Introduction & Technique Overview
The Rear Naked Choke is one of the most fundamental and effective submissions in MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, yet many practitioners execute it incorrectly. This technique appears consistently across both sports and is essential for any serious grappler to master. The following guide breaks down the proper mechanics to maximize effectiveness and safety.
Initial Hand Positioning: The Over-Under
Begin behind the opponent with an over-and-under grip: the top hand comes over the shoulder while the bottom hand slides under the armpit. The top hand forms a fist, and the bottom hand clasps onto the fist with a grip on the wrist or meat of the hand. This initial grip protects the "killing hand" from being grabbed by the opponent.
Two-Step Shoulder Control Sequence
The transition requires a deliberate two-part movement to prevent the opponent from controlling the choking hand. First, transition from the under-armpit position by anchoring the hand on the opponent's shoulder—this distributes force away from arm strength alone. Second, drop the other hand to create a backstop at the throat, preventing the opponent from generating space.
The Italian Driver: Hand Placement Behind the Head
Instead of shooting the hand through in front of the face where it can be grabbed, slide the hand directly behind the opponent's head with a thumb-up orientation. This "Italian Driver" positioning keeps the hand hidden from defensive grabs and fits perfectly into the natural curve of the neck. The thumb-up grip is significantly harder to peel off than a palm-down position.
Elbow Alignment & Compression
Position both elbows in line with the opponent's chin and nose to target the carotid arteries on the sides of the neck rather than applying an inefficient air choke across the trachea. Bring the elbows together by narrowing their distance, then scissor them further by stacking one elbow over the other. Pull backward with both hands and inhale slightly to increase pressure.
Common Mistakes: Air Choke vs. Proper Execution
Placing the forearm across the front of the throat creates an air choke that causes pain but is slower to render unconsciousness than a properly aligned arterial choke. Correct elbow positioning directly over the chin and nose ensures pressure on the carotid arteries, which produce unconsciousness far more efficiently. This technical distinction significantly improves submission speed and reliability.
Complete Technique Summary & Sequence
The complete sequence consists of: establishing the over-under grip, transitioning grip to the shoulder, dropping the choking hand to create a backstop, executing the Italian Driver behind the head, aligning elbows with chin and nose, and finally squeezing with elbows together while pulling and inhaling. When executed correctly, this sequence should produce a tap or unconsciousness quickly and safely. Always monitor the opponent and release immediately upon submission or loss of consciousness.
How to Apply TIGHTEST Rear Naked Choke for MMA/BJJ
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction & Technique Overview
- •Initial Hand Positioning: The Over-Under
- •Two-Step Shoulder Control Sequence
- •The Italian Driver: Hand Placement Behind the Head
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about classic rear naked choke?
This video covers introduction & technique overview, initial hand positioning: the over-under, two-step shoulder control sequence. It provides detailed instruction from fightTIPS.
How long does it take to learn classic 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 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing classic rear naked choke?
Placing the forearm across the front of the throat creates an air choke that causes pain but is slower to render unconsciousness than a properly aligned arterial choke. Correct elbow positioning directly over the chin and nose ensures pressure on the carotid arteries, which produce unconsciousness far more efficiently. This technical distinction significantly improves submission speed and reliability.
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