BJJ Triangle Choke Variations
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Master all BJJ triangle choke variations: front triangle, rear triangle, side triangle, reverse triangle, and mounting the triangle from guard.
Contents
Beyond the Basic Triangle
The triangle choke system extends far beyond the standard guard triangle. Once you understand the core mechanics — one arm in, one arm out, legs creating a figure-four around the neck — you can apply triangles from every position.
Triangle Variations
| Variation | Position | Key Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Guard Triangle (Front) | Guard — standard entry | 2-on-1, overhook the arm out |
| Rear Triangle | Back control | Legs wrap around neck from behind |
| Mounted Triangle | From mount | Armbar escape attempt → triangle |
| Side Triangle | Side control | Nearside arm + head locked |
| Reverse Triangle | Guard (facing away) | Invert, catch their arm + neck |
Finishing the Triangle
- Angle: Cut 90° to the arm that's in — this tightens the choke dramatically
- Head control: Pull their head down toward your hip, not straight down
- Squeeze: Tighten your legs while pulling down — both simultaneously
💡 Most missed detail: Most failed triangles lose because the angle is wrong. Scoot your hips to cut a hard 90° perpendicular to the trapped arm and the choke locks tight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my triangle not finish?
Three common reasons: wrong angle (you need to be perpendicular to the trapped arm), head not pulled down, or the arm isn't correctly positioned (one in, one out of the choke).
Can triangles be applied from all positions?
Yes — triangles can be set up from guard, mount, back, side control, standing (flying triangle), and in scrambles. The core mechanics are the same in every position.
What is the mounted triangle?
A mounted triangle locks the figure-four around the opponent's neck from a mounted position rather than guard. It's very tight and hard to escape compared to guard triangles.