, enhancing muscle memory, and solidifying the connection between standing and ground control.

By incorporating the concept of reverse engineering of the connection between takedowns and pins, you can unlock a pathway to becoming a more complete grappler.

And remember, when you learn one technique you know one technique.
When you learn a concept you know a thousand techniques.

See you on the flipside. - Larry Keith