BJJ Basics: The Cross Lapel Choke From the Back

The cross lapel choke is a staple Brazilian Jiu Jitsu technique from the back.  This is a fundamental BJJ technique, as all lapel chokes from the back are simply variations of this choke.

The Seatbelt

There are many different ways you can control your opponent’s back from the back. For this example, we’ll control the back using “The Seatbelt”.

To get into this position, put your right arm over your opponent’s right shoulder. Get your left arm underneath their left shoulder.

It’s imperative that you control your top arm. To do this, grab your right wrist with your left hand. Always hide the wristwatch on your top arm.

Don’t grab your right hand too far down. If you do this, you will give your opponent your wrist. Once your opponent grabs your wrist, they can do a very easy escape called the “straight arm scheme”. So always make sure to hide your wristwatch.

The Cross Lapel Choke

Now you are going to hold tight, bringing your hands to your chin. Your right hand is open and is free to work. Feed your right thumb to their far (left) lapel. Slide your thumb underneath the inside of their lapel.

Once you have this, let your left hand go. With your left hand, grab their left lapel underneath your right hand. Using your left hand pull their lapel down, sliding the lapel through your right hand.

Keep your right grip somewhat loose, it doesn’t need to be super tight. Your right wrist will look like it is punching. It should be square, directly in front of your two forearm bones.

Then using your left hand, grab their far (right) jacket lapel.

Now you’re going to fall to your side. As you fall to your side, bring your right elbow up and behind your opponent’s right shoulder. Then pull both your elbows back as you pull your legs back.

Common mistake

Don’t make this common mistake. Once you have your seatbelt, do not grab your opponent’s lapel with your left hand, leaving your right hand vacant. If you do this, your opponent can grab your right wrist and escape.