In this article, you will discover some advanced techniques that will revolutionize your ability to set up and finish chokes. Whether you are a seasoned martial artist or just starting out, these strategies will take your choke game to the next level. From sneaky setups to unbreakable finishes, you’ll learn new tricks and tactics that will leave your opponents tapping out in no time. Get ready to enhance your skillset and become a force to be reckoned with in any grappling situation. Chokes are an integral part of any grappling or submission-based martial art, as they provide an effective way to immobilize and control your opponent. In this article, we will explore advanced setup techniques, submission techniques, finishing techniques, common mistakes to avoid, training drills, choke combinations, counters and escapes, tips for applying chokes in different fighting styles, and legal and safety considerations. By expanding your choke repertoire, you can become a formidable force in any grappling or mixed martial arts (MMA) competition.
Setup Techniques for Chokes
Using the Collar Tie to Set Up Chokes
One effective way to set up chokes is by utilizing the collar tie. The collar tie involves controlling your opponent’s head and neck by wrapping your arm tightly around their neck with your hand gripping their collar. From this position, you have various options to transition into choke setups. One common technique is to use the collar tie to secure a strong grip on your opponent’s collar, allowing you to control their posture and limit their mobility. This sets the stage for executing chokes such as the rear naked choke or the guillotine choke.
Utilizing Wrist Control for Choke Setups
Another powerful setup technique involves wrist control. By controlling your opponent’s wrist, you can limit their ability to defend against your choke attempts. Wrist control allows you to manipulate their arm and position it in such a way that it opens up opportunities for applying chokes. For example, by controlling your opponent’s wrist, you can steer their arm across their own neck, creating a perfect setup for the arm triangle choke or the Japanese necktie.
Transitioning from Mount to Choke Positions
When in the mount position, you have a dominant position that allows you to apply various submissions, including chokes. Transitioning from mount to choke positions can catch your opponent off guard and increase your chances of securing a submission. One effective technique is to transition to the high mount, where you sit back on your opponent’s chest, placing your weight on them and reducing their mobility. From the high mount, there are several choke options available, such as the clock choke or the Peruvian necktie.
Setting Up Chokes from the Back Control
Back control is often considered the most dominant position in grappling. From this position, you have full control over your opponent’s upper body, making it an ideal setup for chokes. To set up chokes from the back control, focus on establishing a strong seatbelt grip by placing one arm over your opponent’s shoulder and the other arm under their armpit, with both hands clasping together. This grip not only provides control but also opens up opportunities for executing powerful submissions like the rear naked choke or the Darce choke.
Submission Techniques for Chokes
Applying the Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke is one of the most effective and frequently used chokes in grappling and MMA. It involves wrapping one arm around your opponent’s neck, with your bicep against one side of their neck and the crook of your elbow against the other side. By squeezing your elbows together and placing pressure on their carotid arteries, you can quickly render your opponent unconscious. The key to a successful rear naked choke is securing proper positioning and maintaining control throughout the submission.
Executing a Guillotine Choke
The guillotine choke is a versatile choke that can be applied from various positions, including standing, kneeling, or even from the guard. It involves wrapping your arm around your opponent’s neck and securing a grip by clasping both hands together or by using a one-handed grip. By applying pressure on the front of their neck, you can cut off their blood flow and air supply, forcing them to either tap out or lose consciousness. Proper technique and timing are crucial for a successful guillotine choke.
Performing the Anaconda Choke
The anaconda choke is a powerful submission that combines elements of the guillotine choke and the D’Arce choke. It involves trapping your opponent’s head and arm while establishing a figure-four grip around their neck and squeezing your elbows together. This choke puts immense pressure on your opponent’s neck and shoulder, making it difficult for them to escape. The anaconda choke can be executed from various positions, such as the turtle position or while transitioning from a failed guillotine choke.
