Master the Rear Naked Choke: A Comprehensive Guide
The Rear Naked Choke (RNC), also known as the Sleeper Hold, is a highly effective submission hold in various martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), and wrestling. When applied correctly, it can quickly and efficiently render an opponent unconscious. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that the RNC should only be practiced in a controlled environment under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Improper application can lead to serious injury or even death.
This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to execute the RNC safely and effectively. We will cover the essential principles, step-by-step techniques, common mistakes to avoid, and crucial safety considerations.
Understanding the Rear Naked Choke
The RNC is a blood choke, meaning it restricts blood flow to the brain through the carotid arteries in the neck. This leads to unconsciousness within seconds if applied correctly. Unlike an air choke, which restricts airflow to the lungs, the RNC targets the vascular system.
Important Note: Never practice the RNC on someone who is not aware of what you are doing. Always communicate clearly with your training partner and tap out immediately if you feel uncomfortable or are losing consciousness.
Essential Principles of the Rear Naked Choke
Before diving into the specific steps, it’s essential to understand the fundamental principles that underpin a successful RNC:
* Positioning: Obtaining a dominant position on your opponent’s back is crucial. This provides the control necessary to apply the choke effectively.
* Control: Maintaining control of your opponent’s body, especially their posture, is essential to prevent them from escaping.
* Grip: A proper grip is vital for maximizing the effectiveness of the choke. The goal is to create a tight seal around the neck, effectively restricting blood flow.
* Angle: The angle of your body relative to your opponent’s neck is crucial. A perpendicular angle typically provides the best leverage.
* Pressure: Applying the correct amount of pressure is essential. Too little pressure will be ineffective, while too much pressure can be dangerous.
* Awareness: Always be aware of your opponent’s reactions and adjust your technique accordingly. Be prepared to release the choke immediately if they tap out or signal distress.
Step-by-Step Guide to Executing the Rear Naked Choke
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in executing the RNC:
Step 1: Obtain Back Control
The first and most crucial step is to secure a dominant position on your opponent’s back. This can be achieved through various takedowns, sweeps, or transitions. Here are a few common scenarios:
* From Mount: Transitioning to the back from a mounted position is a common approach. This involves controlling your opponent’s arms and legs while sliding off to one side and securing your hooks.
* From Turtle Position: When your opponent is in a turtle position, you can attack the back by circling around and securing your hooks.
* From Guard Pass: After successfully passing your opponent’s guard, you can immediately attack the back by controlling their upper body and sliding behind them.
When taking the back, focus on:
* Securing Your Hooks: Your feet should be hooked inside your opponent’s thighs, controlling their lower body and preventing them from turning into you.
* Maintaining Chest-to-Back Contact: Staying tight to your opponent’s back prevents them from creating space and escaping.
* Controlling the Arms: Controlling at least one of your opponent’s arms is important to prevent them from defending the choke.
Step 2: Establish Your Grip
Once you have secured back control, you need to establish a proper grip for the choke. There are two primary grips used for the RNC:
* Figure-Four Grip: This is the most common grip and is considered the most secure. To execute it:
* Reach one arm over your opponent’s shoulder and under their chin, positioning your bicep across their trachea (windpipe). This arm will be your choking arm.
* Place your other hand behind your choking arm’s bicep, grabbing your own shoulder muscle. This creates a figure-four shape with your arms.
* Make sure the blade of your forearm is pressing firmly against the carotid artery on the opposite side of your opponent’s neck.
* Palm-to-Palm Grip: This grip is often used as a variation or when the figure-four grip is unavailable. To execute it:
* Reach one arm over your opponent’s shoulder and under their chin, as with the figure-four grip.
* Bring your other hand up and place your palm against the back of your choking arm’s hand.
* Clasp your hands together tightly.
Key Considerations for Grip:
* Deep Grip: Ensure your choking arm is deep enough under your opponent’s chin to effectively target the carotid arteries.
* Tight Grip: Squeeze your grip tightly to maximize pressure on the neck.
* Avoid the Windpipe: While the bicep is positioned across the trachea, the pressure should primarily target the carotid arteries, not the windpipe. Squeezing the trachea can cause unnecessary pain and is not the goal of the RNC.
Step 3: Apply the Choke
With your grip established, it’s time to apply the choke. This involves a combination of squeezing your arms and pulling your opponent towards you:
* Squeeze Your Arms: Simultaneously squeeze your choking arm and your supporting arm (the one that is gripping your bicep or forming the palm-to-palm grip). This constricts the carotid arteries.
* Pull Your Opponent Towards You: Pull your opponent tightly against your chest. This helps to close any gaps and maximize the pressure on their neck.
* Arch Your Back: Arching your back slightly can help to generate more power and tighten the choke.
Important Tips for Applying the Choke:
* Smooth and Controlled: Avoid jerky or sudden movements. Apply the pressure smoothly and gradually.
* Full Body Engagement: Use your entire body, not just your arms, to generate power. Engage your core and legs to maintain control and increase pressure.
