## Guillotine Choke The Guillotine Choke is a sneaky submission that can be applied from several positions. It's particularly effective when your opponent exposes their neck or leans forward. Though basic in its setup, it becomes very powerful with proper technique. ### Position: Standing to Ground or Guard This technique can transition from standing to the ground or be initiated from guard positions. ### Possible Known Japanese Name: **Guira-chin** (ギロチン) ### Steps to Perform the Guillotine Choke: #### From Standing Position 1. **Initiate Head Control** - As your opponent bends forward or changes levels (perhaps for a takedown), swiftly slip your arm under their neck. - Your forearm should position itself across the front of their throat, gripping under their chin. 2. **Lock in the Grip** - Wrap your arm around the opponent's neck. - Grab your choking arm's wrist with your free hand, securing a firm grip. 3. **Position your Hips** - Step one foot slightly in front of your opponent and your other leg back. - Push your hips forward for increased pressure. 4. **Apply Leverage** - Pull upward with your arms while simultaneously arching backward. - Aim to utilize your body weight by leaning backward slightly, increasing the choke's pressure. 5. **Transition to Guard (optional)** - If you choose to take the fight to the ground, drop back to the mat while pulling your opponent forward. - Establish your guard if your opponent struggles to escape. #### From Closed Guard: 1. **Establish Control** - From your back, as your opponent leans in, reach over their neck with your forearm while achieving arm control. - Encircle their neck using the same grip method from the standing position. 2. **Secure your Leg Placement** - Ensure your legs are locked around your opponent's torso to prevent their escape. 3. **Apply the Choke** - Begin pulling upward on their head using the gripping arm. - Press your hips upward into your opponent, creating tension and pressure on their neck. 4. **Finalize and Adjust** - Adjust your body angle, slightly angling off to one side to reduce any gaps that might relieve pressure. - Continue pulling and adjusting until your opponent either submits or is unable to escape the choke. ### Important Considerations: - Ensure the choking arm stays tight against your opponent's neck. - Be mindful of your opponent's ability to escape or reverse the technique. Maintain control of their posture. - **Safety Tip**: Always practice responsibly and ensure your training partners are aware of their limits to prevent injury. The Guillotine Choke, while simple in concept, requires precise positioning and timing to become effective. Mastery of this technique can turn many grappling situations in your favor.