Grappling holds are used principally to control the opponent and to advance in points or positioning.

The holds may be categorized by their function, such as clinching, pinning, or submission, while others can be classified by their anatomical effect: chokehold, headlock, joint-lock, or compression lock.

Pinning holds where both of the opponent's shoulders touch the ground are considered winning conditions in several combat sports.

In combat sports a submission hold (colloquially referred to as a "submission") is a grappling hold that is applied with the purpose of forcing an opponent to submit out of either extreme pain or fear of injury.

When used, these techniques may cause dislocation, torn ligaments, bone fractures, unconsciousness, or even death.