Implementing the Brabo Choke
The Brabo choke, also known as the D’Arce choke, is a popular submission that can be executed from different positions, including the guard, side control, or turtle position. It involves trapping your opponent’s arm by threading it between your arm and your body, creating a vice-like grip on their neck. By applying pressure with your forearm and squeezing your elbows together, you can cut off their blood flow and force a submission. The Brabo choke requires precise positioning and perfect technique to maximize its effectiveness.
Utilizing the Arm Triangle Choke
The arm triangle choke, also known as the side choke or the kata gatame in judo, is a highly effective choke that can be executed from various positions, such as side control or mount. It involves trapping your opponent’s head and one arm between your body and your arm, forming a triangle. By applying pressure with your body weight and squeezing your arms together, you can compress your opponent’s carotid arteries and restrict their breathing. Proper positioning and maintaining control are essential for a successful arm triangle choke.
Using the Darce Choke
The Darce choke, also known as the No-Gi Brabo choke, is a variation of the Brabo choke that does not require the use of a gi or collar. It involves trapping your opponent’s arm with your arm and threading it deep under their neck, while securing a grip on your own bicep. By applying pressure with your forearm and squeezing your arms together, you can cut off their blood flow and force a submission. The Darce choke is a powerful submission that can catch your opponent off guard if executed with precision.
Applying the Loop Choke
The loop choke is a sneaky and highly effective choke that can be executed from various positions, such as standing or from the guard. It involves creating a loop with your lapel or the collar of your opponent’s gi and then threading your arm through the loop. By pulling back and down with the loop while controlling your opponent’s posture, you can quickly close off their blood flow and air supply. The loop choke requires good timing and deception to catch your opponent off guard.
Executing the Clock Choke
The clock choke is a unique and effective choke that can be executed from the turtle position or even while transitioning from other positions. It involves threading one arm under your opponent’s neck and gripping your own lapel or collar. By rotating your body and driving your shoulder into your opponent’s neck, you can create tremendous pressure and render them unable to escape. The clock choke requires precise timing and coordination to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Performing the Peruvian Necktie
The Peruvian necktie is an unorthodox and highly effective choke that can catch your opponent by surprise. It involves wrapping one arm around your opponent’s neck, with your bicep against one side of their neck and your forearm against the other side. By securing a grip on your own shoulder or gi, you can create a tight squeeze that noticeably restricts your opponent’s breathing. The Peruvian necktie can be executed from various positions, such as the guard or while transitioning from a failed guillotine choke.
Implementing the Japanese Necktie
The Japanese necktie is a versatile choke that can be executed from various positions, such as the mount or the side control. It involves wrapping one arm around your opponent’s neck and threading your other arm under their armpit and over their shoulder. By securing a grip on your own hand or wrist, you can create a powerful pressure that severely restricts your opponent’s breathing. The Japanese necktie requires precise control and a solid understanding of leverage to effectively finish the submission.
Finishing Techniques for Chokes
Increasing Pressure with Body Positioning
In order to maximize the effectiveness of your chokes, proper body positioning is crucial. By strategically relocating your body weight and adjusting your angles, you can increase the pressure on your opponent’s neck and make it more difficult for them to escape. For example, when applying the rear naked choke, shifting your body to the side of your choking arm can create a tighter squeeze and limit your opponent’s ability to defend.
Adjusting Hand Placement to Tighten the Choke
The positioning of your hands can greatly impact the effectiveness of a choke. By making subtle adjustments to your hand placement, you can tighten the choke and make it more difficult for your opponent to escape. For example, when applying the guillotine choke, moving your hands higher up on your opponent’s neck and squeezing your elbows together can increase the pressure and cut off their blood flow more effectively.
Applying Constant Squeezing Pressure
To secure a choke, it is essential to maintain constant squeezing pressure throughout the submission. By continuously applying pressure and adjusting your grip as needed, you can wear down your opponent and increase the likelihood of a successful choke. Remember to keep your muscles engaged and avoid releasing the pressure prematurely, as your opponent may find an opportunity to escape.
