In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the rear naked choke ranks as one of the most effective and essential submissions. It’s powerful, easy to learn, and doesn’t require a great deal of strength to use. Not to mention, you can end a match quickly if you’re able to pull it off. Unlike other submissions, like an armbar, which a fighter can resist, there is no way out of a rear naked choke once it’s locked in.
Because of the anatomical implications of this technique, it is absolutely essential you understand how it works, or else you risk seriously injuring an opponent or sparring partner. The goal of the rear naked choke is actually to cut off the blood supply to the brain, not obstruct the air passage. Cutting off blood supply results in unconsciousness within five to ten seconds, while cutting off air supply might take minutes. It should go without saying the neck is a really sensitive area, and it’s really important you learn how to properly apply this move and respond quickly if the other fighter taps out (or falls unconscious).
In this article, we will explore the nuances of the rear naked choke, providing detailed instructions and expert tips to help you refine and perfect this submission.
Technique and Execution of Rear Naked Choke
Specifically, the rear naked choke is usually applied from the back mount, which is widely considered the strongest position in BJJ. Its advantages are many, but most importantly, the person trapped in this position can’t see their opponent. That means if you get into back mount, you’re in a position to launch attacks with little fear of retribution. It’s a great place to use the rear naked choke, so we’ll start there.
From the back mount, standing directly behind a kneeling opponent with an over-and-under grip: one hand under the armpit and the other over the shoulder. The hand under the armpit makes a fist, and the other hand grabs onto the fist, forming a secure hold and preventing your opponent from rotating out of this vulnerable position.
Begin the choke by creating space about the width of your wrist between the opponent’s chin and chest. Your opponent will likely grab your hand and turn their chin down to stop the strangulation. If this happens, dig the knuckle of your thumb behind their ear and slowly work it over and beneath their jaw. Once the thumb penetrates, extend your fingers and walk them across until your wrist is in place. Now, you can lift and bring your elbow around to secure the choke. Place your hand behind the opponent’s neck and cross your wrists to avoid exposing your hand.
Finish the choke by taking your elbow over the opponent’s shoulder and rotating your body rather than squeezing with your arms. If done correctly, they should either tap out quickly or lose consciousness; you need to pay close attention and release the hold immediately when they tap or even if there is a small possibility they went unconscious, in order to avoid injury. When first learning this move (or any submission), it is best to learn directly from a qualified instructor.
Defense and Escapes from Rear Naked Choke
Defending against a rear naked choke is a crucial skill in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). The best defense is prevention, but that’s easier said than done. Try to avoid letting your opponent get on your back and secure the rear mount, but if they do, you have to immediately prevent them from connecting their hands. Clamp down on their arm to limit mobility and fight to stop them from linking their hands.
Keep your shoulders up and chin down to make it hard for them to finish the choke. If you can do this long enough, they may get bored or lose focus, creating an opening. Before the choke is locked in, your opponent’s hands will come across your throat, giving you a chance to intercept their wrist. Always drive to the underhook side, then get your head and shoulders on the ground, and work on getting your hips down. As they come to the top, try to get into half guard or full guard.
Your last chance if the rear naked choke is fully locke is to grabs their wrist with one hand while the other goes behind your head. Pull the choking hand off your neck, jam it under your armpit, and hold it. If they are holding your neck with their fingers, pry them free and switch to a two-hand grip on their wrist. If you do that, try popping it over your shoulder toward a straight arm lock.
Common Mistakes and Tips for Mastery of Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke is arguably the most effective submission in all of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to execute. Like most moves, you mess it up if you’re not careful.
One common mistake fighters often make is grabbing the bicep when the come around, leaving the arm dangling. This exposes the arm, allowing the opponent to grab it and potentially hyperextend your elbow if you’re not careful. Instead, when you come around the neck, quickly shoot your hand directly behind their neck so you don’t expose it for your opponent to grab. When doing the arrow entry, always ensure that the tucking hand covers the choking hand.
Another common mistake is placing your forearm across the front of your opponent’s throat, which causes pain but doesn’t properly strangle and, therefore, put them to sleep quickly. Always align your elbow with their nose and chin so you are targeting the arteries on the side of the neck, restricting blood flow.
Conclusion
The rear naked choke is a BJJ cornerstone because it is simple and powerful. You’ll be operating in a delicate area, so it’s important to learn proper execution to avoid injuring other practitioners. Defensively, you won’t have long to fight your way out of this particular choke, so it’s important to drill defending against this move. Learning how to disrupt the choke before it fully locks in can mean the difference between tapping out and turning the tide of the match.
