This week on Gracie Barra Blog we are looking at one of the most versatile and iconic submissions in jiu-jitsu: the Triangle Choke

The Triangle is one of those key techniques of jiu-jitsu that is applicable to all of the modalities of the art: no-gi, sport bjj with the kimono, professional MMA and self defense.

When we mention the Triangle Choke, most of us immediately picture the basic Triangle Choke from the guard. But as we will see in this video technique feature, the triangle has many variations that creative jiu-jitsu fighters can explore.

While the basis principle of using ones leg strength and angles to choke the opponent using their own arm against the neck, there are many different ways to get into the position and configure the legs.

Let’s take a look at some Triangle Choke variations as taught by some of the top Gracie Barra instructors.

1) Self Defense on the ground using triangle attack

The best place to start is the traditional Triangle choke from your guard. As Prof. Flavio shows, the triangle is in fact a valid technique to use in a self defense situation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgZlxIYsZ6k

2)Inverted triangle from bottom / Triângulo Invertido

World Champion Prof. Braulio Estima is perhaps the best known proponent of the inverted triangle. The different configuration of the legs from the traditional triangle choke from guard should open your mind to the possibilities and variations of the Triangle Choke from many different positions!

3) Triangle entry from back mount / Triângulo partindo das costas

This Triangle entry from the back mount is a great example of the creativity of Gracie Barra jiu-jitsu. I include this on any tutorial on the Triangle choke as it opens your mind to how you can hunt for the triangle in even unlikely positions.

4) Inverted Triangle against Turtle / Triângulo Invertido

This is a common attack in international judo where competitors often go to Turtle to avoid being pinned. Note how Prof. Carlos rolls his opponent in order to cinch the triangle with his legs.

 

5) Triangle from the back / Triângulo partindo da pegada das Costas

I love this technique! Prof. Flavio Almeida teaches how to secure a triangle variation from the rear mount. You may have seen this move used in a fight scene in the movie “Black Panther”?

 

What is YOUR favorite Triangle Choke technique or entry?

See also on Gracie Barra : Attacking From The Mount

GB Technique : Attacking From The Mount

 

Credits: Mark Mullen

Gracie Barra Black belt based in Asia