Wrist-grab releases

Setup

1. Pairs of similar size and age. One partner grabs; the other practises the release. Pairs spread out with room to step back.
2. Agree the stop signal before anything else: a tap on the partner or the word 'stop' means let go straight away, every time.
3. The grabber holds firmly enough to feel real but never squeezes hard, twists or yanks. Every release is done slowly first.

How it runs

1. Same-side grab: the grabber steps in and takes the partner's wrist with the hand directly opposite, like a mirror image.
2. Release: bend the elbow and bring it in towards the body, then turn the wrist so the forearm rolls out through the gap between the grabber's thumb and fingers. Step back into a guard stance as the hand comes free.
3. Add the voice: a loud 'No!' or a kihap as the hand comes free, then step away and look for help.
4. Two hands on one wrist: the student reaches between the grabber's arms with the free hand, holds their own fist, and pulls it up and back towards their own shoulder, through the grabber's thumbs. Step away into guard.
5. Each release five times slowly, then five at a steady speed, then swap roles.
6. Finish with 'Which way?': the grabber chooses a grab without saying which, and the student finds the thumbs and releases.

Coaching points

• Escape through the thumb: it is the weakest part of any grip.
• Use the whole body: a small step or turn of the hips does more than tugging with the arm.
• A bent elbow is easier to free than a straight arm.
• After the release the job is to get away and tell a trusted adult or get help, not to stay and fight.
• Releases are always applied gently in training. Speed only goes up when both partners are comfortable, and the grabber lets go on the first tap.

Common mistakes

• Pulling straight back against the grabber's fingers.
• Freezing and staring at the grabbed hand.
• The grabber letting go before the release, or holding on after a tap.
• Releasing and then standing still in front of the partner.