Introduction and Overview
Stephen Kesting introduces the rear naked choke, one of the most critical techniques in MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. While this submission appears frequently in competition, many practitioners execute it incorrectly, limiting its effectiveness and speed of application.
Starting Position: Over-Under Control
The instructor establishes the foundational over-under position with one hand passing under the opponent's armpit and the other over the shoulder. The hand positioned over the shoulder forms a fist, which the under-hand grasps at the ball of the hand to create a secure grip.
Hand Positioning Strategy
By gripping the wrist or meat of the hand rather than interlacing fingers, the practitioner protects the 'killing hand' from being grabbed by a defensive opponent. This positioning ensures that if the opponent attempts to grab the attacking hand, they can only reach the forearm, making it easier to drive the choke into position.
Two-Step Transition Movement
The transition requires anchoring the hand on the opponent's shoulder before attempting to bring the other hand to the neck. This two-step approach prevents the opponent from simply pulling the attacking hand away, as the shoulder anchor provides structural stability.
Preventing the Defense
As the opponent begins to pull the attacking hand, the practitioner drops the blocking hand downward to create a backstop at the throat. This maneuver prevents the opponent from creating space in front of the neck, which would allow them to escape the choke.
Proper Hand Placement Behind the Head
Rather than shooting the hand across the front of the face where it can be grabbed, the practitioner slides the hand directly behind the opponent's head in what Kesting calls the 'Italian driver' position. This concealed pathway prevents the opponent from seeing and intercepting the hand placement.
Grip Configuration and Thumb Position
The attacking hand should be positioned thumb-up behind the opponent's head, as this orientation fits naturally into the curve of the neck and resists the opponent's attempts to pull it away. A palm-down position allows the opponent to more easily reach over their head and dislodge the grip.
Final Compression Mechanics
The practitioner achieves maximum pressure by bringing the elbows together, pulling backward with both hands, and inhaling to tighten the grip. The key positioning is aligning the elbow with the opponent's nose and chin to target the carotid arteries rather than applying an ineffective air choke across the windpipe.
Complete Sequence Summary
The technique sequence flows from the over-under grip, to shoulder grab, to hand positioning, to the Italian driver placement behind the head, and finally to compression with aligned elbows. When executed properly, this method produces rapid unconsciousness through arterial compression rather than throat pressure.
Safety and Ethical Application
The rear naked choke represents a relatively safe and humane method of neutralizing an opponent compared to striking techniques. Proper execution with immediate release upon the opponent's tap or loss of consciousness ensures the technique remains a controlled grappling submission.
How to Apply TIGHTEST Rear Naked Choke for MMA/BJJ
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction and Overview
- •Starting Position: Over-Under Control
- •Hand Positioning Strategy
- •Two-Step Transition Movement
Here's a great BJJ tutorial from Stephan Kesting, who teaches how to properly apply a rear naked choke and make it extremely tight. More BJJ From Stephen►https://www.youtube.com/user/StephanKesting Subscribe to fightTIPS►http://bit.ly/1APnzvw FOLLOW: Facebook | http://bit.ly/fightTIPSFacebook Twitter | http://bit.ly/fightTIPSTwitter Instagram | http://bit.ly/fightTIPSInstagram
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard rear naked choke?
This video covers introduction and overview, starting position: over-under control, hand positioning strategy. It provides detailed instruction from fightTIPS.
How long does it take to learn standard rear naked choke?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard rear naked choke?
The technique sequence flows from the over-under grip, to shoulder grab, to hand positioning, to the Italian driver placement behind the head, and finally to compression with aligned elbows. When executed properly, this method produces rapid unconsciousness through arterial compression rather than throat pressure.
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