Mastering the No Gi Ezekiel Choke

The Ezekiel choke is a classic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) submission renowned for its effectiveness and versatility. While traditionally executed with the gi, the no-gi Ezekiel choke is a formidable variation that every BJJ practitioner should have in their arsenal. In this post, we’ll dive into the intricacies of the no-gi Ezekiel choke, offering a step-by-step guide to mastering this sneaky submission.

Understanding the No Gi Ezekiel Choke

The no-gi variation of the Ezekiel choke requires a different approach due to the absence of a gi for grips. Instead, the technique relies heavily on the correct placement of your arms and the efficient use of leverage.

The Ezekiel choke is a highly effective submission technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) that targets the opponent’s neck. Traditionally, this move is executed while wearing a gi, allowing the practitioner to utilize grips on the collar for control and leverage. However, in no-gi grappling or submission wrestling, where practitioners don’t wear a gi, modifications must be made to adapt the technique for a no-gi setting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the No Gi Ezekiel Choke

1. Establish Control: Before attempting the no Gi Ezekiel choke, establish control over your opponent. This can be done by getting into a dominant position such as side control, mount, or back control.

2. Grip Placement: Your grip placement becomes crucial without the gi. Instead of grabbing the collar, you can use a variety of grips to secure your opponent’s neck. One familiar grip is to clasp your hands together with your palms facing upwards, creating a “gable grip.”

3. Arm Placement: With your grip secured, slide one of your arms under your opponent’s chin and across their neck. Your forearm should be pressed against the throat, applying pressure.

4 . Apply Pressure: Once your arm is in position, use your other hand to pull down on the back of your opponent’s head, increasing the pressure on their neck.

5. Leverage: To further enhance the pressure, drive your hips forward while pulling down on their head. This will create a tight squeeze and make it difficult for your opponent to escape or breathe.

6. Finish the Choke: Maintain the pressure and squeeze until your opponent taps or submits. Be sure to listen and feel for any signs of distress from your opponent, and release the choke immediately once they tap or verbally submit.

Tips for Success:

– Keep a strong base: Maintaining good posture and balance will allow you to generate more power in your choke.

– Use your body weight: By driving your hips forward, you can use your body weight to add more pressure to the choke.

– Be patient: The Ezekiel choke may take some time to fully sink in. Stay calm and maintain control while slowly increasing the pressure.

– Practice timing: Timing is crucial when applying the Ezekiel choke. Look for opportunities when your opponent is distracted or off balance to catch them by surprise.

– Use it as a threat: Even if you don’t fully apply the choke, using the threat of it can create openings for other attacks or submissions.

Common Mistakes and Corrections

– Losing the Grip: The most common mistake is a weak grip, causing your arms to slip. Ensure your arms are tightly secured, and your fist is firmly placed.

– Incorrect Arm Placement: The choke will be ineffective if your arm isn’t correctly placed against the neck. Realign your arm so the inside of your elbow presses against their neck.

Training Tips

– Drill Slowly: Practice the technique slowly with a partner, focusing on the correct placement of your arms and grip placement.

– Strength Training: Incorporate exercises that strengthen your arms and grip, such as pull-ups and forearm exercises.

– Flow Rolling: Apply the choke during flow rolling sessions to understand its timing and application in more dynamic scenarios.

Variations and Advanced Techniques

Once you have mastered the basic no-gi Ezekiel choke, you can explore variations and advanced techniques to enhance your submission game further. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Arm-In Ezekiel Choke: Instead of sliding your arm under your opponent’s chin, you can opt for an arm-in variation. Start by securing a grip on your opponent’s collar with one hand, and then slide your other arm inside their collar, with your palm facing upwards. From there, follow the same steps as the basic Ezekiel choke to apply pressure and finish the submission.

2. Ezekiel Choke from Guard: This variation allows you to apply the choke even when you are on your back in guard position. From guard, secure a grip on your opponent’s collar with one hand. Then, use your other hand to grab their opposite sleeve or wrist. Pull down on the collar grip while simultaneously pushing up with your wrist grip, creating a choking effect.

3. Ezekiel Choke from Mount: This variation is effective when you have achieved the mount position on top of your opponent. With your knees straddling their sides, secure a grip on their collar with one hand. Slide your other arm under their head and place your palm against the side of their neck. Drive your hips forward, using your body weight to add pressure and finish the choke.

4. Ezekiel Choke from Side Control: If you have achieved side control position, you can transition into an Ezekiel choke. Start by securing a grip on your opponent’s collar with one hand. Then, reach your other arm across their neck and grab the collar on the opposite side. Use your body weight to drive into them, creating pressure and finishing the choke.

Remember, practice is vital when it comes to mastering the Ezekiel choke. Take the time to drill the technique, work on your timing, and experiment with different variations. The no-gi Ezekiel choke is a potent weapon in the arsenal of a BJJ practitioner. By understanding the mechanics of the choke and practicing it regularly, you can add an unexpected and effective submission to your game. Remember, consistent practice and attention to detail is the key to mastering any BJJ technique.

If you’re looking for a place to practice your BJJ skills, come visit us at Granite Bay Jiu Jitsu! Our qualified instructors can teach you everything you need to know.