Problem Statement: Chin Tuck Defence

When an opponent tucks their chin tightly against their chest, it creates a barrier that prevents an attacker from securing the space needed to execute an ear-hanging choke from back control. Even after controlling the opponent's hands, the tucked chin closes off access to the neck, requiring a specialized approach to overcome this common defensive posture.

The Arrowhead Hand Position

The instructor introduces the 'arrowhead' configuration, formed by pointing and curling the index finger while the thumb fills the space directly behind it, with the thumb knuckle reinforcing the index finger knuckle. This bone-on-bone contact allows aggressive digging without relying on fingernails or the soft pad of the thumb, making it effective and safer for the opponent.

Head Position and Framing

A common mistake is failing to engage the attacker's head and chin with their own face and chin position. The instructor must create a frame with his facial structure against the opponent, preventing them from turning their head laterally to re-tuck their chin and recede back into a defensive position.

Entry Along the Jawline

Rather than attacking directly underneath the chin, the arrowhead begins near the jawline beneath the ear and follows the anatomical line of the jaw downward. This angle allows the attacker to bypass the tucked chin defense by accessing the softer neck tissue and sliding underneath toward the lever point.

The Dig and Lift Sequence

As the arrowhead digs along the jawline, it reaches the point where the opponent's only defensive option becomes lifting the chin upward rather than turning it laterally. This forced upward movement creates the necessary space for the attacker to transition into controlling the rear neck and choke grip.

Weak-Side Application

The chin-tuck dig is typically used from the weak side of back control, where the attacking arm has greater articulation and freedom of movement. The attacker secures arm control, frames the head, and executes the arrowhead dig while maintaining a tight chest-to-back connection.

Grip Formation and Elbow Alignment

Once the arrowhead creates sufficient space, the attacker punches through to form the rear neck choke grip, ensuring the bicep and forearm form a two-point contact system against opposite sides of the neck. The free hand grips the attacker's own collar, their shoulder, or the opponent's trap to prevent hand escape.

Transition to Strong Side

Rather than finishing from the weak side, the attacker walks away from the engaged hook to reposition to the strong side where the rear neck choke can be completed with greater mechanical advantage. This repositioning maintains pressure while moving the opponent's body to optimize the finishing position.

Digging Under The Chin - Back Control Basics Part 12

RVV BJJ

Chin Tuck Defence

3 min read·8 key moments·PT4M42S video

Key Takeaways

•Problem Statement: Chin Tuck Defence
•The Arrowhead Hand Position
•Head Position and Framing
•Entry Along the Jawline

Digging under the chin of your opponent can be very difficult if they are adept at defending the back. Here are some tips of proper dig mechanics for the rear naked choke. My other instructionals and more will be releasing on www.youtube.com/goldbjj Check out goldbjj.com for awesome training products like Gis, Nogi gear, gear bags, supplements etc. My favourite brand! *** WANT MORE? *** Join hundreds of other BJJ athletes in our online academy led by BJJ Black Belt, Rob Biernacki. Access Rob’s constantly evolving concepts from beginner to advanced, personalized Q&A, and much more. Click here for the details – https://go.bjjconcepts.net/ytlink Use code "immunity" for a free week to try and 15% off after. Check out my Mantis Guard course, or my course for Health Care professionals (self defense and control strategies) at - https://courses.rvvbjj.ca

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about chin tuck defence?

This video covers problem statement: chin tuck defence, the arrowhead hand position, head position and framing. It provides detailed instruction from RVV BJJ.

How long does it take to learn chin tuck defence?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.