An idiom referring to the use of the body as an active element within the manipulation or control of an opponent.

Comments:

Third Handing is a method to allow one to:

a)strengthen the application of a maneuver by employing the body as a backing mechanism

b)free up the Natural Weapons of an upper extremity for use other than it is currently occupied in

c)check off an alternate Natural Weapon (such as an elbow) of an opponent by using the body to apply pressure to the joint of the same extremity that is actively being manipulated or controlled

d)a combination of all

From the first perspective (a): Third Handing can be thought of as engaging other parts of the body (usually the abdomen or chest area) in helping to aid in actively manipulating an opponent (for example: with something like applying a wrist lock)

From the second perspective (b): Third Handing allows one to maintain proper control over the opponent (for example: with something like an elbow lock) - allowing one (1) hand to free up and be used for other purposes.

From the third perspective (c): Third Handing is a form of checking by eliminating gaps between potential targets (on you) and potential weapons (on them) by purposely eliminating any Path of Travel from the potential weapon.

Technically speaking, any Environmental Object could theoretically be used as a Third Hand. but this term is normally executed using the body.

Derivation:

The term comes from the body being uses as a "third hand" in the equation of active elements within the examination of a situation.

It is frequently described when being taught as: "wishing you had a third hand" within the situation being examined - and the body filling that roll.

Example(s):

Situation #1: you have the opponent's right hand in the beginnings of a right wrist lock (fingers pointing upward) in front of your body with both of your hands. You wish to apply the wrist lock further by rotating the lock toward your left flank (counter clockwise).

Solution: placing the opponent's hand against your chest and rotating with both the body and hands in unison will allow you to free up the right hand for other purposes.

Situation #2: you (in a left neutral bow facing forward) have the opponent bent over and facing to your right flank (3:00) with their right arm extended toward you (toward your rear), as you apply a right downward elbow lock with your left arm, while holding their right wrist with your right hand. You wish to keep the opponent bent over, yet free up one of your hands for use.

Solution: placing the opponent's right elbow against your lower abdomen area and applying a relatively upward pressure to their right elbow against your abdomen with your right hand will allow you to free up you left hand for other purposes.

Related Definition(s):

Applied, Check, Contour, Control, Lock, Move, Timing, Weapon

Related Term(s):

Availability of Target, Availability of Weapon, Close Range, Contact Manipulation, Control Maintenance, Control Manipulation, Counter Manipulation, Environmental Object, Eyeless Sight, Natural Weapon, Target Availability, Weapon Availability