The guillotine choke is a submission technique widely practiced in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Executing this move effortlessly shows how agile and versatile a grappler is. This technique can transition to multiple attacks, guards, and submissions.
It is achieved by making an arm triangle resembling the guillotine. If done successfully, the opponent is forced to tap out, signaling to stop the match and declaring a win by submission.
In this blog, we will focus on how to execute the Guillotine Choke, explore the differences between blood chokes and air chokes, and discuss common variations of the Guillotine Choke.
What is a Guillotine Choke?
The Guillotine Choke is a versatile submission technique in grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It’s introduced early in training, yet it often takes practitioners a considerable amount of time to master.
The objective of the Guillotine Choke is to trap the opponent’s neck and lead them into a headlock. By using your forearms and elbow, you create a choking mechanism, forming a distinct position that resembles a guillotine—hence the name. The goal is to secure a submission by choking the opponent.
This technique involves blocking the flow of air by targeting a vital area, the windpipe. Pressure is applied until the opponent becomes uncomfortable, leading them to tap out or pass out.
Let’s explore how to execute this technique in detail.
How to Execute the Guillotine Choke Technique in BJJ?
Choking your opponent is a tricky tactic. A good Guillotine Choke application relies on three core components: arm placement, body alignment, and the proper way to apply pressure. These small details are often overlooked, but incorporating them into your training can make a significant difference when executing the move in a match.
The small details matter, and in some cases, they are overlooked in a competitor’s training. This can result in a weak choke. However, with a deep understanding of the key components, you will recognize various opportunities to execute the choke effectively.
Arm Placement
Proper arm placement prolongs the choke and prevents the opponent from escaping. This requires an awareness of where you are making contact and how you apply pressure. Additionally, being mindful of your free arm and precisely where you place your weight is crucial to securing the move.
With proper arm placement, you need to:
- Identify your choking arm and your grasping arm.
- Put your choking arm as high as possible, avoiding it slipping at hip level.
- Put the forearm further under the chin.
- Your grasping arm is your free hand. Use it to grasp the wrist of your choking arm.
- Now, you form a triangle-like shape with your forearms.
- Squeeze the chest and neck of your opponent using your free arm.
- Put weight and pressure on the area where the opponent’s windpipe ais located.
Body Positioning
Body positioning determines how effective the choke will be. Your upper and lower body stances indicate whether the opponent will be able to escape.
Upper body alignment
To maintain proper upper body alignment during the Guillotine Choke, you should:
- Align your head with your spine, keeping it close to the opponent during the choke.
- Keep your spine straight for leverage and power; avoid hunching your back.
- Slightly direct your chest forward, and keep your shoulders relaxed.
- Engage your core to apply consistent pressure and maintain balance
Lower Body Alignment
To maintain proper lower body alignment during the Guillotine Choke, you should:
- Wrap your legs tightly around the opponent’s waist, especially when applying the choke from a closed guard.
- Place your feet on the opponent’s hips while pressing their head down to apply pressure.
- Cross your ankles to secure the guillotine position.
- Use your legs to squeeze and apply additional pressure to the opponent.
- Tuck your knees close to your chest to prevent the opponent from escaping.
Blood Choke vs. Air Choke
Blood chokes and air chokes are two standard methods of applying a choke. In a blood choke, the carotid artery is compressed, restricting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. This lack of oxygen causes the opponent to feel lightheaded and tap out. If the hold is maintained and they do not tap, they may lose consciousness. Referees in tournaments are trained to assess the severity of a blood choke, and they will signal a submission and stop the match if necessary.
An air choke, on the other hand, involves blocking the opponent’s airway, leading to shortness of breath. This immediate restriction of airflow often prompts a quick response from the opponent to tap out to avoid passing out.
When to Execute a Guillotine Choke
Whether you are applying the Guillotine Choke from a standing position or from the mat, it can be executed effectively. Even when transitioning from passing the guard or other attacks, paying attention to the details allows you to finish the choke seamlessly.
When Standing
A standing Guillotine Choke occurs when the opponent moves toward you, often attempting to grab your legs for a takedown or to transition to side control. You can use this opportunity to secure their head against your chest and begin executing the choke.
When on the Mat
The possibility of transitioning to a submission via Guillotine Choke is high when on the ground. First, you need to get your opponent into a guard position. Timing is key—wait for the right moment when your opponent’s head is close enough while your knees are on the mat, then you can begin executing the choke.
When Forcing an Opponent to Submit
A guillotine choke is ideal for when you want to force an opponent into submission. Every time the opponent’s head is directed downwards, it is a perfect chance to use the guillotine technique.
When Countering Defense
Countering defense during a Guillotine Choke can be tricky, yet it’s an effective tactic. The ideal time to secure the Guillotine Choke is when you want to compromise your opponent’s position—such as when they attempt a sweep or try to pass your guard. If your opponent leaves their neck exposed, take it as an opportunity to execute the choke.
Common Variations of the Guillotine Choke
The following are different variations, each addressing unique situations.
Arm in Guillotine: The Arm-in Guillotine, sometimes called the “Renzo Trick” after its inventor Renzo Gracie, involves using a chinstrap grip to cup your opponent’s chin and apply the choke. This version also resembles the high-elbow guillotine.
10 Finger Guillotine: The 10-Finger Guillotine starts from a sprawl position, often as a counter to a double-leg takedown. As you sprawl, you weave your hands together, gripping your opponent’s chin as if holding a football. By using your hips to drive pressure, you push their head down and their chin toward their chest, choking them with your ten fingers.
High-elbow Guillotine: Popularized by Marcelo Garcia, the High-Elbow Guillotine is designed to counter the Von Flue choke. Unlike the Arm-in Guillotine, this variation involves raising both elbows high while executing the choke, focusing on trapping the neck.
Conclusion
Those who can execute the Guillotine Choke effortlessly add another achievement to their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey. If you want to measure your progress in BJJ, mastering the Guillotine Choke is a strong indicator of how far you’ve come.
Not everyone who attempts to apply the Guillotine Choke in ground fighting is successful. However, those who understand the importance of the finer details often find success and win tournaments. Mastering the core components of this technique requires effort and a commitment to practice. Therefore, be sure to learn the method from experts to keep yourself safe and in top form.
