How to Do the Clock Choke from Turtle in BJJ
The clock choke is a collar choke applied against a turtled opponent by walking your body around their head like the hands of a clock. By securing a deep collar grip and sprawling your hips while circling, you create intense pressure on the neck. It is a staple technique for attacking the turtle in gi competition.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Get a deep cross-collar grip on the turtled opponent with thumb inside
- 2 Place your near-side knee against their hip for base
- 3 Sprawl your hips back to generate initial pressure
- 4 Walk your body around their head in an arc like a clock hand
- 5 The circular motion and hip pressure finish the choke
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Collar grip not deep enough for effective choking pressure
- ⚠️ Not placing the knee against their hip for stability
- ⚠️ Walking in the wrong direction around the head
- ⚠️ Staying too upright instead of driving hips down
- ⚠️ Not committing fully to the circular walking motion
🔄 Variations
- → With lapel feed
- → Transition to bow and arrow
- → From knee on belly on turtle
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Roll toward the choking arm
- → Sit out to guard
- → Strip the collar grip immediately
- → Stand up and break the grip
Track Your Clock Choke from Turtle Progress
Log every time you practice the Clock Choke from Turtle and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Clock Choke from Turtle? ▼
The Clock Choke from Turtle is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Can I do this technique without a gi? ▼
The Clock Choke from Turtle requires gi grips (collar, sleeve, or lapel) to execute properly. In no-gi, you would need to use alternative grips or different techniques.
How do I set up the Clock Choke from Turtle? ▼
The Clock Choke from Turtle is typically executed from turtle. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.