Mastering The Rear Naked Choke: A Comprehensive Guide

by Alex Johnson 54 views

The rear naked choke (RNC), a staple in martial arts and self-defense, is a blood choke that applies pressure to the carotid arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain. This submission hold, when executed correctly, can lead to a rapid loss of consciousness. Whether you're a seasoned grappler or a beginner, understanding the nuances of the RNC is crucial for both offensive and defensive strategies. This guide delves deep into the techniques, application, and defense of the rear naked choke, providing you with the knowledge to enhance your grappling game. Understanding the rear naked choke is not just about adding a powerful submission to your arsenal; it’s about comprehending the dynamics of control, leverage, and timing in grappling. This choke, often considered one of the most effective submission holds, has a rich history and a wide range of applications across various combat sports and self-defense scenarios. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of the rear naked choke, covering its fundamental techniques, practical applications, common mistakes to avoid, and effective defense strategies. By the end of this guide, you will have a solid understanding of how to execute and defend against the rear naked choke, enabling you to enhance your grappling skills and overall combat proficiency.

The Anatomy and Mechanics of the Rear Naked Choke

At its core, the rear naked choke is a blood choke that targets the carotid arteries and jugular veins in the neck. By applying pressure to these vital blood vessels, the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain is restricted, leading to a rapid loss of consciousness if the choke is applied correctly. The mechanics of the RNC involve several key components, including securing the position, establishing the grip, applying pressure, and maintaining control. The primary mechanism of the rear naked choke involves restricting blood flow to the brain by compressing the carotid arteries on both sides of the neck. These arteries are the main pathways for oxygenated blood to reach the brain, and when they are constricted, the brain’s oxygen supply is quickly reduced. This can lead to a loss of consciousness within seconds if the choke is applied effectively. The choke also affects the jugular veins, which are responsible for returning blood from the brain to the heart. Compressing these veins can further disrupt blood flow and contribute to the effectiveness of the choke. Understanding the anatomy and physiology behind the rear naked choke is crucial for both executing the technique safely and effectively, as well as for recognizing and defending against it. The correct application of pressure, combined with a secure grip and proper body positioning, is essential for maximizing the choke’s effectiveness while minimizing the risk of injury.

Key Components of a Successful RNC:

  • Positioning: Securing the back mount position is the first critical step. This position offers a significant advantage, allowing you to control your opponent's movements and apply the choke without being directly threatened.
  • Grip: There are two primary grip variations: the Gable grip (interlocking fingers) and the Figure-Four grip (one arm hooked around the bicep of the choking arm). Each grip has its advantages, but the Figure-Four grip is generally considered more secure and powerful.
  • Pressure: The choke is applied by squeezing the arm across the opponent's neck while simultaneously pulling the opponent into your chest. The pressure should be focused on the carotid arteries, not the trachea.
  • Control: Maintaining control of your opponent's body is essential to prevent escapes and ensure the choke remains effective. This involves using your legs to secure the body lock and your body weight to maintain pressure.

Techniques for Executing the Rear Naked Choke

Executing the rear naked choke effectively requires a combination of precise technique, timing, and control. The setup is as crucial as the choke itself. Often, the path to a successful RNC begins with securing a dominant position, such as the back mount. This position gives you a significant advantage, allowing you to control your opponent's movements and set up the choke without being directly threatened. The back mount provides the ideal angle and control necessary to apply the choke effectively. From the back mount, the next step is to establish the grip. There are two primary grip variations commonly used in the RNC: the Gable grip and the Figure-Four grip. Each grip has its own advantages and is suitable for different situations and preferences. The Gable grip involves interlocking your fingers together, forming a solid, unified grip. This grip is simple to establish and provides a good level of control. However, it may not be as secure as the Figure-Four grip, particularly against a strong or slippery opponent. The Figure-Four grip, on the other hand, is considered by many to be the more secure and powerful option. It involves hooking one arm around the bicep of your choking arm, creating a tight, figure-four-like shape. This grip provides excellent leverage and is less likely to slip, making it a preferred choice for many grapplers. Once the grip is established, the next step is to apply the pressure. This is where the technique of the RNC truly comes into play. The choke is applied by squeezing the arm across the opponent's neck while simultaneously pulling the opponent into your chest. It’s important to focus the pressure on the carotid arteries, which are located on the sides of the neck, rather than the trachea (windpipe). Applying pressure to the trachea can cause pain and discomfort but is less likely to result in a loss of consciousness. The key is to constrict the blood flow to the brain by compressing the arteries. While applying pressure, it’s crucial to maintain control of your opponent’s body. This prevents them from escaping the choke or reversing the position. Control is achieved by using your legs to secure a body lock, wrapping your legs around your opponent’s torso or waist. This prevents them from turning or creating space to escape. Additionally, using your body weight to maintain pressure can help keep the choke tight and effective. By maintaining control, you ensure that the choke remains in place and your opponent has fewer opportunities to defend or escape.

