The Von Flue choke is a defense against the rear naked choke applied from back control position. Instead of escaping, you counter-attack with your own choke using the opponent's arm placement against them.
As your opponent applies the rear naked choke from back control, they position their arms around your neck. The Von Flue counter uses the space created by their arm placement to apply a counter-choke.
Grab opponent's arm that's going across your neck. Push it upward and tight against their own neck. Use your other hand to clasp and reinforce the grip. Apply pressure by driving their arm further into their own neck.
The Von Flue is most effective when applied early as opponent locks in the rear naked choke, before they fully secure the grip. However, even if they have partial grip, you can still execute this counter.
If you're applying the rear naked choke and your opponent attempts the Von Flue, immediately move your choking arm to a different position (over/under arm or gable grip) to prevent them from controlling your arm.
Most practitioners develop functional competency with Von Flue Choke Guide within 3β6 months of consistent drilling. Mastery β the ability to execute reliably in live rolling against resisting opponents β typically takes 1β2 years.
Yes. Von Flue Choke Guide is part of the core BJJ curriculum and taught at all belt levels. Beginners should focus on the fundamental mechanics and concepts before refining advanced entries.
3β5 times per week is ideal for rapid skill acquisition. Even 10 focused repetitions per session compounds over time β consistency matters more than volume.
BJJ is a linked system. Von Flue Choke Guide flows naturally to and from related positions. Study transitions in both directions to build a complete positional game.