Using Leverage to Enhance Choke Effectiveness
Leverage plays a crucial role in successfully finishing a choke. By manipulating the angles and positions of your body and limbs, you can maximize the effectiveness of the choke and make it more difficult for your opponent to escape. For example, in the arm triangle choke, positioning your body at a 45-degree angle relative to your opponent’s body and using your head as a lever can create additional pressure and restrict their ability to breathe.
Feigning a Choked Grip to Trick Opponents
Sometimes, trickery and deception can be effective tools in securing a choke. By intentionally loosening your grip or creating the illusion that you are losing control, you can bait your opponent into making a mistake or attempting to escape. When they least expect it, you can quickly tighten your grip and finish the choke, capitalizing on their momentary lapse in judgment.
Applying Choke Variations to Catch Opponents Off Guard
Variation is key when it comes to chokes. By constantly adapting and incorporating different techniques and grips, you can keep your opponent guessing and catch them off guard. For example, transitioning between a guillotine choke and an anaconda choke mid-submission can force your opponent to continually react and defend, increasing the chances of a successful submission.
Combining Choke Techniques for a Layered Attack
Combining multiple choke techniques in a layered attack can be a highly effective strategy. By chaining together different types of chokes, you can overwhelm your opponent’s defenses and increase the chances of securing a submission. For example, transitioning from a guillotine choke to a Brabo choke can catch your opponent off guard, as they may be focused on defending the initial choke attempt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Chokes
Neglecting Proper Technique and Positioning
One common mistake when attempting chokes is neglecting proper technique and positioning. Without a strong foundation and understanding of the mechanics behind each choke, your chances of successfully applying the submission decrease significantly. It is crucial to invest time in learning and refining the correct technique and positioning for each choke to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Applying Excessive Force without Control
While it’s tempting to overpower your opponent and force a submission, applying excessive force without control can lead to ineffective chokes. Chokes rely on precise positioning and technique rather than brute strength alone. By focusing on control and technique, you can conserve energy and maintain a more efficient choke.
Failing to Secure a Strong Initial Grip
Securing a strong initial grip is vital in setting up and finishing a choke. Failing to establish a solid grip leaves room for your opponent to escape or counter your submission attempts. Invest time in developing grip strength and finding the most effective grip for each choke, as a strong initial grip can significantly increase the success rate of your chokes.
Not Maintaining Constant Pressure Throughout the Choke
A common mistake is releasing pressure prematurely during a choke. Maintaining constant pressure throughout the choke is necessary to wear down your opponent and secure the submission. Avoid relying on a quick squeeze, as your opponent may have the opportunity to escape if the pressure is not constant and sustained.
Relying Solely on Strength Instead of Technique
While strength can be advantageous in certain situations, relying solely on strength without proper technique can hinder your choke effectiveness. Chokes are highly technical submissions that rely on leverage, positioning, and control. By prioritizing technique over pure strength, you can increase your chances of executing successful chokes.
Telegraphing Your Intentions to Opponents
Telegraphing your intentions to your opponent can significantly decrease your chances of successfully executing chokes. Subtle cues such as changes in body posture, hand placement, or facial expressions can alert your opponent to your plans. Focus on maintaining a poker face and disguising your intentions to keep your opponent guessing and off-balance.
Training Drills to Improve Choke Techniques
Partner Drills for Choke Setups and Finishes
Partner drills are an effective way to practice choke setups and finishes in a controlled and cooperative environment. By working with a training partner, you can simulate various scenarios and experiment with different techniques. Start by practicing fundamental setups, such as collar tie and wrist control, and gradually progress to more advanced choke techniques. By giving each other feedback and exchanging knowledge, you can both enhance your choke skills.
Solo Exercises to Enhance Choke Control and Grip Strength
Solo exercises are a valuable tool for improving choke control and grip strength. By incorporating exercises such as grip trainers, towel pull-ups, and gi pull-ups into your training routine, you can strengthen the muscles involved in chokes and develop better control over your opponent. Additionally, practicing static holds, such as holding onto the collar or lapel for an extended period, can improve your grip endurance and make it more difficult for your opponent to defend against your chokes.
