How to Do a Triangle Choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

A triangle choke is a powerful move in the martial art discipline of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Use the triangle choke when you are lying with your back against the mat and your opponent is trying to get on top of you for a pin.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Sparring partner

1. Execute the triangle choke when your opponent tries to pin you to the mat by coming up between your legs. As your opponent comes up below you, lift your hips so that your legs can wrap around his waist.
2. Lift your right leg up and wrap it behind the back of your opponent's neck. Loosen your grip and open your hips so that you left leg is clear of your opponent's reach and ready to come up and lock with the right leg.
3. Grab your opponent's right arm and press it against his body so that he cannot strike from the inside. Use both of your hands, if necessary, to exert adequate force.
4. Bring your right leg down and toward you, against the back of your opponent's neck. Keep your shin horizontal to apply maximum pressure to your opponent's neck muscles.
5. Swing your left leg up and over your right leg and lock your two legs together. This is the essence of the triangle choke.
6. Pull your opponent's right arm out toward your right shoulder as you apply pressure to his neck with your legs. At this point, you can roll over on your side, bringing your opponent's head down to the mat until he surrenders. Or simply perform the triangle choke in the original position until your opponent is defeated.
7. Practice the triangle choke until you can complete the move swiftly and with precision. Your greatest challenge will be to fold the crook or your left knee over your right shin. You may have to use stretching exercises to loosen your hips to the point where you can do this move without discomfort.

Tips & Warnings

• The success of using the triangle choke to subdue an opponent will depend upon your speed, and whether you can execute the move before your opponent can grab you by your lapels and force your shoulders to the mat.