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Rear Naked Choke Details

Master the fundamentals and advanced strategies of this essential BJJ technique.

🥋 Intermediate ~5 min read

Contents

Introduction

Rear Naked Choke Details is a crucial technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you're a blue belt working on consistency or an advanced student refining details, this guide provides comprehensive coverage of the position, common mistakes, and advanced variations.

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Key Principles

1

Foundation

Start with proper positioning and control. Strong fundamentals are essential for success.

2

Control

Maintain dominant control before advancing to the next stage of the technique.

3

Finalization

Complete the technique with proper pressure and timing for maximum effectiveness.

💡 Pro Tip: Focus on the small details that separate good practitioners from great ones. Consistency in fundamentals will dramatically improve your results on the mat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing the technique without establishing proper control
Losing focus on posture and balance
Failing to recognize defensive counters
Not adjusting to different body types and styles
Training with poor partners or ignoring safety protocols

Training Progression

Build your skills progressively through focused drilling and live sparring:

Week 1-2: Understand the mechanics and ideal positions
Week 3-4: Practice combinations and chains
Week 5-6: Study defenses and counters
Week 7-8: Apply in live rolling

Advanced Variations

Once you've mastered the basics, explore advanced variations and combinations that work at higher levels of competition. These variations allow you to adapt to different opponents and situations.

Related Techniques

Explore related positions and techniques to build a complete game:

Conclusion

Mastering Rear Naked Choke Details requires consistent practice and attention to detail. Start with fundamentals, drill regularly, and gradually add complexity as you progress. With dedication and proper instruction, you'll develop a powerful tool for your BJJ game.

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More Questions

How do I get my arm deeper for the Rear Naked Choke?

To get your arm deeper, focus on sinking your bicep under their carotid artery and driving your shoulder into their neck. You can achieve this by slightly shrimping your hips away or by using your free hand to pull their head closer.

What if my opponent defends by tucking their chin?

If they tuck their chin, try to use your free hand to pry their chin up and away from their chest. Alternatively, you can try to slightly adjust the angle of your choke, aiming for the side of their neck, or even transition to a different submission if the chin tuck is too strong.

How do I prevent them from escaping once I have the Rear Naked Choke locked in?

To prevent escapes, maintain a strong grip and keep your elbows tight to your body. Ensure your hips are engaged, and prevent them from creating space by driving your shoulder into their neck and using your legs to control their hips and prevent them from turning.

Common BJJ Problems & FAQ

Q: Why does my Rear Naked Choke feel weak and my partner can easily escape when I try to finish it from the back?

Your choke likely lacks compression because you are not properly locking your bicep to your carotid artery and the back of their neck. Ensure your choking arm's bicep is pressed firmly against their neck, and your other hand is cupping the back of your own head, creating a vise-like grip that crushes both carotid arteries.

Q: How can I prevent my opponent from turning into me when I have the Rear Naked Choke locked in?

To prevent them from turning in, maintain hip pressure by keeping your hips heavy and close to their hips, preventing them from creating space. Simultaneously, use your legs to control their hips and prevent them from bridging or posturing up, which would allow them to turn.

Q: My neck feels strained and sore after attempting the Rear Naked Choke, what am I doing wrong biomechanically?

You are likely applying pressure with your arm directly onto your own trachea instead of the carotid arteries. The finishing mechanics involve the bicep of your choking arm compressing one carotid artery and the forearm of that same arm pressing the other carotid artery, with your head providing the opposing force, not your own neck muscles.

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