A grappling hold (commonly referred to simply as a hold; in Japanese referred to as katame-waza, , "grappling technique") is a grappling, wrestling, judo or other martial arts term for a specific grip that is applied to an opponent. Holds are principally used to control the opponent, and to advance in points or positioning. Holds may be categorized by their function such as clinching, pinning, pain compliance or submission]], while others can be classified by their anatomical effect: chokehold, joint-lock or compression lock.

Clinch hold

A clinch hold (also known as a clinching hold) is a grappling hold which is used in [[clinch fighting with the purpose of controlling the opponent. In wrestling it is referred to as the Tie-up. The use of a clinch hold results in the clinch. Clinch holds can be used to close in on the opponent, as a precursor to a takedown or throw, or to prevent the opponent from moving away or striking effectively. Typical clinch holds include:

• Bear hug
• Collar tie
• Overhook
• Pinch grip tie
• Underhook

Pain compliance hold

A pain compliance hold (also referred to as a pain compliance technique or sometimes a pain hold) is a grappling hold which uses painful joint lock, compression lock or pressure point technique to control a person or opponent. Pain compliance techniques are used by law enforcement, and often taught as a self-defense technique in martial arts and combatives.

Frequently used by police and corrections personnel in accordance with an "escalation of force" policy, such techniques presume a rational adversary. Some altered states such as mental illness, extreme flexibility, phencyclidine and amphetamine useFact: date=June 2008, or extreme adrenaline may alter the subject's perception of pain or willingness to submit. Like other forms of non-lethal force, such pain compliance strategies are not perfect and may be abused as a form of torture, with plausible deniability. For this reason the use of pain compliance holds is often subject to explicit rules of engagement designed to prevent abuse and avoid conflict escalation.

Pinning hold

A pinning hold (also known as a hold down and in Japanese as osaekomi-waza, 押込技, "pinning technique") is a general grappling hold used in ground fighting which is aimed at exerting superior control over an opponent and pinning the opponent to the ground. Pinning holds where both the opponent's shoulders touch the ground are considered winning conditions in several combat sports.