The Arm Triangle – Head and Arm Choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

We’re going over the arm triangle choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, also known as the head and arm choke, detailing the necessary positioning, grips, and techniques to effectively apply this submission move.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that emphasizes ground fighting and submission holds. One of the most effective submissions from a pinning position in BJJ is the arm triangle choke, also known as the head and arm choke. This technique requires good positioning and control over your opponent. In this guide, we will explore how to effectively execute the arm triangle choke.

Understanding the Position

Before attempting the arm triangle choke, it is crucial to have passed your opponent’s guard. This position allows you to gain head control, which is essential for the choke. Here are some suggested steps to achieve this position:

1. Establish Head Control: As you engage with your partner, they may attempt to push you away. Use this opportunity to slip past their elbow and gain control under their arm on the far side.
2. Grip and Pin: Once you have control, grip their arm and pin it against their face. This will help you maintain head control and set up for the choke.

Transitioning to the Choke

There are two primary methods to transition into the arm triangle choke:

Method 1: Sliding Technique

• Slide with Your Bottom Leg: Begin by sliding your bottom leg or far leg to step over your partner’s belly, followed by your top leg. This prevents your partner from using their legs to grab yours and re-establish a defensive guard.
• Lock Your Arms: For added control, lock your arms together in a gable grip. This will help you maintain pressure as switch sides and go to the “belly down” position.

Method 2: Jump over

• Jump to the other side: This method works if you are a little more athletic. By jumping to the other side, you can quickly switch to a better finishing position. The downside to this method is it opens you up to getting put back into a defensive guard if the bottom player catches your legs as you jump over. So, there is a risk of doing a flashier, prettier move to the other side.

Finishing the Choke

Once you have established the position, you can begin to finish the choke:

1. Maintain Head Control: If your opponent tries to turn away, grab their neck to keep them pinned down. This is crucial for applying the choke effectively.
2. Belly Down Position: Use the gable grip and belly down technique to tighten the choke. If necessary, adjust your grip to ensure a tighter hold.
3. Walking the Hand: If your opponent pushes up on their elbow, bring your hand under their head and walk it through to maintain control.
4. Final Adjustments: You can also lift your hand under their armpit and walk it up, ensuring your head is positioned behind their armpit for maximum leverage.

Additional Techniques

To enhance the effectiveness of the arm triangle choke, consider these additional techniques:

• Knee in the Sternum: For added pressure, you can hop up and place your knee in your opponent’s sternum. This can be a powerful way to secure the choke.
• Executioner Technique: Inspired by Eddie Bravo, this technique involves setting up the choke in a way that maximizes your power and control.