BJJ Gi Choke Systems: Complete Guide
☰Contents
- Cross Collar Choke (Cross-Choke)
- Bow and Arrow Choke
- Ezekiel Choke
- Baseball Bat Choke
- Lapel Guard Chokes
- Drilling Protocol
- 🥋 Track Your BJJ Progress
- Related Techniques
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to learn Gi Choke Systems?
- Is Gi Choke Systems effective for beginners?
- How often should I drill Gi Choke Systems?
- What positions connect to Gi Choke Systems?
Master all collar, lapel, and sleeve chokes in the gi — setup to finish
Master all collar, lapel, and sleeve chokes in the gi — setup to finish
The gi opens up a world of choke opportunities that don't exist in no-gi. Collar chokes, lapel chokes, and cross-collar attacks form the backbone of the gi strangling game.
Cross Collar Choke (Cross-Choke)
The cross-choke from guard is one of the first submissions taught. Grip deep into the collar with both hands, drive elbows down and inward while pulling the opponent's head down. The key detail is palm-up grips that allow the ulnar bone to press into the carotid arteries.
Bow and Arrow Choke
The bow and arrow is widely considered the highest-percentage choke from back control in the gi. One hand grips the collar while the other controls the near leg. Lean back and extend, creating a bowing tension that tightens both hands simultaneously.
Ezekiel Choke
Unique to the gi, the Ezekiel can be applied from mount, side control, or even from the guard. Thread one arm through the sleeve, grip your own bicep, and drive the forearm into the throat. Devastating from mount when the opponent defends with their hands.
Baseball Bat Choke
Set up from side control or the turtle. One hand grips deep in the collar with a thumbs-up grip, the other crosses over with a thumbs-down grip. Roll through for a quick, unexpected finish.
Lapel Guard Chokes
The lapel can be used as a weapon to choke. Popular variations include the loop choke (wrapping the lapel around the opponent's neck) and the Peruvian necktie variation using the lapel as a grip anchor.
Drilling Protocol
- Cross-choke from guard: 3×10 reps each session
- Bow and arrow from back: 3×5 each side
- Ezekiel from mount: 2×10 both arms
- Partner resistance drilling for final squeeze mechanics
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn Gi Choke Systems?
Most practitioners develop functional competency with Gi Choke Systems within 3–6 months of consistent drilling. Mastery — the ability to execute reliably in live rolling against resisting opponents — typically takes 1–2 years.
Is Gi Choke Systems effective for beginners?
Yes. Gi Choke Systems is part of the core BJJ curriculum and taught at all belt levels. Beginners should focus on the fundamental mechanics and concepts before refining advanced entries.
How often should I drill Gi Choke Systems?
3–5 times per week is ideal for rapid skill acquisition. Even 10 focused repetitions per session compounds over time — consistency matters more than volume.
What positions connect to Gi Choke Systems?
BJJ is a linked system. Gi Choke Systems flows naturally to and from related positions. Study transitions in both directions to build a complete positional game.