Learn to execute the Rear Naked Choke (RNC) in BJJ with our expert step-by-step guide. Master setups, grips, and finishes for this dominant submission...
Choke
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Beginner
The Rear Naked Choke (RNC) is arguably the most dominant and effective submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, executed from an opponent's back. It's a blood choke designed to restrict blood flow to the brain, leading to a quick and safe tap. Mastering the RNC is essential for any serious BJJ practitioner, offering a high-percentage finish in both sport and self-defense scenarios.
Technique Map
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Choke["Choke"]:::catNode
Choke --> Rear_Naked_Choke
Rear_Naked_Choke["Rear Naked Choke"]:::currentNode
Rear_Naked_Choke -.-> Triangle_Choke["Triangle Choke"]:::relNode
Rear_Naked_Choke -.-> Guillotine_Choke["Guillotine Choke"]:::relNode
Rear_Naked_Choke -.-> Bow_and_Arrow_Choke["Bow and Arrow Choke"]:::relNode
Rear_Naked_Choke -.-> Ezekiel_Choke["Ezekiel Choke"]:::relNode
Rear_Naked_Choke -.-> D_Arce_Choke["D'Arce Choke"]:::relNode
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classDef relNode fill:#141926,stroke:#1f2840,color:#a78bfa
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How to Execute
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Step 1: Secure Back Control. Establish a dominant back position, ideally with hooks in and a seatbelt grip, or a body triangle, ensuring your opponent cannot escape easily.
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Step 2: Isolate the Neck. Use your non-choking arm (often the bottom arm) to clear any defensive hands or tuck their chin, creating an opening to slide your primary choking arm under.
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Step 3: Establish the Choking Arm. Slide your primary choking arm (often the top arm) deep under their chin, with your forearm across their carotid artery. Your bicep should be behind their head.
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Step 4: Create the Secondary Grip. Bring your other hand (the non-choking hand) to grasp the bicep of your choking arm, forming a figure-four grip that locks the choke in place.
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Step 5: Finish the Choke. Place your free hand (the one gripping your bicep) behind their head or on your own shoulder, then squeeze your elbows together, flaring your chest out, to constrict blood flow until they tap.
Key Details & Tips
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Blood Choke, Not Air Choke: The RNC targets the carotid arteries on the sides of the neck, not the windpipe. This makes it more efficient, safer, and quicker.
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Head Position is Crucial: Keep your head tightly pressed against theirs throughout the setup and finish to control their posture and prevent them from turning out.
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Elbows In for Pressure: During the finish, focus on squeezing your elbows together and flaring your chest out, rather than just pulling. This creates maximum leverage and pressure.
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Common Mistake: Chin Fighting: Do not try to fight their chin. If their chin is tucked, clear it with your non-choking hand or switch to a neck crank if legal and appropriate.
Variations
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Palm-to-Palm RNC: Instead of gripping your own bicep, your hands grip each other (palm to palm) behind their head, offering a slightly different leverage point.
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Body Triangle RNC: Utilizing a body triangle with your legs instead of hooks provides tighter control, making it harder for your opponent to escape and defend the choke.
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Arm Triangle Choke (Related): While not an RNC, the Arm Triangle is a similar blood choke executed from side control or mount, using your arm and their shoulder to constrict the neck.
When to Use
The Rear Naked Choke is predominantly used when you have secured a dominant back control position, ideally with hooks in or a body triangle. It's also applicable during scrambles if you can briefly gain access to your opponent's back and quickly establish a grip.
Counters & Defenses
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Hand Fighting Early: The most effective defense is to prevent the choke from being set up by actively fighting their hands and wrists as they try to establish their grip.
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Chin Tucking: Keep your chin firmly tucked against your chest to block the choking arm from sliding deep under your throat and gaining the necessary leverage.
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Escape the Back Position: Prioritize escaping the back by bridging, turning, and shrugging off their hooks or body triangle to remove yourself from the danger zone.
Elite Athletes Who Use This Technique
βοΈ Training Safety & Performance
Q: What's the difference between a Rear Naked Choke and a 'sleeper hold'?
In BJJ, the Rear Naked Choke is a highly refined blood choke specifically targeting the carotid arteries, designed for a quick and safe submission. While a 'sleeper hold' is a common term for a similar action, the RNC emphasizes precise technique, proper back control, and a figure-four grip for maximum efficiency and safety, distinct from less controlled or ill-informed applications.
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