The triangle choke is a highly effective Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) submission technique that has been utilized successfully in both sport grappling competitions and real-life self-defense situations. This versatile move can be applied from various positions, offering practitioners a potent tool for controlling and submitting opponents. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the mechanics, setups, variations, and counters of the triangle choke, empowering both beginners and experienced grapplers to add this formidable technique to their arsenal.
The triangle choke is executed by wrapping one's legs around an opponent's neck and arm in a triangular configuration, thereby constricting blood flow to the brain and causing unconsciousness if applied correctly. The choke can be performed from the guard position, where the practitioner is on their back with their legs wrapped around their opponent's torso.
Establishing the Guard: Begin by pulling your opponent into your closed guard, maintaining control over their posture and positioning.
Creating Angles: Use hip movement and grips to create angles that facilitate the setup for the triangle choke. This may involve breaking your opponent's posture and controlling their arms.
Securing the Triangle: With one arm isolated, bring your leg across the back of your opponent's neck while simultaneously trapping their arm against your torso.
Locking the Triangle: Secure the triangle by clasping your ankle behind your knee and pulling down on your shin, creating pressure on your opponent's neck.
Variations:
Arm Triangle Choke: In this variation, the opponent's own arm acts as one side of the triangle, enhancing the choke's effectiveness.
Inverted Triangle Choke: This variation involves executing the triangle choke while inverted, often from positions such as the omoplata or from the back.
Counters:
Posture and Pressure: Maintaining good posture and applying pressure can make it difficult for your opponent to set up the triangle choke.
Stacking and Passing: By stacking your opponent and passing their guard, you can alleviate pressure from the triangle choke and potentially transition to a more advantageous position.
