The material in this book will cover basic principles, fundamental skills, common ground techniques, ground defenses, and sacrifice techniques—all of the categories that typically define the art of ground fighting. Most of the techniques in this book are shown in the context of self-defense; however, sport-oriented martial arts will often embody similar principles. In eclectic martial arts, such as Hapkido, ground fighting is never thought of as an isolated body of techniques, but rather as an integral part of a larger system embracing a broad range of standing martial skills (strikes, blocks, holds, throws, etc.). Those martial artists seeking an eclectic, comprehensive approach to self-defense, should obtain the author's 1,136-page book, Hapkido: Traditions, Philosophy, Technique.

Different approaches
There are many different approaches to ground fighting. Some martial arts are sport-oriented; others focus on self-defense and combat. There are also styles which attempt to blend both approaches. When evaluating the appropriateness of specific ground-fighting skills, it is important to consider the context in which the technique will be used. For example, many holds used in sport situations, which are very effective in that context, are not prudent in self-defense situations. Competition holds often restrain the body while leaving the hands free to strike extremely vital targets. Recognize that one good poke to the eyes can completely turn the tables. In competition, this response is not permitted, and hence not a concern.

Although strength, leverage, and body position are important in any grappling situation, some martial arts, such as Hapkido and Chinese fast-wrestling, tend to place a greater emphasis on speed, unbalancing, and returning to your feet. Ground kicks are used extensively in Korean arts, but are not much in evidence in Japanese systems. In combat and self-defense arts, strikes are usually directed to pressure points or vital targets, such as the eyes, throat, and groin. In sport arts, such as Freestyle Wrestling and Judo, these blows are prohibited. In many grappling arts, such as Judo and Jujutsu, one opponent will attempt to straddle the other, in an effort to choke, restrain, or knock them out. Generally, this tactic is less emphasized in self-defense arts, where the preference is usually to strike from a standing or kneeling posture, so that you can immediately move away to address other attackers, or abandon a situation when you are losing control. Also, rolling around on gravel or other hazardous surfaces can be far more destructive than rolling around on a padded mat.

The differences previously discussed between various grappling arts are not meant to imply that one style is superior to another, only that they are different. In fact, a grappler skilled in any comprehensive ground-fighting art is a formidable opponent. When comparing the ground techniques of different martial arts, you will find that there are a great many similarities in technique and principles, although the manner in which skills are organized and practiced may be quite different. Many masters have also trained extensively in different grappling styles, and have integrated other elements into their own systems. This strengthens a martial art, keeping it contemporary and practical.

Cross-training
Cross-training in different grappling arts can be of enormous benefit in learning a range of grappling principles, and also leads one to a deeper understanding of the strengths and limitations of their own art. Although sport competition does encourage techniques that are inherently risky when used for self-defense, it also provides you with a safe forum for becoming familiar with aggressive, violent body contact. If you expect to maintain your composure in a real fight, this type of experience is essential. For this reason, many contemporary martial arts schools combine training in both self-defense and sport-oriented martial arts. For example, Hapkido and Judo, or Jujutsu and Judo.

Types of techniques
The material presented in this book will outline typical ground-fighting techniques, and specific defenses to common ground situations. There are many different ways to organize this type of material. For example, in Judo, ground skills are usually organized into three categories: joint locks, chokes, and pins. in Korean self-defense arts, such as Hapkido, Kuk Sool Won, and Hwa Rang Do, ground skills are organized into defense systems based on body position (for instance, reclining defenses or seated defenses). In this book, ground techniques are classified using a combination of both approaches, and are organized into seven chapters:

The first three chapters summarize techniques that are applied from a broad range of ground positions. The remaining four chapters outline specific defenses employed from specific standing or ground positions. A brief description of these seven categories follows:

Chokes + head locks
Chokes and head locks are specific types of holds applied to the neck and head. They are typically used to control or restrain a person, and work in one or more of three ways: by reducing the flow of blood or air to the brain via strangulation, by applying painful pressure to nerves and pressure points, or by twisting the head to stress the cervical spine. Ground chokes can be applied from most positions, even to an opponent straddling your chest.