Live Sparring Sessions with an Emphasis on Chokes
Live sparring sessions provide an opportunity to apply and refine your choke techniques in a realistic and dynamic environment. By actively seeking choke opportunities during sparring, you can test your skills and adapt your techniques based on your opponent’s reactions. Emphasize the technical aspects of the chokes rather than solely focusing on achieving submissions, as this will help you develop a deeper understanding of the mechanics and principles underlying each choke.
Specific Positional Training for Choke Transitions
Specific positional training allows you to focus on specific situations in which chokes are commonly applied. By drilling specific transitions and sequences from positions like the mount, side control, or back control, you can improve your ability to seamlessly flow from one choke to another. Focus on maintaining control, fluidity, and proper timing during these positional training sessions to ensure smooth transitions and successful submissions.
Visualization and Mental Rehearsal of Choke Techniques
Visualization and mental rehearsal are powerful tools for improving choke techniques. By mentally visualizing yourself executing chokes with precision and success, you can enhance your understanding of the techniques and build confidence in your abilities. Take the time to visualize and rehearse various choke scenarios, including setups, transitions, and finishes. The more vividly you can imagine the technique, the more effectively you can execute it when the opportunity presents itself.
Developing Choke Combinations and Sequences
Identifying Choke Setups That Flow Well Together
Developing combinations and sequences of chokes requires identifying setups that flow well together. Certain choke setups naturally lead to follow-up submissions or transitions. For example, after attempting a failed guillotine choke, transitioning seamlessly into an anaconda choke or a Brabo choke can catch your opponent off guard and increase your chances of securing a submission. Experiment with different combinations and pay attention to the natural flow of the chokes to develop effective sequences.
Creating Chains of Attacks to Maximize Choke Opportunities
Chains of attacks involve stringing together multiple chokes to create a continuous and relentless series of attacks. By chaining different chokes together, you can create constant pressure and force your opponent to continually defend. For example, transitioning between a guillotine choke, an arm triangle choke, and a Brabo choke can overwhelm your opponent and make it challenging for them to escape or counter. Practice these chains of attacks to develop a high-paced and relentless style of choking.
Developing a Systematic Approach to Chaining Chokes
Developing a systematic approach to chaining chokes is essential for seamless and effective transitions. By categorizing chokes based on common setups and positions, you can create a roadmap for transitioning between different chokes. For example, after establishing the back control, follow a systematic progression from rear naked choke to Darce choke to anaconda choke, allowing you to maintain control and increase the probability of securing a submission. Develop a systematic approach that aligns with your personal style and strengths.
Combining Different Types of Chokes for Versatility
Combining different types of chokes enhances your versatility as a grappler. By incorporating a variety of chokes into your arsenal, such as rear naked chokes, guillotine chokes, and anaconda chokes, you can adapt to different situations and opponents. Combining different types of chokes allows you to exploit the strengths and weaknesses of different techniques, keeping your opponent guessing and off-balance.
Adapting to Opponent Reactions and Changing Choke Plans
Flexibility and adaptability are crucial when it comes to chokes. Your opponent’s reactions and defenses will often dictate your course of action. Be prepared to adapt and change your choke plans based on their reactions. If a particular choke is not working, be ready to seamlessly transition to another option. By staying one step ahead and being adaptable, you can maintain control and secure submissions even in the face of resistance.
Counters and Escapes for Chokes
Defending Against Collar Tie Choke Setups
Defending against collar tie choke setups requires understanding the mechanics and techniques involved in breaking free from this control. One effective counter is to use your opposite hand to grip your training partner’s hand that is controlling your collar. By twisting your body away from the choke and applying pressure with your grip, you can disrupt their control and create an opportunity to escape or counter.
