Introduction to the Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke is the most popular and effective submission in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA, applicable across all skill levels. This technique's effectiveness stems from its ability to restrict blood flow to the brain through compression of the carotid arteries, requiring only proper mechanics rather than exceptional strength.
Understanding the Physiology
The rear naked choke works by occluding the two carotid arteries that supply oxygenated blood to the brain. When compressed effectively, unconsciousness occurs within 6-8 seconds for conditioned athletes. Practitioners must exercise extreme caution, as maintaining pressure after unconsciousness can cause serious injury.
Establishing the Grip Setup
The foundational grip, known as the Mataleon or 'lion killer,' begins with the dominant arm wrapped around the opponent's neck with the elbow pit (the space between forearm and bicep) directly contacting the neck. The non-dominant hand grabs the bicep and shoulder area, while the other hand hooks low under the head, creating a locked position for maximum control.
Executing the Finish
Three simultaneous motions complete the submission: pushing the elbow downward into the chest, drawing the elbows together, and flexing the arms to create maximum pressure. The head should position against the opponent's head to prevent them from reaching the top hand, while a deep breath expands the attacker's chest to deepen the choke.
Common Mechanical Errors
Practitioners frequently position the elbow too high, creating a throat crush rather than an arterial choke. Additionally, maintaining only a finger grip on the bicep reduces squeezing power; the wrist should rest against the bicep for maximum control. The top hand must remain low behind the head and out of reach, not positioned high where it can be easily defended.
Pressure Application and Breathing
Successful execution requires downward elbow pressure similar to CPR compressions rather than lifting or 'hanging' the opponent, which reduces effectiveness. Practitioners should apply steady pressure at 50-70% effort rather than maximum force, allowing for sustained compression until the opponent taps or loses consciousness while preserving energy for continued competition.
Pressure Progression and Consistency
Rather than releasing and reapplying pressure, the compression should increase gradually and steadily from 50% to 80% intensity throughout the technique. Inconsistent pressure wastes energy and may allow the opponent to escape, whereas smooth, increasing pressure maintains control and conserves the attacker's stamina.
Defensive Positioning and Setup
In practical scenarios, opponents actively defend against the rear naked choke using blocking techniques rather than remaining passive. The seat belt grip, with the underhook hand securing the choke hand against the opponent's chest while driving the attacker's chest into their back, provides the optimal foundation. Falling to the underhook side offers superior choke options and easier finishing opportunities.
Countering the Baseball Bat Defense
Experienced opponents employ the baseball bat grip—holding the hands together with thumbs over fingers—to prevent choke application. Practitioners must develop countering strategies to neutralize this defense before attempting the final submission.
How to do the Rear Naked Choke in Jiu Jitsu | Jiu Jitsu Tutorial | BJJ Lessons
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Rear Naked Choke
- •Understanding the Physiology
- •Establishing the Grip Setup
- •Executing the Finish
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about classic rear naked choke?
This video covers introduction to the rear naked choke, understanding the physiology, establishing the grip setup. It provides detailed instruction from Matt Arroyo Jiu Jitsu .
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 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing classic rear naked choke?
In practical scenarios, opponents actively defend against the rear naked choke using blocking techniques rather than remaining passive. The seat belt grip, with the underhook hand securing the choke hand against the opponent's chest while driving the attacker's chest into their back, provides the optimal foundation. Falling to the underhook side offers superior choke options and easier finishing opportunities.
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