Pinning holds
Pinning holds are used to restrain movement by pinning an opponent to the ground, or against a wall or other obstacle. Pinning holds can consist of joint holds or chokes, or may simply involve the use of your body weight.

Ground kicks
Ground kicks are very similar to standing kicks, except they are delivered from a kneeling, seated, or reclining position. Kicks are usually directed to standing opponents; however, kneeling or reclining targets are also possible. There are two types of ground kicks: drop kicks and seated kicks. Drop kicks are executed while making a transition from standing to ground positions, often returning to standing postures at the completion of the kick. Seated kicks are executed from a kneeling, seated, or reclining position.

Seated defenses
Seated defenses are techniques employed when you are sitting on the ground and must engage a standing opponent.

Reclining defenses
Reclining defenses are techniques employed when you are reclining against standing, kneeling, or reclining opponents.

Kneeling defenses
Kneeling defenses are techniques employed when you are kneeling in a variety of positions against a reclining opponent.

Sacrifice techniques
Sacrifice techniques are strikes, holds, or throws in which you will drop to the ground as you execute the technique. In most cases, the technique is a hold or throw that also forces your opponent to the ground. The force of your dropping body-weight is often an essential ingredient powering these techniques.

Responsible use of force
Martial techniques such as ground-fighting skills should only be used for self-defense, the protection of others, physical exercise, or in organized sport competition between consenting individuals. The use of force to resolve a situation carries with it a social and moral responsibility to apply force inan appropriate and sensible manner. When we attempt to control another person by striking, holding, or throwing, our expertise in martial arts and our knowledge of the human body allows us not only to attack with increased efficiency, but with greater compassion. By manipulating the body's weak points and using skillful, efficient techniques, it becomes possible to immobilize or restrain an attacker without causing serious or permanent injury. Our degree of skill directly influences our ability to do this safely, without endangering ourselves. To seriously injure or kill someone is not very difficult. It requires no special knowledge, and often occurs unintentionally. For the skilled martial artist, the excessive use of force is an inexcusable and morally reprehensible act, deserving condemnation.

FromChapter 2: Fundamentals

Transitional movement
The following transitional movements are used to switch between standing and ground positions. This may become necessary, or even desirable, for the reasons listed at the beginning of the Ground Movement section. The movements shown may be executed separately or combined into a continuous sequence. Practical applications linking movement with specific strikes, holds, and throws are shown in chapters covering the various aspects of ground fighting.

Entering a ground position
The following movement techniques are used to enter a Seated Guard or a kneeling stance from a standing posture. They are typically called sit-out or ground-entry techniques, and are usually used in conjunction with falls and sacrifice techniques involving kicks and throws. Common methods follow.

1–3 Sit-out entry
There are three methods of executing a sit-out to a Seated Guard: two-foot entry, extended-leg entry, and bent-leg entry. They are the same entries used to execute a Back Shoulder Roll and were previously discussed.

4. Back shoulder roll entry
This entry is used to move backward while entering a ground position, often while being pushed or tripped. Back shoulder rolls may be executed using any of the three entry methods listed in the previous paragraph.

5–6 Forward shoulder roll entry
When you wish to move forward while making a transition to the ground, execute a shoulder roll into a kneeling stance or Seated Guard.

7–8 One-hand and two-hand drop entry
These methods are used when you wish to drop straight down, often in preparation for ground kicking. The one-hand method is used when you wish to keep a hand free for blocking or grabbing. The two-hand method provides better support and is often linked to twin kicks, leg traps, scissor throws, or other double-leg techniques.