Countering Wrist Control for Choke Prevention
When your opponent tries to establish wrist control for choke setups, countering their grip is essential to prevent the choke from being applied. One effective counter is to use your opposite hand to grip their wrist and break their grip. Focus on creating leverage by using your forearm or shoulder to apply pressure to their hand, forcing them to release their grip. By quickly countering their wrist control, you can prevent the choke setup from progressing.
Escaping from Back Control to Avoid Chokes
Escaping from back control is crucial to avoid being caught in chokes. One effective escape is to establish a two-on-one grip on your opponent’s choking arm, using both of your hands to control their wrist or forearm. By driving your shoulder into their chest and creating space, you can create a window of opportunity to escape and regain a more favorable position. Timing and explosive movement are key to escaping from back control and avoiding potential chokes.
Recognizing and Countering Common Choke Grips
Recognizing and countering common choke grips is essential for defending against chokes effectively. For example, if your opponent establishes a deep rear naked choke grip, one counter is to bring both of your hands up to their choking arm and peel their elbow away from your neck, creating space and relieving pressure. By understanding the various choke grips and their mechanics, you can more effectively defend against chokes and escape precarious situations.
Using Proper Technique to Defend Against Rear Naked Chokes
Proper technique is crucial when defending against rear naked chokes, as this is one of the most commonly encountered chokes. One effective defense is to create a “phone booth” position by tucking your chin down to your chest and positioning your hands on the inside of your opponent’s choking arm. By maintaining good posture and protecting your neck, you can make it more difficult for your opponent to apply a rear naked choke. Additionally, focusing on breaking their grip and creating space can provide an opportunity to escape or counter.
Escaping from Tight Guillotine Choke Positions
Escaping from tight guillotine choke positions requires a combination of technique and explosiveness. One effective escape is to quickly drop your weight, tuck your chin, and drive your shoulder into your opponent’s chest, creating space and alleviating pressure. From there, you can use your arms and upper body to transition into a more favorable position or to break their grip. Timing and explosiveness are crucial in successfully escaping from tight guillotine choke positions.
Tips for Applying Chokes in Different Fighting Styles
Applying Chokes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is renowned for its focus on chokes and submissions. When applying chokes in BJJ, it is vital to prioritize control and technique. Establishing dominant positions, such as mount or back control, is key to setting up a variety of chokes. Additionally, in BJJ, gi chokes using the collar and lapel are frequently utilized. To excel in applying chokes in BJJ, focus on developing a deep understanding of positions, grips, transitions, and timing.
Modifying Choke Techniques for MMA
In MMA, chokes can be highly effective when properly executed. However, certain modifications may need to be made due to the absence of a gi or collar. In no-gi MMA, the focus shifts to utilizing chokes that do not require gripping fabric, such as the guillotine choke, the D’Arce choke, or the rear naked choke. Additionally, the threat of strikes in MMA allows for different setups and opportunities for chokes. Adapting choke techniques to the unique demands of MMA requires an understanding of both grappling and striking.
Using Chokes Effectively in Judo and Wrestling
While chokes may not be as prevalent in judo and wrestling as they are in BJJ, they can still be effective tools when properly utilized. In judo, chokes are typically applied while standing or from the top position. The focus is often on utilizing the gi for chokes, such as collar chokes or using the lapel for control. In wrestling, chokes can be utilized to maintain control or force an opponent to the ground. By incorporating chokes into your judo or wrestling game, you can add a new dimension to your submission and control options.
Adapting Chokes for Self-Defense Situations
Chokes can be invaluable in self-defense situations as they allow you to quickly immobilize an opponent without causing severe harm. When adapting chokes for self-defense, it is essential to prioritize control and de-escalation. Focus on securing dominant positions and utilizing chokes that allow you to maintain control while minimizing potential injuries. Remember, the goal in self-defense is to neutralize the threat and ensure personal safety, not to cause unnecessary harm.
