How to Execute the Choke to Choke Transition in Sambo Martial Arts

The Sambo martial art was created in the 1920s in the former Soviet Union as a form of military hand-to-hand combat. Sambo is designed for throws and holds that force the opponent to the ground. A choke-to-choke transition in Sambo is a move that changes from one choke position to another.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Start in a basic cross-choke position. One hand reaches across your opponent's body and grasps the top of his shirt by the neck. This is meant to immobilize.
2. Lean into the opponent with your shoulder. When she blocks the choke, unwrap your legs and shift your weight back. This gives you more room to move in the transition.
3. Reach diagonally over the opponent's shoulder with the other hand to the opponent's back. The opponent's head is now in your armpit. This pushes your opponent into a vulnerable position.
4. Grab his shirt by the small of the back and push him into you. This gives you the advantage in the match.
5. Wrap your legs around the opponent and force her to tap out. Squeeze her with your legs and arm to force the tap out.
6. Practice this choke transition until it becomes second nature.