Introduction to the Standing Guillotine Choke

The standing guillotine choke is an effective self-defense technique applicable in street fighting scenarios. This air choke restricts the opponent's breathing by applying pressure to the throat rather than targeting blood flow to the brain.

Proper Hand and Arm Positioning

To execute the guillotine, wrap the opponent's head with the thumb pointing toward the ceiling to ensure the wrist edge contacts the throat. Secure the grip by clasping the opposite wrist, creating a locked, airtight seal around the neck.

Generating Leverage Through Hip and Shoulder Mechanics

Establish a solid base before applying the choke, then lock the elbow and bridge upward toward the ceiling. The key to effective pressure is squatting down and driving the hips forward while pulling the shoulders backward, creating maximum leverage rather than simply rising onto the toes.

Defense Against a Takedown Attempt

When an opponent shoots for a takedown, stop their shoulders with one or both hands to nullify impact and create space. Step in and wrap the neck with proper hand positioning, establish a strong base, then bridge to finish the choke.

Executing the Guillotine from the Ground—Close Guard Variation

If the opponent successfully brings the fight to the ground after the initial wrap, transition into a tight close guard by locking the knees to the hips. From this position, finish the guillotine by turning the elbow toward the hip bone rather than stretching upward, which conserves energy and increases pressure.

Controlling Opponent Escape Routes During Takedown Defense

Once the neck is secured and the opponent attempts a takedown, identify which direction they may attempt to escape. Step with one foot onto their opposite foot to control their movement, then lie down and lock the close guard to finish the choke from a grounded position.

Training Safety and Partner Communication

During practice, the receiving partner must communicate by tapping the body to indicate they feel the choke and prevent injury. This feedback system allows the practitioner to calibrate pressure and understand the technique's effectiveness.

ON THE MAT THURSDAYS | The Standing Guillotine Choke | Self-Defense | Street Fight | BJJ | MMA

Danny Fung

Hand-Clasp Guillotine

2 min read·7 key moments·PT6M33S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Standing Guillotine Choke
•Proper Hand and Arm Positioning
•Generating Leverage Through Hip and Shoulder Mechanics
•Defense Against a Takedown Attempt

In this video, I go over the Guillotine Choke. This technique can be used offensively against an attacker whose sole existence is to try and tackle you down to the ground in a fight. The Guillotine can be done in the standing position, and can very well be applied on the ground while your opponent is kneeling inside your Guard - so you can put them to sleep. Go train! Oss! EXPERIENCE MMA & FITNESS 388 St-Louis, Gatineau, Qc 819.643.8444 www.experiencemma.com MUAY THAI || JIU-JITSU || BOXING || FITNESS KIDS & ADULTS Fully accredited Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school affiliated with the World Muay Thai Council and Alliance BJJ, respectively.

Related Techniques

Arm Trap Triangle Arm-In Guillotine from Guard Double Attack to Kata-Gatame Ezequiel Choke from the Back Guillotine from Clinch

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about hand-clasp guillotine?

This video covers introduction to the standing guillotine choke, proper hand and arm positioning, generating leverage through hip and shoulder mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from Danny Fung.

How long does it take to learn hand-clasp guillotine?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.