Game version
Shadow positions: practice the body positions and hand placement on the air while a partner reads out the steps. No contact. Swap.
Chaining Pinning Turns
When one turn is stopped, switch to another: arm bar to half nelson to tight waist.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Your partner lies flat and blocks your first turn gently.
Core: Steady. Beat your own cleanest sequence.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 15 min
- Players
- You and a partner
- Space
- Gym or court
- Bring
- Mat, partner
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Pinning
The steps
How it works
- Your partner lies flat and blocks your first turn gently.
- Switch from the arm bar to the half nelson.
- If that is blocked, go to tight waist and half.
- Do 8 chains each.
Coaching point
Blocked? Switch sides.
Safety: Never pull, crank or twist the head or neck. Keep holds on the arm and body. Pair with a partner of similar size and age. Skin check first: no partner work with a rash, sore or cold sore until a doctor clears it. Clean the mat before you start and shower after.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slow), Core (steady), More (a quick reset). Beat your own cleanest sequence.
Story
You are a chess player planning moves on the board.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own cleanest sequence. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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