The cross collar choke from mount is a highly effective submission and one of the first chokes many BJJ practitioners learn. It’s simple yet powerful, with an emphasis on technique and control rather than brute strength. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you perfect this classic move.

Step 1: Establish a Solid Mount Position

Before attempting the choke, ensure you’re stable in the mount position. Widen your knees, keep your hips low, and position your hands lightly on your opponent’s chest to maintain control. Your weight distribution is key here; aim to stay heavy on your opponent’s chest and hips to limit their movement. A secure mount minimizes their chances of escaping and sets up your choke effectively.

Step 2: Enter the First Hand

Start by sliding your dominant hand into your opponent’s collar, going palm up. Aim to get a deep grip, ideally with your fingers reaching behind their collar near the back of their neck. This deep grip provides the leverage you need to create a firm foundation for the choke. Try to keep your arm relaxed—if you’re too tense, it could give your opponent a chance to feel your next move and resist.

Step 3: Bring in the Second Hand

Now, with your non-dominant hand, reach across and slide your fingers under your first hand. Aim for a similar depth on the opposite collar, with your second hand also going palm up. Your forearms should form an “X” across your opponent’s neck, with your elbows pointing outward. Make sure your second grip is as close to the back of their neck as possible; this hand placement maximizes the choke’s pressure.

Step 4: Apply the Choke

To initiate the choke, pull your elbows downward and inward, slowly drawing them together as if you’re trying to “squeeze” the neck. Lean forward slightly and lower your chest toward your opponent to increase the pressure. Rather than relying solely on arm strength, engage your back muscles for a smoother, tighter choke. The closer your chest is to your opponent, the more effective the choke will be.

Step 5: Maintain Control

Keep an eye on your opponent’s reactions. The cross collar choke should create immediate pressure, but it’s essential to maintain control without rushing the finish. Stay calm and hold steady pressure; if your opponent begins to struggle or bridge, use your mount control skills to stay on top and retain your grip.

Step 6: Finish with Patience

As you maintain the choke, wait for your opponent’s tap, signaling they’ve submitted. Practicing patience here is key—a rushed choke can lead to your grips loosening, or worse, losing the position entirely. With time and practice, you’ll develop a feel for how much pressure is needed to secure the submission effectively.

Key Tips for Success:

  • Hand Depth Matters: The deeper your hands are behind the collar, the more leverage you’ll have, making the choke tighter and harder for your opponent to defend.
  • Stay Low: Don’t sit too high on your opponent’s chest; staying low lets you use your body weight to enhance control and pressure.
  • Adjust as Needed: If your opponent bridges or attempts to escape, keep your hips heavy and adjust your grips if necessary without sacrificing stability.

Why the Cross Collar Choke is Effective

The cross collar choke is efficient because it doesn’t require extensive strength, making it perfect for smaller practitioners who rely on technique. This submission works by cutting off blood flow through the carotid arteries, creating a quick, effective finish with minimal risk of injury. It’s a foundational technique for beginners, but also one that remains useful for advanced grapplers.

Mastering the cross collar choke from mount not only adds a powerful tool to your game but also reinforces essential skills in grip, control, and pressure that apply across many areas of BJJ.

 

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