RINGEN VOCABULARY
By Jason Vail and Casper Bradak
Copyright 2010
The medieval and Renaissance fighting manuals are a rich source of sportive and combative wrestling techniques. These techniques are pictured and described, often in such great detail that replicating them in the modern salon is readily possible. But rarely do the period authors assign names to their techniques. The lack of an agreed system of names complicates our ability to discuss and share this exciting and effective material. To remedy that deficit, we have compiled a suggested list of names for many of the most common and effective throws, locks and blows found in ringen.
THROWS
Forward over-the-leg, or forward over-the-thigh — with various grips (also known as the back heel).
Backward over-the-leg, or backward over-the-thigh— with various grips
One leg pick (aka single leg)
Two leg pick (aka double leg)
Short hip throw — with various grips
Hip throw
Half hip throw
Headlock hip throw
Outside hip throw
Reverse hip
Shoulder throw
Reverse shoulder throw
Inside sweeping thigh or inner thigh throw
Outside leg hook
Inside leg hook
Cross hook, or outside cross hook
Stomach throw
Fireman’s carry
Rear lift
One leg
Two legs
Groin or inner thigh lift
ARM LOCKS
Pressing arm
Over the shoulder arm break
Arm bar against upper arm or two-on-one
Upper key (both your arms outside his)
Upper key (first figure 4 or kimura)
Upper key (second figure 4 or kimura)
Upper key, cupping elbow (elbow cup)
Middle key
Lower key
Lower key with underbind
Arm bar with underbind
Armpit arm bar
Across stomach arm bar
Simple arm break
BLOWS
Punch
Palm heel
Edge of the hand
Front kick
Side kick
Knee
Nose press
Ear press (attacking mastoid process)
Throat press (attacking hollow of throat)
With thumb
With fingers
With forearm
Groin grab
Thumb/finger break
Stomach press
Elbow
Basic parries
With palm
With edge of the hand
