What is full nelson?

The Full Nelson is a grappling hold commonly used in wrestling and certain martial arts. It involves a wrestler standing behind their opponent and reaching under the opponent’s arms with both hands. The aggressor then interlocks their fingers behind the opponent's neck or head. This hold is effective for controlling an opponent, limiting their ability to move or counterattack.

Key Points:

  • Application: The Full Nelson is applied by standing behind the opponent, inserting both arms under the opponent's armpits, and then clasping hands or interlocking fingers behind the opponent's head or neck.

  • Uses: It's primarily used in amateur wrestling as a controlling maneuver. In professional wrestling, it's sometimes utilized as a submission move, though it's often dramatized to amplify its perceived effectiveness.

  • Rules and Legality: In many forms of amateur wrestling, applying the Full Nelson is restricted because of the potential for injury to the neck and spine. Modified or partial versions of the hold, like the Half Nelson, are more commonly used in these settings.

  • Countermeasures: Properly defending against a Full Nelson involves breaking the grip while maintaining a strong posture. Techniques include using the arms to block the opponent's hands or forcing the grip apart.

  • Safety Concerns: Since the Full Nelson can exert significant pressure on the neck, it is important for practitioners to apply it carefully to prevent injury.

The Full Nelson remains a staple in wrestling for its control advantages but is subject to strict regulation in competitive settings to ensure participants' safety.