Technique of the Month

Triangle Choke (Sankaku-jime)

The Triangle Choke is one of the most effective submissions in the Jujitsu arsenal. It is most commonly utilized from the guard position but can be deployed from almost any other ground position.

The triangle choke traps your opponent’s head and one arm between the triangular (figure-four) pattern of your legs to produce a powerful and quick acting strangulation of your opponent by cutting off the carotid artery blood flow. This forces your opponent to either tap out or pass out within seconds.

This technique is highly effective and can be deployed quickly during a grappling match. If properly executed the triangle choke is very difficult to defend against.

The technique of the month should only be practiced under the close supervision of a qualified martial arts instructor.

Use extreme caution in practicing this technique. Always allow your training partner the ability to tap out. Immediately release the hold should your opponent tap out or lose consciousness.

Triangle Choke (Jim Kodzis White Gi) (Rob Magao Blue Gi)

1. Rob is trapped inside Jim’s closed guard.

2. Rob attempts to pass Jim’s guard by reaching under Jim’s right leg and prepares to “stack” Jim on his shoulders.

3. Jim recognizes an opportunity to deploy the triangle choke and immediately throws his right leg over Rob’s neck and pulls Rob’s right arm, which is caught, between Jim’s legs.

4. With Rob’s head and one arm caught between Jim’s legs, Jim pulls the trapped arm across his stomach (this is key to a successful Triangle Choke).

5. Jim then grabs his right foot with his left hand and secures it tightly under his left knee. This creates the triangular (figure-four) lock and begins shutting down the blood flow to Rob’s head.

6. Having the triangle locked in place, Jim now pulls down on Rob’s head with both hands to prevent him from escaping and adding to the pressure of the choke.

7. Rob is now forced to tap out or pass out.

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