Recovering a standing position
The following movements are used to enter a standing posture from a seated, kneeling, or fall position. They are called recovery techniques and are usually used to regain a standing position after falling or being thrown. Speed, timing, and economy of movement are crucial, since you may be under constant attack. Common methods are as follows:

9. Forward shoulder roll recovery
This movement is used to move forward while changing from kneeling to standing postures, or to move off an opponent you are straddling on the ground. The body can be shifted as you rise, to face any direction.

10. Back shoulder roll recovery
This movement is used to move backward while changing from a seated or kneeling position to standing. It is used to create distance, avoid an attack, or initiate a retreat.

11. Side roll recovery
This movement is used to move laterally while changing from a kneeling or seated guard to a standing posture. The technique often incorporates a Back Kick to create space by driving the opponent backwards. Use the kick delivery to assist rising to a standing position as you push off with both hands.

12. Figure-4 recovery
This movement is used to change from a Seated Guard to a standing posture. It is basically the last part of a forward shoulder roll. However, since you begin from a stationary position, it is necessary to first generate forward momentum before attempting to rise, or you will fall backward. To execute, generate momentum by drawing the upper body forward (into a tuck) as you pull the legs down, folding one leg under the other. Drive forward (leading with one hand) as you press off with your bent leg, allowing your forward momentum to carry you to a standing position. Do not rise too soon, as your balance can be easily upset by an unexpected push. You may also generate momentum by rocking backward then forward, although this takes more time, which creates greater risk.

13. Two-knee recovery
This movement is used to change from a Two Knee Stance to a standing posture. Shift your weight back to the balls of both feet, which are placed under the buttocks. Rise straight upward by extending the legs.

14. One-knee recovery
This movement is used to change from a One Knee Stance to a standing posture. Shift your weight forward to the raised knee. Rise straight upward. The majority of your weight should be placed over the front leg, so that the unweighted rear leg is free to block or kick if required.

15. Roll-up recovery
This movement is used to change from a Seated Guard to a standing posture. It is basically the end of a forward roll. Generate momentum by rocking backward then forward. With legs fully bent, pull both feet to your buttocks, keeping them slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Whip the upper body and arms forward, drawing the chest to the knees, as you roll up onto both feet. If you find yourself falling backwards, you have probably placed your feet too close together, failed to generate sufficient momentum, or are not tightly tucked. Learning a roll-up recovery is a precursor to learning a kip-up, since both use a similar whipping motion.

16. Kip-up recovery
This movement is used to change from any reclining position to a standing posture (e.g., recovering from a Back Fall). A kip-up requires good flexibility, speed, and some aptitude for gymnastics. Although not difficult to learn, it requires good flexibility, supple joints, and a healthy back and knees. To execute, rock back onto the upper back, with your head tucked and both hands planted near the shoulders. Rapidly whip your legs forward, pulling them under the buttocks as you arch your back. Push off with both hands, whipping the arms and shoulders forward, drawing the chest to your knees, as you land on both feet. Kip-ups can also be executed without planting the hands if you develop adequate body motion.

17. Two-hand recovery (extended-leg)
This technique is used to regain a standing position after taking an extended-leg side fall. To execute, support yourself with both hands as you bring the extended leg back to the rear. Do not move the other leg, as it is already properly positioned. Transfer your weight to both feet, bringing the hands up to a guard position for protection, as you stand up.

18. One-hand recovery (extended-leg)
This is the same as the previous technique, except one hand supports the body, while the other hand remains in a guard position. This method provides better protection, since one hand is available for blocking or grabbing (particularly important if an opponent is at close range). Individuals with poor balance or weak arms may feel more comfortable using the two-hand method.

19. Two-hand recovery (bent-leg)
This technique is used to regain a standing position after taking a bent-leg side fall. It is similar to #17, except the bent-leg is brought to the rear before standing.

20. One-hand recovery (bent-leg)
This is the same as the previous technique, except one hand supports body, while the other remains in a guard position. It has the same advantages and limitations as #18.