Understanding Choke Variations in Different Martial Arts
Different martial arts may have distinct variations of chokes due to their specific rule sets or cultural influences. Understanding and appreciating these variations can enhance your overall choke repertoire. Take the time to explore different martial arts and their choke techniques, such as Japanese jujutsu, Catch Wrestling, or Sambo. By expanding your knowledge and embracing the diversity of chokes across different martial arts, you can further develop your skill set and become a well-rounded practitioner.
Legal and Safety Considerations for Chokes
Knowing the Rules and Regulations Regarding Chokes
Before engaging in any grappling or combat sport, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations governing the use of chokes. Different organizations and competitions may have varying rules regarding the application of chokes, including prohibited techniques or situations in which certain chokes are not allowed. It is your responsibility as a practitioner to ensure that you adhere to these rules to maintain a safe and fair environment.
Recognizing Potential Dangers and Risks of Chokes
While chokes can be highly effective submissions, they also come with inherent risks and dangers. Chokes, if not applied with care, can cause serious injury, including loss of consciousness or damage to the carotid arteries. As a practitioner, it is important to understand the risks involved and take necessary precautions to minimize injury. Engage in training with responsible partners and prioritize safety at all times.
Communicating Effectively with Training Partners
Effective communication with your training partners is essential when practicing chokes. Clearly discuss and establish boundaries, tap signals, and verbal cues to ensure that both parties are on the same page. By fostering open communication and maintaining a culture of respect and safety, you can create a conducive training environment that minimizes the risk of injury during chokes.
Applying Chokes Responsibly and Ethically
Applying chokes responsibly and ethically is a fundamental aspect of any martial art. Understand that chokes are submissions intended to immobilize your opponent, not to cause unnecessary harm or injury. Focus on respecting your training partners and opponents, taking care to apply chokes with controlled force and precision. Ultimately, the goal is to push your limits and improve your skills while maintaining the safety and well-being of those around you.
Expanding Your Choke Repertoire
Studying and Learning from Expert Choke Artists
To expand your choke repertoire, it is essential to study and learn from expert choke artists. Seek out instructional videos, books, or seminars led by experienced practitioners who specialize in chokes. By observing and absorbing their techniques, philosophies, and strategies, you can gain invaluable insights that will enhance your own choke game.
Experimenting with Different Choke Variations
Expanding your choke repertoire involves experimentation and exploration. Don’t be afraid to try out different choke variations and techniques during training sessions. By experimenting, you can discover new setups, finishes, or transitions that suit your style and body type. Embrace the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and continuously challenge yourself to expand your choke arsenal.
Combining Chokes with Other Submission Techniques
Chokes can be seamlessly integrated with other submission techniques to create a well-rounded attack arsenal. By combining chokes with joint locks, sweeps, or takedowns, you can keep your opponents guessing and increase your overall effectiveness as a grappler. Learn how different submissions complement each other and explore creative ways to chain them together in your training.
Regularly Attending Seminars and Workshops
Attending seminars and workshops led by renowned instructors is an excellent way to expand your choke repertoire. These events often provide opportunities to learn new techniques, receive feedback from experts, and train with practitioners from different backgrounds. By regularly attending seminars and workshops, you can gain exposure to different approaches and perspectives on chokes, helping you broaden your understanding and skill set.
Seeking Feedback and Guidance from Experienced Practitioners
Seeking feedback and guidance from experienced practitioners is invaluable for expanding your choke repertoire. Take advantage of training with higher-ranked individuals or seeking the advice of instructors who have a deep understanding of chokes. By actively seeking feedback and incorporating their insights into your training, you can refine your technique, overcome challenges, and progress as a grappler.
In conclusion, chokes are versatile and effective submissions that can be applied in various grappling and martial arts disciplines. Whether you are a BJJ practitioner, a judoka, an MMA fighter, or someone interested in self-defense, developing a comprehensive understanding of chokes is essential. By mastering setup techniques, submission techniques, finishing techniques, and counters, as well as continuously expanding your choke repertoire, you can become a formidable force in any grappling or MMA competition. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect, and responsible application of chokes, ensuring a rewarding and fulfilling martial arts journey.