Introduction to the Rear Naked Strangle
The rear naked strangle is one of jiu-jitsu's most fundamental techniques, yet many practitioners struggle to finish it effectively. This instructional segment addresses the common frustration of achieving dominant back position only to fail at the final submission. Understanding the mechanics of this technique is essential for translating positional control into successful finishes.
Understanding the Anatomical Target
The rear naked strangle functions as a blood choke, attacking the carotid arteries rather than obstructing the airway. The human neck, measuring 14-18 inches in circumference, contains two carotid arteries, two vertebral arteries, jugular veins, and the trachea packed closely together. Due to this tight spacing, any pressure on the neck structure will inevitably compromise multiple targets simultaneously.
Strangulation vs. Choking: The Critical Difference
Strangulation, which cuts off blood supply, causes unconsciousness in 5-10 seconds, while choking, which obstructs airway, allows consciousness for minutes. The rear naked strangle's effectiveness relies on its strangulation mechanism rather than air obstruction. Because anatomical structures are tightly packed in the neck, the faster strangulation effect occurs long before any asphyxiation effect takes hold.
Position Setup: Kneeling Behind the Opponent
Proper positioning establishes the foundation for effective strangulation application. The instructor demonstrates the technique from a kneeling position behind the opponent for clarity, though actual combat application occurs seated with both hooks in place. This elevated position better illustrates the mechanical principles of the strangle without obscuring key details.
Preventing Rotational Escape Through Control Placement
The most common mistake in rear strangle attempts is positioning both arms over the top, which allows the opponent to rotate freely and escape. Effective control requires one arm positioned underneath and one over the top, creating an elbow block across the shoulder. This asymmetrical arm positioning makes rotational escape extremely difficult, even without leg hooks.
Control Grip Options: Seatbelt vs. Open Hands
Practitioners can establish rotational control using either a locked-hands seatbelt grip or an open-handed one-on-one grip. The seatbelt grip places an elbow in front of the shoulder with the hands clasped together, while the open grip achieves similar results with separate hands. Both approaches effectively prevent the opponent from rotating inside the attacker's arms.
Managing Chin Defense
A defensive opponent will tuck their chin downward to prevent strangulation, as distance between chin and chest is critical for effective carotid compression. The attacker's primary objective is to create space between the opponent's chin and their chest to access the carotid arteries. Achieving this separation through proper hand positioning and pressure application is essential for successful finish.
How To Perform The Perfect Rear Naked Choke by John Danaher
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Rear Naked Strangle
- •Understanding the Anatomical Target
- •Strangulation vs. Choking: The Critical Difference
- •Position Setup: Kneeling Behind the Opponent
How To Perform The Perfect Rear Naked Choke by John Danaher - Click Here To Check Out John Danaher's Instructional Videos - https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/fighter_john-danaher - - For all your BJJ Gear and Apparel Needs Visit - https://store.bjjfanatics.com/ - Are you a BJJ Fanatics Insider? If not, you are missing out! Join now at: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/insiders-club - "Bernardo Faria is a 5x World Champion. Bernardo started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Juiz de Fora - MG, Brazil at the age of 14 in 2001. After receiving the Black Belt from his first instructor Ricardo Marques in 2008, He moved to Sao Paulo to join BJJ legend Fabio Gurgel and his Alliance team. After many years of training and winning many major titles, Bernardo moved to NYC in 2013 to train and teach at Marcelo Garcia Academy. In 2015 Bernardo achieved his dream of winning the IBJJF World Championship Open class title and his division, doing the double Gold and becoming the 1st in the IBJJF Ranking and also choosed as the best athlete of 2015. Bernardo Faria has now taken on the mission to share some of the lessons, techniques, experiences and more that he has learned along in his 16 years and counting as a BJJ student, teacher and world class competitor. Subscribe to his channel, and join him in this amazing BJJ Journey. We promise that you will also improve your BJJ with his awesome Video Lessons, Episodes of his "5 Minutes BJJ Talk" and more... www.fujisports.com - 15% OFF Coupon Code: FARIA15 www.bjjfanatics.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: YOUTUBEFARIA www.fujimats.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: FARIAMAT10 http://bernardofaria.com https://www.facebook.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://www.instagram.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://twitter.com/bernardofariajj
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about classic rear naked choke?
This video covers introduction to the rear naked strangle, understanding the anatomical target, strangulation vs. choking: the critical difference. It provides detailed instruction from Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics.
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?
Practitioners can establish rotational control using either a locked-hands seatbelt grip or an open-handed one-on-one grip. The seatbelt grip places an elbow in front of the shoulder with the hands clasped together, while the open grip achieves similar results with separate hands. Both approaches effectively prevent the opponent from rotating inside the attacker's arms.
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