Rear Naked Choke: The Ultimate Guide

The rear naked choke, often hailed as one of the most effective submissions in martial arts, is a technique every grappler should master. Whether you're a seasoned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner or just starting in mixed martial arts (MMA), understanding the nuances of this choke can significantly elevate your game. This guide dives deep into the mechanics, variations, defenses, and strategies associated with the rear naked choke, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this powerful submission. So, let's get started and unravel the secrets of the rear naked choke, ensuring you're well-equipped to apply it effectively in training and competition.

What is a Rear Naked Choke?

The rear naked choke is a blood choke applied from the opponent's back, utilizing the attacker's arm to constrict the carotid arteries on either side of the neck. The term "naked" refers to the fact that no gi or clothing is used to aid in the submission, relying solely on the attacker's limbs. The technique involves wrapping one arm around the opponent’s neck, securing a bicep across one carotid artery, and using the forearm or wrist of the other arm to press against the other carotid artery. When applied correctly, the rear naked choke can lead to rapid unconsciousness due to the restriction of blood flow to the brain. This makes it a highly effective and decisive submission in various combat sports, including BJJ, MMA, and submission grappling. The rear naked choke's versatility and effectiveness have solidified its place as a fundamental technique in any grappler's arsenal, making its mastery essential for success.

Mechanics of the Rear Naked Choke

Understanding the precise mechanics of the rear naked choke is crucial for its successful execution. First, you need to establish a dominant position on your opponent’s back, securing your hooks inside their thighs to maintain control and prevent them from escaping. Next, the critical step is to get one arm around their neck, with your bicep deeply embedded on one side of their neck, targeting the carotid artery. The other arm then comes over the shoulder, with your forearm or wrist pressing against the other side of their neck. Clasp your hands together, forming a tight seal, and ensure your grip is snug to maximize the pressure. The final step involves squeezing your elbows together and pulling back with your entire body, applying even pressure to both sides of the neck. It’s essential to maintain a tight body lock and keep your chest close to your opponent’s back to prevent them from creating space and escaping the choke. Practicing these mechanics diligently will improve your ability to execute the rear naked choke efficiently and effectively.

Variations of the Rear Naked Choke

Several variations of the rear naked choke exist, each with subtle adjustments that can enhance its effectiveness based on the situation and the opponent's reaction. The most common variations include:

• Standard Rear Naked Choke: As described above, this involves one arm around the neck and the other arm locking in place to increase pressure.
• Arm Triangle Variation: Instead of clasping your hands, you can secure an arm triangle by trapping your opponent’s arm across their neck, adding extra pressure.
• Body Triangle Variation: Instead of using both hooks, you secure a body triangle around your opponent’s torso, which gives you more control and stability while applying the choke.
• One-Handed Rear Naked Choke: This variation is used when one arm is compromised. It involves using one arm to apply pressure while using the other to control the opponent’s posture.

Each variation has its advantages and can be adapted to different scenarios, providing you with a range of options to secure the submission. Understanding these variations will make you a more versatile and adaptable grappler.

Defenses Against the Rear Naked Choke

Knowing how to defend against the rear naked choke is just as important as knowing how to apply it. Several effective defense strategies can help you escape this dangerous submission. The primary defense involves preventing your opponent from getting their hooks in and establishing back control. Keep your elbows tight to your body and maintain a strong posture to make it difficult for them to secure a dominant position. If your opponent does manage to get their arm around your neck, immediately tuck your chin to protect your carotid arteries. Use your hands to peel their grip away and create space to turn into them, disrupting their control. Another strategy is to grab their choking arm and try to pull it away while simultaneously turning to relieve pressure. If you are in a body triangle, focus on breaking the lock to create space and improve your mobility. Regularly practicing these defenses will enhance your ability to recognize and counter the rear naked choke, significantly reducing your risk of submission.

Strategies for Setting Up the Rear Naked Choke

Successfully executing the rear naked choke requires more than just technical proficiency; it also involves smart strategies to set up the submission. One effective strategy is to use positional control to your advantage. First, work to establish a dominant position, such as mount or back control, where you have a significant advantage. From there, use strikes or threats to distract your opponent and create openings for the choke. For example, a few well-placed strikes can cause them to turn their head, giving you the opportunity to slip your arm around their neck. Another strategy involves chaining submissions together. Attempting one submission, such as an armbar or triangle choke, can force your opponent to defend, creating vulnerabilities that you can exploit to transition to the rear naked choke. Additionally, pay attention to your opponent’s reactions and tendencies. If they consistently defend in a particular way, you can anticipate their movements and set up the choke accordingly. Mastering these setup strategies will significantly increase your success rate with the rear naked choke.

