Introduction & Setup
The rear naked choke is one of the most effective submission techniques in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA. To begin, the instructor assumes a position on the opponent's back with control established through a seatbelt grip—one arm wrapped around the torso with the hand placed on the opposite hip.
Head Positioning & Safety
The instructor's head must remain tight against the opponent's shoulder to prevent strikes, eye pokes, or other defensive attacks. Proper head placement is a critical safety measure that protects the attacking position from being compromised.
Initial Arm Placement
The top arm reaches as deep as possible across the opponent's chest, with the hand cutting toward the top of the deltoid muscle. This hand placement provides the foundation for transitioning into the final choking position.
Common Mistake: The Macarena Grip
A frequent error occurs when practitioners attempt to grab their own bicep in the traditional choking position. This flawed technique allows the opponent to control the attacker's arm, preventing proper choke application and risking arm hyperextension.
Correct Hand Positioning
The correct technique involves placing the bottom hand behind the opponent's head and gripping the attacker's own deltoid-bicep area. The fingers should be loosely placed on the bicep rather than tightly interlocked, allowing for proper pressure distribution.
Pressure Application
The choke is executed by squeezing the elbows together and puffing the chest outward simultaneously. This movement applies compression across three planes of the neck—both sides and the back—creating a powerful submission that restricts blood flow.
Execution Summary
The complete sequence involves slipping fingers in behind the head, securing the grip on the bicep, then synchronizing elbow compression with chest expansion. This coordinated motion generates the maximum pressure necessary for an effective rear naked choke submission.
How To Apply The Rear Naked Choke The Right Way
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction & Setup
- •Head Positioning & Safety
- •Initial Arm Placement
- •Common Mistake: The Macarena Grip
In this video, Mark from New Breed Training Center and #1 ranked Black Belt BJJ competitor in his division, demonstrates the proper way to execute the rear naked choke. For more content visit: https://tacticalhyve.com Stay connected with us: Instagram: https://instagram.com/tacticalhyve Facebook: https://facebook.com/tacticalhyve *This video is for general educational and informational purposes only. What you do with this information is your responsibility. We encourage you to seek out professional instruction. Nothing replaces in-person training with a qualified professional to ensure you learn properly and train safely. #TACTICALHYVE #BJJ #MMA
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about classic rear naked choke?
This video covers introduction & setup, head positioning & safety, initial arm placement. It provides detailed instruction from Tactical Hyve.
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?
The choke is executed by squeezing the elbows together and puffing the chest outward simultaneously. This movement applies compression across three planes of the neck—both sides and the back—creating a powerful submission that restricts blood flow.
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