Step-by-Step Guide to Executing the RNC:

  1. Secure the Back Mount: Gain control of your opponent's back, ensuring your hips are close and your weight is balanced.
  2. Establish the Grip: Choose either the Gable grip or the Figure-Four grip, ensuring your choking arm is snug against your opponent's neck.
  3. Apply the Choke: Squeeze your arm across the neck while pulling your opponent into your chest. Focus on constricting the carotid arteries.
  4. Maintain Control: Use your legs to secure a body lock and your body weight to keep the choke tight.
  5. Adjust as Needed: Be prepared to adjust your grip and positioning as your opponent attempts to defend or escape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying the Rear Naked Choke

Applying the rear naked choke correctly can be the difference between a successful submission and a failed attempt. Several common mistakes can diminish the effectiveness of the choke or even leave you vulnerable to a counterattack. Avoiding these pitfalls is essential for mastering the RNC. One of the most common mistakes is gripping too high on the neck. When the grip is positioned too high, the pressure is applied to the jaw and chin rather than the carotid arteries. This not only makes the choke less effective but also provides your opponent with more space to breathe and potentially escape. The ideal grip should be snug against the neck, with the forearm pressing directly on the carotid arteries. Another frequent error is using the bicep to choke. While the bicep does play a role in applying pressure, the primary choking force should come from the forearm and shoulder. Relying solely on the bicep can lead to fatigue and a weaker choke. The goal is to create a tight seal around the neck with the forearm and use the shoulder to drive the choke deeper. Many practitioners also make the mistake of not securing the body lock. The body lock is crucial for maintaining control of your opponent and preventing escapes. Without a secure body lock, your opponent can turn, create space, or even reverse the position. Wrapping your legs tightly around your opponent’s torso or waist ensures that they cannot move freely and that the choke remains in place. Failing to adjust the grip during the choke is another common mistake. Opponents will often try to defend the RNC by pulling your arm away or creating space. Being able to adjust your grip and positioning in response to their movements is essential for maintaining the choke’s effectiveness. This might involve deepening the grip, shifting your weight, or readjusting your body lock. In addition to these technical errors, not maintaining consistent pressure throughout the choke can also lead to failure. The rear naked choke is a blood choke, which means it requires consistent pressure on the carotid arteries to be effective. Releasing pressure intermittently can give your opponent a chance to recover and escape. Once the choke is applied, it’s crucial to maintain steady, focused pressure until your opponent submits or loses consciousness. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your ability to execute the rear naked choke effectively and efficiently.

Common Pitfalls in RNC Execution:

  • Gripping Too High: Ensure your forearm is pressing directly on the carotid arteries, not the jaw or chin.
  • Using the Bicep to Choke: Focus on using your forearm and shoulder to apply pressure.
  • Not Securing the Body Lock: Always secure a tight body lock to maintain control and prevent escapes.
  • Failing to Adjust the Grip: Be prepared to adjust your grip and positioning as your opponent defends.
  • Inconsistent Pressure: Maintain steady pressure throughout the choke to ensure its effectiveness.

Defending Against the Rear Naked Choke

Knowing how to defend against the rear naked choke is just as important as knowing how to apply it. A strong defense can prevent you from being submitted and may even allow you to turn the tables on your opponent. Recognizing the early signs of an impending RNC is the first step in a successful defense. This means being aware of your opponent’s positioning, grip attempts, and overall strategy. If you sense that your opponent is trying to take your back or secure a dominant position, it’s crucial to react quickly. One of the most effective initial defenses against the RNC is preventing your opponent from getting their hooks in. The hooks are the legs that wrap around your torso, securing the back mount position. By preventing the hooks, you can limit your opponent’s control and make it more difficult for them to establish the choke. This might involve sprawling, creating distance, or using your arms to block their legs. If your opponent manages to secure the back mount, the next critical step is to protect your neck. This involves tucking your chin and using your hands to defend against their grip attempts. Preventing them from getting their arm under your chin is essential, as this is the first step in applying the choke. You can use your hands to block their arm, push it away, or create space to turn and escape. Once your opponent has established a grip around your neck, the situation becomes more challenging but not impossible. One effective defense at this stage is to break the grip. This can be done by grabbing their choking arm with both of your hands and pulling it away from your neck. The key is to focus on breaking their grip before they can fully apply the pressure of the choke. Another defensive technique is to turn into your opponent. By turning your body towards them, you can relieve some of the pressure on your carotid arteries and create space to breathe. This also makes it more difficult for them to maintain the choke and can open up opportunities for you to escape. In situations where the choke is already being applied, it’s crucial to stay calm and avoid panicking. Panicking can lead to mistakes that make the situation worse. Focus on breathing and systematically applying your defensive techniques. If possible, try to peel their grip away, create space, or turn into them to relieve the pressure. Remember, defending against the rear naked choke requires a combination of awareness, technique, and composure. By practicing these defensive strategies, you can significantly improve your ability to withstand the choke and potentially escape.

Key Defensive Strategies:

  • Recognize Early Signs: Be aware of your opponent's positioning and grip attempts.
  • Prevent the Hooks: Block your opponent from securing their legs around your torso.
  • Protect Your Neck: Tuck your chin and use your hands to defend against grip attempts.
  • Break the Grip: Grab your opponent's choking arm and pull it away from your neck.
  • Turn Into Your Opponent: Relieve pressure by turning your body towards your opponent.

