The guillotine choke is one of the most versatile and powerful submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you're training in the gi or no-gi, it is a reliable technique that works across all levels and in a variety of situations. From scrambles and guard pulls to takedown defences and transitions, it is a go-to submission for many practitioners.

Its popularity comes from its simplicity, speed, and adaptability. But to master the guillotine, you need more than just a basic understanding. Precision in hand placement, body positioning, and timing all play a vital role.

This guide provides in-depth coverage of guillotine choke techniques, common mistakes, counters, and training tips. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, these insights will help refine your technique and elevate your submission game.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding the Guillotine Choke
2. Types of Guillotine Chokes
3. Executing the Perfect Guillotine Choke
4. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
5. Training Tips from Progress Jiu Jitsu
6. FAQs

Understanding the Guillotine Choke

 What is the Guillotine Choke

The guillotine choke is a front-facing submission that uses the arms and upper body to apply pressure to your opponent’s neck. It is most commonly executed when your opponent lowers their head, such as during a takedown attempt or a transition. By wrapping your arm around the neck and securing a grip, you cut off air or blood flow, leading to a quick tap when done properly.

This submission is effective in both gi and no-gi, making it a valuable tool for practitioners across all styles. It is also a very powerful technique that can be applied by a smaller fighter against a much larger one. Marcelo Garcia was a master of using the choke to win his matches in many absolute divisions.

History and Evolution in BJJ

The guillotine choke originated from traditional grappling arts but was adapted and refined within Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Over time, it became a staple in modern BJJ due to its effectiveness from multiple positions. It was perhaps made famous in BJJ by grappling legend Marcelo Garcia.

In competitive formats such as IBJJF tournaments, the guillotine is frequently used to counter takedowns or finish scrambles. Its continued evolution has led to numerous variations, all focused on improving control, pressure, and finishing percentage.

Types of Guillotine Chokes

High-Elbow Guillotine

The high-elbow guillotine, also known as the Marcelotine, is a variation where you lift your choking elbow high to tighten the seal and increase upward pressure on the neck. This version is particularly effective when your opponent is postured up or in a standing position, such as during a takedown attempt. The elevated elbow makes it harder for your opponent to escape and allows you to finish the choke quickly before they settle into control.

Arm-In Guillotine

The arm-in guillotine includes your opponent’s arm within the choke, offering more control but requiring greater precision. It is best applied when your opponent is trying to pass your guard and exposes an arm. With the correct angle and pressure, it can be extremely difficult to escape.

Standing Guillotine

The standing guillotine is applied while both practitioners are upright, often during clinches or failed takedown attempts. It is a powerful submission when timed correctly, especially as a counter to a double-leg or single-leg shot. Control and balance are key to finishing the choke without being taken down.

Executing the Perfect Guillotine Choke

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Wrap your arm around your opponent’s neck, ensuring your wrist bone is under their throat.
   
   

2. Secure a grip, either palm-to-palm or high-elbow, depending on the variation.
   
   

3. Adjust your body positioning. Drop your hips or pull guard to create the correct angle.
   
   

4. Engage your chest and lat muscles to close any gaps.
   
   

5. Apply pressure by squeezing your arms while using your hips and core to tighten the choke.
   
   

Tips for Precision

Proper hand placement is crucial. The choking arm should be deep, with your wrist under the opponent’s chin, not across the jaw. Maintain tight head control and ensure your own head is positioned correctly to prevent counter-movements.

Angle matters. Turning slightly toward the choking arm side or using your legs in guard will increase pressure. Leverage and body mechanics should be prioritised over brute strength.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistakes to Watch Out For

Many practitioners make the error of incorrect grip placement, which weakens the choke. Others fail to control their opponent’s posture, allowing space to escape. Relying solely on arm strength is another common issue, often leading to fatigue without securing the tap.

Solution-Focused Advice

To improve your guillotine, focus on controlling your opponent’s head and posture before attempting the finish. Drill the correct grip and body angle repeatedly, and avoid rushing into the choke without proper positioning. Use leverage from your whole body rather than isolating the effort to your arms. Regular practice with resistance will build better timing and pressure.

Training Tips from Progress Jiu Jitsu

Quality Training Gear

Wearing the right gear supports effective training. Whether you train in gi or no-gi, comfort and durability are essential when drilling and rolling. Progress Jiu Jitsu’s Gi Collection and No-Gi range are designed to meet the demands of high-level training, allowing you to focus on improving technique without distractions.

Focus Areas for Improvement

To refine your guillotine, drill entries from common scenarios such as takedown defences, scrambles and guard pulls. Spar with partners who provide realistic resistance and help identify timing windows. Reviewing footage of your rolls can also highlight missed opportunities and technical gaps.

Integrate the guillotine into your live training with intention, aiming to develop fluency and adaptability under pressure.

FAQs

Is the guillotine choke effective?
Yes, it is one of the most effective submissions in both gi and no-gi BJJ when applied with proper technique and timing.

How do I know if I’m applying the guillotine choke correctly?
You should feel your opponent’s posture break and their breathing restricted. If they can posture up or turn easily, reassess your grip, angle and pressure.

What should I do if my opponent is defending the guillotine choke?
Adjust your angle, tighten your grip, or transition to a dominant position such as mount. Stay calm and avoid forcing the finish.

How can I improve my guillotine choke finish?
Focus on hand placement, body positioning and timing. Drill with resistance and receive feedback from experienced training partners.

Is the guillotine choke effective in both Gi and No-Gi BJJ?
Yes, it is widely used in both styles and often even more accessible in no-gi due to faster scrambles and takedown attempts.

How can Progress Jiu Jitsu gear enhance my guillotine choke training?
Our gear is designed for durability, mobility and comfort, supporting consistent and high quality training sessions. Whether in gi or no gi, Progress products help you focus on what matters most: technique and performance.