The rear naked choke (RNC) is a foundational submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling. Applied from back control, it combines positional control with carefully applied neck compression. Because unconsciousness can occur quickly, practice only with appropriate supervision and a cooperative partner who understands tapping.
What Is a Rear Naked Choke?
The RNC is applied from behind an opponent without requiring a gi collar. The attacker establishes back control, maintains close connection and positions an arm around the neck before applying controlled finishing pressure.
Step 1: Establish Back Control
Begin behind your partner with your chest connected to their upper back. Use the lower-body control taught by your coach and stabilize the position before attempting a submission.
Step 2: Create the Opening
During cooperative drilling, work past the partner’s defensive hands and position the choking arm around the neck. Avoid forcing the head or neck into an unnatural position.
Step 3: Position the Choking Arm
Work the arm into a deep position with minimal unnecessary space while keeping your chest connected to the partner’s back. Precise positioning is more important than relying on arm strength.
Step 4: Secure the Position
Connect your arms using the finishing configuration taught by your qualified BJJ or grappling coach. Maintain back control and avoid sudden twisting or neck-cranking movements.
Step 5: Apply Pressure Gradually
During training, increase pressure slowly and predictably. Give your partner time to recognize the submission and tap rather than applying an explosive squeeze.
Step 6: Release Immediately on the Tap
Release immediately when your partner taps, verbally submits or otherwise signals distress. Never continue applying a choke after a submission signal.
Key Principles
- Establish position before submission.
- Maintain close upper-body connection.
- Prioritize positioning over excessive strength.
- Apply pressure progressively during drilling.
- Release immediately on the tap.
Common Mistakes
- Attacking before establishing back control.
- Leaving excessive space.
- Trying to compensate for positioning with arm strength.
- Using sudden neck-cranking force.
- Continuing after a partner signals submission.
Gi vs. No-Gi
The rear naked choke does not require clothing grips, so it can be used in both gi and no-gi grappling. Hand fighting, back-control methods and transitions can differ according to clothing and ruleset.
Training Safety
Chokeholds can cause unconsciousness and potentially serious injury when applied incorrectly or held too long. Practice only in an appropriate martial-arts environment with qualified instruction. Establish a clear tap signal, apply pressure gradually and release immediately. Never encourage a training partner to resist until unconsciousness.
How to Practice
Start with cooperative positional drilling. Develop reliable back control and correct positioning before adding resistance. Increase intensity only according to your instructor’s guidance and gym rules.
FAQ
Is the rear naked choke a blood choke?
When correctly positioned, the technique is intended to compress the sides of the neck rather than simply apply pressure to the windpipe. This is why responsible supervision and immediate release are essential.
Should I squeeze as hard as possible?
No. In technical practice, prioritize positioning and gradual controlled pressure.
When should the defending athlete tap?
Tap before reaching unconsciousness. Resisting a properly applied choke should not be treated as a test of toughness.
The Bottom Line
The rear naked choke combines back control, positioning, connection and controlled finishing mechanics. Develop the position first, train progressively and treat partner safety as part of correct technique.