Drills and Training Exercises for the Rear Naked Choke

Mastering the rear naked choke requires consistent practice and drilling. Incorporating specific drills and exercises into your training routine can help you develop the necessary technique, timing, and muscle memory to execute and defend against the RNC effectively. Positional drilling is one of the most effective ways to improve your RNC skills. This involves starting in a specific position, such as the back mount, and practicing the techniques and transitions associated with the RNC. For example, you might start in the back mount and drill the process of establishing the grip, applying the choke, and maintaining control. Positional drilling allows you to focus on the technical aspects of the RNC without the added pressure of live sparring, making it an excellent way to build a solid foundation. Another valuable drill is grip fighting. This involves practicing the process of securing and breaking grips, which is essential for both applying and defending against the RNC. Grip fighting drills can help you develop the hand dexterity, strength, and timing needed to control your opponent’s arms and prevent them from establishing a strong grip. You can practice grip fighting in various positions, such as standing, on the ground, or in specific grappling scenarios. Live sparring is an integral part of RNC training. Sparring allows you to apply the techniques you’ve learned in a dynamic, real-time situation. When sparring, focus on setting up the RNC, applying the choke, and defending against it. This will help you develop the timing, reflexes, and decision-making skills needed to execute the RNC effectively in a live match. Be sure to spar with different partners and under varying conditions to challenge yourself and improve your adaptability. Submission-specific sparring is another effective training method for the RNC. This involves sparring with a specific goal in mind, such as securing the rear naked choke. In submission-specific sparring, you and your training partner agree to focus on a particular submission, allowing you to drill the techniques and transitions associated with that submission in a live setting. This type of sparring can be particularly useful for honing your RNC skills and developing a deeper understanding of the submission.

Recommended Drills:

  • Positional Drilling: Practice the RNC from the back mount, focusing on grip establishment, choke application, and control.
  • Grip Fighting: Drill the process of securing and breaking grips to enhance hand dexterity and control.
  • Live Sparring: Apply RNC techniques in dynamic, real-time situations to develop timing and reflexes.
  • Submission-Specific Sparring: Focus on the RNC during sparring sessions to deepen your understanding and skills.

The Rear Naked Choke in Mixed Martial Arts and Self-Defense

The rear naked choke is a highly effective submission hold that has become a staple in mixed martial arts (MMA) and self-defense. Its versatility, effectiveness, and relatively low risk of injury make it a valuable tool for both competitive fighters and individuals seeking practical self-defense techniques. In MMA, the RNC is one of the most commonly used and successful submission holds. Its effectiveness stems from its ability to quickly and decisively end a fight by restricting blood flow to the brain. Many MMA fighters have built their careers around their ability to secure and finish fights with the RNC. The choke can be applied from various positions, including the back mount, the turtle position, and even standing. This versatility makes it a potent weapon in a fighter’s arsenal. Fighters often use a combination of strikes and grappling to set up the RNC. For example, they might use strikes to weaken their opponent or create openings for a takedown, which can lead to the back mount position. From there, they can transition to the RNC. The effectiveness of the RNC in MMA has led to numerous highlight-reel finishes and has influenced the training regimens of fighters across various weight divisions. Beyond its use in competitive sports, the rear naked choke is also a highly effective self-defense technique. In a self-defense situation, the goal is to neutralize the threat as quickly and safely as possible. The RNC provides a way to control and subdue an attacker without causing lasting harm. Unlike strikes, which can cause significant injuries, the RNC restricts blood flow and leads to a temporary loss of consciousness. This can give you the opportunity to escape the situation and seek help. The RNC is particularly useful in self-defense because it can be applied from a dominant position, such as the back mount, which allows you to control your attacker’s movements. This position also provides a degree of protection, as your attacker has limited options for striking or grappling. However, it’s important to note that the rear naked choke, like any self-defense technique, should be used responsibly and only when necessary to protect yourself or others from harm. Proper training and awareness are crucial for ensuring its safe and effective application.

The RNC's Role in Combat:

  • MMA: A common and successful submission hold used to finish fights.
  • Self-Defense: A versatile technique for controlling and subduing an attacker with minimal risk of lasting harm.

Conclusion

The rear naked choke is a powerful and versatile submission hold that is essential for any grappler or martial artist to master. By understanding the anatomy and mechanics of the choke, practicing the techniques, avoiding common mistakes, and learning effective defenses, you can significantly enhance your grappling skills. Whether you are a competitive fighter or someone looking to improve your self-defense capabilities, the RNC is a valuable tool to have in your arsenal. Remember, consistent training and drilling are key to mastering this technique. The rear naked choke is not just a submission; it’s a testament to the art of control, leverage, and timing. Embrace the learning process, and you’ll find that the RNC can be a game-changer in your grappling journey.

For further information and advanced techniques, explore reputable resources like BJJ Fanatics, which offers a wide range of instructional videos and courses.