Advanced Back Attacks in BJJ: Finishing Systems

The back position is the highest-scoring position in BJJ competition, and for good reason — the attacker controls everything while the defender has no direct offensive options. Advanced back attack systems build multiple simultaneous threats.

Seatbelt Control Mechanics

Proper seatbelt control is the foundation of all back attacks. The arm configuration determines both control quality and submission access.

Standard Seatbelt

• Top arm crosses over the shoulder and chest
• Bottom arm hooks under the armpit
• Hands grip together (gable grip or palm-to-palm)
• Both hooks in, feet pointing outward, not crossing

Seatbelt Variations

• High seatbelt (over both shoulders): Access to collar choke, less escape-proof
• Body triangle: Replace hooks with figure-four of the legs, extremely stable
• Rear mount with hooks: Standard control, versatile attack options

Bow and Arrow Choke

The bow and arrow is arguably the most powerful choke in gi BJJ. It uses the collar plus leg control for exponential leverage.

Step-by-Step Execution

• Establish seatbelt control with both hooks
• Obtain deep cross-collar grip with the top hand (4 fingers in)
• Use your bottom hand to pull opponent's same-side elbow
• Extend your top leg, hooking your foot under opponent's near knee
• Drop bottom shoulder to the mat while pulling the elbow
• Arch your back like a drawn bow — the leg kick creates the choke's power

Common Mistakes

• Not getting the collar deep enough — hand should grip at the base of the skull
• Pulling the elbow across instead of down
• Forgetting to extend the top leg for the "bow" effect

Rear Naked Choke (RNC) Mechanics

The RNC is BJJ and MMA's most iconic finishing technique. Proper mechanics require chin-to-neck contact for the choke to cut blood flow.

Blade of the Forearm vs. Crook of the Elbow

• The blade of the forearm goes across the throat (tracheal pressure)
• The crook of the elbow aligns with the carotid arteries
• Optimal is the crook of the elbow at the trachea — compresses both carotids
• The non-choking arm posts behind the opponent's head for amplification

Armbar from Back

When the opponent defends the choke by tucking their chin or posting their arm, the armbar becomes available.

Armbar Entry from Seatbelt

• Opponent posts their arm on your forearm to block the choke attempt
• Capture that arm by closing your elbow on it
• Release one hook, swing your leg over their shoulder
• Extend hips for armbar, control the wrist

Back Retention Strategies

Finishing from the back requires maintaining the position when the opponent tries to escape. Understanding escape patterns allows you to stay ahead.

• Shrimp escape prevention: Keep your chest glued to their back
• Rolling escape prevention: Stay on top, never let them roll over you
• Sit-out escape prevention: Use body triangle to prevent sitting
• Hand-fighting: Attack the near-side arm before they can grip your arms