In the realm of grappling arts, the triangle choke stands as an iconic submission hold that has graced the mats of numerous martial arts disciplines. Its deceptive simplicity belies a profound level of technical nuance, making it both an effective self-defense technique and a formidable tool in competitive grappling. Whether you’re a seasoned grappler or embarking on your grappling journey, mastering the triangle choke can significantly enhance your arsenal.
To initiate a triangle choke, the attacker assumes a position known as the “triangle.” This involves wrapping their legs around the opponent’s neck and securing their feet together behind the opponent’s head. The attacker then places their arms under the opponent’s armpits and grips their own hands together in a “closed guard.” By maintaining this position and applying steady pressure, the attacker restricts the opponent’s breathing and blood flow to the brain, eventually leading to submission.
While the basic principles of the triangle choke are relatively straightforward, its execution requires a combination of strength, timing, and technical proficiency. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of performing a triangle choke, exploring the subtle hand positions, body adjustments, and situational variations that can make all the difference between success and failure. We will also discuss the defensive strategies that opponents can employ to escape or counter the triangle, providing a comprehensive understanding of this fundamental submission hold.
Variations and Modifications
Wide Triangle Choke
The wide triangle choke is performed from the standard triangle position, but with the attacker’s elbows positioned wider apart. This variation provides more leverage and makes it easier to secure the choke, but it also leaves the attacker more exposed to counters.
Narrow Triangle Choke
The narrow triangle choke is performed from the standard triangle position, but with the attacker’s elbows positioned closer together. This variation makes it more difficult to secure the choke, but it also provides more protection for the attacker.
Reverse Triangle Choke
The reverse triangle choke is performed from the opposite side of the standard triangle position. The attacker’s legs are wrapped around the opponent’s head in the same manner, but the attacker’s body is facing in the opposite direction.
Overhead Triangle Choke
The overhead triangle choke is performed by wrapping the legs around the opponent’s head from above. This variation is particularly effective against opponents who are larger or stronger than the attacker.
Double Triangle Choke
The double triangle choke is performed by simultaneously locking in a triangle choke from both sides. This variation is extremely powerful and can be difficult to escape.
Standing Triangle Choke
The standing triangle choke is performed while standing, with the attacker’s legs wrapped around the opponent’s head from behind. This variation is less common but can be effective against unsuspecting opponents.
Armbar Triangle
The armbar triangle is a combination of an armbar and a triangle choke. The attacker wraps their legs around the opponent’s head in the same manner as a standard triangle choke, but also applies an armbar to one of the opponent’s arms. This variation can be devastating if applied correctly.
| Variation |
Description |
| Wide Triangle Choke |
Elbows positioned wider apart for more leverage. |
| Narrow Triangle Choke |
Elbows positioned closer together for more protection. |
| Reverse Triangle Choke |
Legs wrapped around the head from the opposite side. |
| Overhead Triangle Choke |
Legs wrapped around the head from above. |
| Double Triangle Choke |
Two triangle chokes locked in simultaneously. |
| Standing Triangle Choke |
Performed while standing. |
| Armbar Triangle |
Combination of an armbar and a triangle choke. |
Safety Considerations
1. Ensure Adequate Training
Seek guidance from a qualified instructor before attempting a triangle choke. Improper technique can result in serious injuries to yourself or your partner.
2. Check for Injuries
Inspect your partner for any pre-existing injuries, especially to the neck, spine, or shoulders. Avoid applying a choke if any concerns arise.
3. Communicate Clearly
Establish clear communication with your partner before performing the choke. Inform them of your intentions and monitor their response throughout the maneuver.
4. Use Caution with Beginners
Approach triangle chokes with extra caution when working with inexperienced partners. Ensure they fully understand the technique and have adequate control.
5. No Wrist Locking
Avoid using wrist locks in conjunction with triangle chokes. This can put unnecessary strain on the wrist and increase the risk of injury.
6. Monitor Breathing
Pay close attention to your partner’s breathing throughout the choke. Release the hold immediately if their breathing becomes labored or restricted.
7. Escape Mechanisms
Ensure both you and your partner know the proper escape mechanisms for triangle chokes. Communication and understanding are crucial in preventing injury.
8. Seek Medical Attention When Necessary
If your partner experiences any discomfort, pain, or injury during or after a triangle choke, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or headaches should not be ignored.
| Injury Symptoms |
Actions |
| Neck pain, numbness, or headaches |
Stop the choke and seek medical attention immediately |
| Shoulder pain or dislocation |
Release the choke and consult a medical professional |
| Wrist pain or injury |
Avoid locking the wrist and seek medical advice if necessary |
Practice and Proficiency
The Triangle Choke requires consistent practice to master and can be effectively practiced with a training partner or using a grappling dummy. As you gain proficiency, you’ll enhance your technique and become more comfortable applying it in various situations.
9. Control and Submission
Once you have secured the Triangle Choke position, control is paramount to ensure the submission. Here’s a detailed breakdown of essential control techniques to complete the choke effectively:
| Step |
Description |
|
Hip Control
|
Press your hip against your opponent’s leg to prevent them from escaping and destabilizing the choke.
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|
Head Control
|
Keep your opponent’s head in a neutral position, preventing them from tucking their chin or turning to relieve pressure.
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Arm Control
|
Trap your opponent’s arm on the side they’re facing, securing it against your body to prevent them from breaking the hold.
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Leg Control
|
Ensure your opponent’s free leg is tucked under your leg on the side they’re facing, restricting their movement and preventing them from escaping.
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By maintaining control over your opponent’s key body parts, you can effectively apply pressure to the carotid artery and induce the submission.
How to Perform a Triangle Choke
The triangle choke is a powerful and versatile chokehold that can be used from a variety of positions. It is a blood choke, meaning that it restricts blood flow to the brain, causing the opponent to lose consciousness.
To perform a triangle choke, follow these steps:
- Start by wrapping your arms around the opponent’s neck from behind.
- Cross your hands over each other and clasp them together.
- Pull your opponent’s head down and towards your chest.
- Squeeze your arms together to create pressure on the opponent’s neck.
- Hold the choke until the opponent taps out or loses consciousness.
People Also Ask
What are some variations of the triangle choke?
There are many variations of the triangle choke, including the triangle from guard, the triangle from mount, and the inverted triangle. Each variation has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to learn and practice all of them.
How do I defend against a triangle choke?
There are several ways to defend against a triangle choke, including:
– Pushing the opponent’s hips away
– Tucking your chin to your chest
– Extending your legs
– Reversing the choke
What is the difference between a triangle choke and a rear-naked choke?
The triangle choke and the rear-naked choke are both blood chokes, but they are applied from different positions. The triangle choke is applied from behind the opponent, while the rear-naked choke is applied from the back. The triangle choke is generally considered to be more powerful than the rear-naked choke, but it is also more difficult to apply.
