Cross Collar Choke

From Full Guard: Two-Handed Collar Choke Setup

Key Steps

Step 1: Control and posture

• Break their posture and sit into your guard. Keep your head tucked and your back neutral to limit their options.

Step 2: Establish grips on opposite sides of the collar

• With both hands, grip the gi collar on opposite sides of their neck. Keep wrists solid, elbows tucked, and cross your grips to lock them in.

Step 3: Create angle and sink your hips

• Turn your torso to the side, drive your hips toward their far shoulder, and use your legs to keep them close. This angle helps compress the neck when you apply pressure.

Step 4: Finish and control

• Squeeze both collars simultaneously, driving your elbows toward your ribs. Maintain the angle and keep your guard active as you seek the tap.

Application

• This gi-only technique is a fundamental tool in jiu jitsu moves and bjj techniques. Beginner-friendly when practiced with control. Use it step-by-step to understand the mechanics of collar chokes from the full guard.

Mistakes

• Grips too shallow or asymmetrical; failing to angle; letting posture stay upright; elbows flared; relying on arm strength rather than hips; losing control of the guard.

Tips

• Keep wrists tight and thumbs tucked; use hip movement to create leverage; practice slowly, then increase pressure; tap early to train safely; useful in gi training across jiujitsu moves.