* Maintain Control: Continue to maintain control of your opponent’s body throughout the choke. This prevents them from escaping or defending.
Step 4: Monitor and Adjust
As you apply the choke, pay close attention to your opponent’s reaction. They may tap out immediately, or they may try to resist. Be prepared to adjust your technique accordingly:
* Tapping Out: If your opponent taps out, immediately release the choke. Do not continue applying pressure after they have submitted.
* Resistance: If your opponent is resisting, you may need to adjust your grip, angle, or pressure. Try tightening your grip, arching your back more, or pulling them closer to you.
* No Reaction: If your opponent does not react, continue to apply pressure until they tap out or lose consciousness. However, always be mindful of their safety and be prepared to release the choke immediately if you sense any danger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many beginners make common mistakes when attempting the RNC. Avoiding these mistakes will significantly improve your success rate and reduce the risk of injury:
* Not Securing Back Control Properly: If you don’t have a solid grip on your opponent’s back, they will likely escape before you can apply the choke.
* Having a Weak Grip: A loose or weak grip will not effectively restrict blood flow. Focus on creating a tight and secure grip.
* Squeezing the Windpipe: As mentioned earlier, the RNC should target the carotid arteries, not the windpipe. Squeezing the windpipe can cause unnecessary pain and is not the goal of the choke.
* Applying Too Much Pressure Too Quickly: Applying too much pressure too quickly can be dangerous and may cause injury. Apply the pressure smoothly and gradually.
* Ignoring Your Opponent’s Reaction: Pay close attention to your opponent’s reaction and be prepared to release the choke immediately if they tap out or signal distress.
* Reaching Too Far Over Their Shoulder: Your choking arm should be deep enough under their chin to effectively target the carotid arteries, but not so far that you are reaching over their shoulder. This can weaken your grip and make it difficult to apply pressure.
* Not Controlling the Arms: Controlling at least one of your opponent’s arms is important to prevent them from defending the choke. If they can use their arms to break your grip, they can escape the choke.
Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount when practicing the RNC. Here are some crucial safety considerations to keep in mind:
* Practice Under Supervision: Always practice the RNC under the supervision of a qualified instructor who can provide guidance and ensure your safety.
* Communicate Clearly: Communicate clearly with your training partner about your intentions and their comfort level. Establish a clear signal for tapping out.
* Tap Out Immediately: If you feel uncomfortable or are losing consciousness, tap out immediately. Do not hesitate to tap out, even if you think you can withstand the choke for a little longer.
* Control Your Ego: Leave your ego at the door and focus on learning and improving your technique. Do not try to force the choke if your opponent is resisting strongly.
* Be Aware of Medical Conditions: Be aware of any medical conditions that your training partner may have that could be affected by the RNC, such as neck injuries or cardiovascular problems.
* Start Slowly: Start by practicing the movements slowly and gradually increase the intensity as you become more comfortable with the technique.
* Avoid Using on Untrained Individuals: Never attempt to apply the RNC on someone who is not trained in martial arts and aware of the technique. This could result in serious injury or legal consequences.
Drills to Improve Your Rear Naked Choke
Regular drilling is essential for developing proficiency in the RNC. Here are some effective drills you can incorporate into your training:
* Positional Drilling: Practice transitioning to back control from various positions, such as mount, turtle, and guard pass. Focus on securing your hooks and maintaining chest-to-back contact.
* Grip Drilling: Practice establishing both the figure-four grip and the palm-to-palm grip. Focus on getting a deep and tight grip.
* Choke Application Drilling: Practice applying the choke with a training partner who will resist. Focus on squeezing your arms, pulling your opponent towards you, and arching your back.
* Escape Drilling: Practice defending against the RNC from the perspective of the person being choked. Focus on breaking the grip, creating space, and turning into your opponent.
* Flow Drilling: Combine positional, grip, and choke application drilling into a seamless flow. This will help you develop fluidity and speed in your technique.
Variations of the Rear Naked Choke
While the basic RNC is highly effective, there are several variations that can be used to adapt to different situations:
* One-Arm RNC: This variation is used when you can only secure one arm around your opponent’s neck. It relies more on pressure from the forearm against the carotid artery.
* Modified RNC: This variation involves using different hand positions to enhance the choke, such as cupping the back of your opponent’s head or using a gable grip.
* Gi Choke from the Back: In BJJ, the gi can be used to enhance the RNC. This involves using the gi lapel to create a tighter grip and more effective choke.
Conclusion
The Rear Naked Choke is a powerful and effective submission hold that can be a valuable asset to any martial artist’s arsenal. By understanding the essential principles, practicing the step-by-step techniques, avoiding common mistakes, and prioritizing safety, you can master this technique and become a more well-rounded martial artist. Remember to always train under the supervision of a qualified instructor and prioritize the safety of yourself and your training partners. With consistent practice and dedication, you can develop a devastating RNC that will serve you well in competition or self-defense situations.