Punch Choke Overview
Heath Pedigo introduces the punch choke as an alternative to the cross-collar choke when finger placement is unavailable. CJ demonstrates the technique, noting its particular effectiveness in competition and children's classes due to its unexpected nature.
Grip Mechanics and Looseness
The punch choke requires a deliberately looser grip on the collar compared to a cross-collar choke. This looser grip allows the practitioner to pull the collar downward and punch across with greater leverage, similar to a zipper tightening effect.
Positioning and Leg Movement
The practitioner brings the knee up and repositions the opponent's body to create mechanical advantage. As the collar is pulled down and punched across, the legs push the opponent away to amplify the choking pressure.
Collar Grip Placement
The grip should be positioned lower on the collar than in a cross-collar choke, facilitating a pulling-down motion followed by a horizontal punch. This lower placement on the lapel enables more effective downward pulling mechanics.
Deception and Threat Assessment
A deliberately loose grip appears less threatening than a tight cross-collar grip, potentially masking intent to attempt triangle or other submissions. This reduced threat profile can catch higher-level opponents off-guard compared to the expected cross-collar setup.
Fist Positioning and Striking Mechanics
The fist drives into the neck while simultaneously punching across the opponent's throat. The striking hand should be positioned as close as possible to cut off arterial flow, ideally beneath the chin rather than directly into the neck.
Setup from Guard Position
From a closed guard with an overhook grip, the practitioner feints a triangle or alternative submission to distract the opponent's defense. With the opponent's attention diverted, the punch choke is executed by pulling the lower-placed collar grip downward while punching across the neck.
Wrist Positioning and Finish
The striking wrist should be slightly flared outward to maximize impact and cutting efficiency as the punch choke is applied. Proper wrist positioning ensures the technique generates maximum pressure on the carotid artery.
Punch Choke by Heath Pedigo
Key Takeaways
- •Punch Choke Overview
- •Grip Mechanics and Looseness
- •Positioning and Leg Movement
- •Collar Grip Placement
PUNCH CHOKE https://bjjfanatics.com Heath Pedigo shows how to do the Punch Choke Jiu Jitsu move in this video. Heath Pedigo is an accomplished BJJ black belt instructor and head of Pedigo Fighting Systems and the Daisy Fresh squad of grapplers. This is an excerpt from THE DAISY FRESH CURRICULUM BLUE BELT STRIPE 2 GI available from BJJFanatics.com. Click Here To Check Out Heath Pedigo's Instructional Videos - https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/fighter_HEATH-PEDIGO To learn more great Jiu Jitsu Techniques, visit https://www.bjjfanatics.com BJJ Fanatics was started by a pair of black belts (Bernardo Faria & Michael Zenga) who feel that nothing is more important than improving your BJJ skills as much as possible in the least amount of time. Their aim was to create a shop for BJJ Students who don’t look at BJJ as a sport – but as a lifestyle. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAqme-CE-yLm01BV5nUjPPA Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/733553463659020/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjj.fanatics/?hl=en 15% OFF On All Of Our BJJ Instructional Videos - Just Use The Coupon Code: FANATICSYOUTUBE Website: https://bjjfanatics.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about choke?
This video covers punch choke overview, grip mechanics and looseness, positioning and leg movement. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Fanatics.
How long does it take to learn choke?
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.
What are the key details for finishing choke?
From a closed guard with an overhook grip, the practitioner feints a triangle or alternative submission to distract the opponent's defense. With the opponent's attention diverted, the punch choke is executed by pulling the lower-placed collar grip downward while punching across the neck.




