The North-South choke is a highly effective submission technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) applied from the North-South position. This position, while sometimes considered a transitional one, offers a direct path to this potent choke.
Position:
· In North-South, one practitioner establishes a dominant position on top of the other, facing their opponent's head and chest, essentially perpendicular to them. The attacker's torso is aligned with the opponent's, maximizing control and pressure. This positioning is crucial, as it allows the attacker to isolate the opponent's head and neck, limiting their escape options and setting the stage for the choke. The North-South position can be achieved from various transitions, such as failed kimura attempts, transitions from side control, or even as a surprise attack from a scramble.
Choke Mechanics:
· The attacker encircles the opponent's neck with one arm, reaching deeply to secure a firm grip. This arm becomes the primary tool for applying the choking pressure. There are variations in how this arm is positioned; some practitioners prefer a tighter, higher grip, while others opt for a deeper wrap to maximize control.
· They then trap the opponent's head tightly against their own body, often using their chest or shoulder. This head control is paramount. It prevents the opponent from framing (using their arms to create space) and turning their head to relieve the pressure. The attacker's chest or shoulder acts as a wedge, further isolating the opponent's neck.
· By bringing their hands together, the attacker completes the choke. The grip can vary - Gable grip, S-grip, or even a figure-four grip - depending on the attacker's preference and the situation. Simultaneously, the attacker applies pressure, primarily by driving their shoulder into the back of the opponent's neck. This multifaceted pressure restricts blood flow to the opponent's brain via the carotid arteries, disrupting the supply of oxygen and leading to unconsciousness if the choke is sustained. The effectiveness of the choke lies in this dual action: the arm encircling the neck and the shoulder applying direct pressure.
It's a powerful choke that, when applied correctly, can submit an opponent quickly. The North-South choke is often favored by grapplers who excel at control and pressure, as it allows them to dictate the pace of the match and limit the opponent's movements. Its effectiveness is evident in both gi and no-gi grappling, though subtle adjustments in technique may be necessary depending on the context.