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TechniqueGuardDeveloping

Triangle choke

A strangle formed by the legs around the neck and one trapped arm.

How to read it

What this entry helps you see

The triangle uses the legs to close a strangle around the neck and one shoulder. Angle and the position of the trapped arm matter more than leg strength. It is a controlled choke. Build the lock in steps and give your partner room to tap.

Key steps

  1. From guard, control both of the top player wrists and pin one arm across your centerline.
  2. Elevate your hips and bring one leg over the shoulder of the arm that is inside.
  3. Lock that shin behind your other knee to form the triangle.
  4. Angle your hips out to one side and pull the trapped arm across your body.
  5. Curl your legs down, raise your hips, and apply the strangle slowly.
  6. Release immediately on any tap.

Study cues

  1. Keep one arm in and one arm out before locking the legs
  2. Create an angle rather than squaring up
  3. Finish by controlling the head and adjusting the shin across the neck

Common errors

  1. Trying to finish square to the partner
  2. Locking the legs before adjusting the trapped arm
  3. Pulling the head without changing the angle