Drills to Improve Your Rear Naked Choke

Consistent drilling is essential for mastering the rear naked choke. Here are some effective drills to incorporate into your training routine:

1. Back Control Drills: Focus on maintaining back control while your partner attempts to escape. This drill improves your ability to secure and maintain a dominant position, which is crucial for setting up the choke.
2. Grip Breaking Drills: Practice breaking your partner’s grips when they attempt to defend the choke. This drill enhances your ability to create openings and maintain control.
3. Live Rolling: Incorporate the rear naked choke into your live rolling sessions. This allows you to apply the technique against resisting opponents and refine your timing and execution.
4. Positional Sparring: Start from a specific position, such as back control, and focus solely on securing the rear naked choke. This drill helps you develop your setup strategies and adapt to different reactions.

By consistently practicing these drills, you will develop the muscle memory, timing, and adaptability needed to execute the rear naked choke effectively in live situations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a solid understanding of the rear naked choke, it’s easy to fall into common traps that can hinder your success. One of the most frequent mistakes is failing to secure proper back control. Without solid hooks and a tight body lock, your opponent can easily escape. Another common error is not getting your choking arm deep enough around the neck. The bicep must be deeply embedded against the carotid artery to effectively restrict blood flow. Additionally, many practitioners fail to maintain proper posture and tightness throughout the submission. Leaning too far forward or allowing space between your body and your opponent’s back can compromise your control and allow them to escape. Another mistake is telegraphing your intentions, giving your opponent time to anticipate and defend. Instead, focus on smooth transitions and using misdirection to create openings. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on the fundamentals, you can significantly improve your success rate with the rear naked choke.

The Rear Naked Choke in MMA

The rear naked choke is a staple in mixed martial arts (MMA) due to its high success rate and decisive nature. Many MMA fighters have used this submission to secure impressive victories, showcasing its effectiveness in a real fight scenario. The ability to transition to the rear naked choke from various positions, such as back control or even standing, makes it a versatile weapon in an MMA fighter's arsenal. Fighters often use strikes to set up the choke, creating openings and vulnerabilities that allow them to slip their arm around the neck. The threat of a rear naked choke can also influence an opponent’s behavior, making them more cautious and predictable, which can be exploited to gain further advantages. Studying successful examples of the rear naked choke in MMA can provide valuable insights into its application and adaptation in a dynamic and unpredictable environment. The rear naked choke's proven track record in MMA underscores its importance as a fundamental technique for any aspiring fighter.

FAQ About Rear Naked Chokes

Here are some frequently asked questions about rear naked chokes:

Q: How long does it take to pass out from a rear naked choke? A: Typically, it takes between 8 to 12 seconds for someone to lose consciousness when a rear naked choke is applied correctly.

Q: Is the rear naked choke dangerous? A: When applied correctly, the rear naked choke is relatively safe, as it primarily restricts blood flow to the brain. However, it’s essential to apply the choke with control and release it immediately once the opponent taps out to avoid any potential injury.

Q: Can a beginner learn the rear naked choke? A: Yes, the rear naked choke is a fundamental technique that can be learned by beginners. However, it’s crucial to learn the proper mechanics and safety precautions under the guidance of a qualified instructor.

Q: What is the best grip for the rear naked choke? A: The most common and effective grip is the Gable grip, where you clasp your hands together to form a tight seal. However, some practitioners also use the S-grip or Figure-Four grip, depending on their preference and the situation.

Q: How do I improve my rear naked choke? A: Consistent drilling, live rolling, and studying successful examples of the choke in competition are essential for improving your rear naked choke. Additionally, focus on refining your technique, setup strategies, and defenses to become a well-rounded grappler.

Conclusion

The rear naked choke is a formidable submission that can significantly enhance your grappling skills. By understanding its mechanics, exploring its variations, mastering its defenses, and implementing effective setup strategies, you can become proficient in applying this technique in various combat sports. Remember, consistent drilling and attention to detail are key to mastering the rear naked choke. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, incorporating the rear naked choke into your training routine will undoubtedly elevate your game and make you a more dangerous and versatile grappler. Keep practicing, stay focused, and always prioritize safety to unlock the full potential of this powerful submission.