How to Do the D'Arce Choke in BJJ
Also known as: Brabo choke, No-gi Brabo
The D'Arce choke (also called Brabo choke) is an arm triangle choke where your choking arm goes under the opponent's armpit and around their neck. It's commonly set up from side control, half guard top, or against turtle.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Thread your arm under their armpit and around their neck
- 2 Connect to your bicep with a figure-four grip
- 3 Walk your hips toward their head to tighten
- 4 Squeeze elbows together while chest-to-chest
- 5 Their trapped arm helps create the choke
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Arm not deep enough
- ⚠️ Not walking hips to tighten
- ⚠️ Squeezing before properly set
- ⚠️ Head on wrong side
- ⚠️ Not connecting the hands properly
🔄 Variations
- → Standing D'Arce
- → From half guard
- → Japanese necktie entry
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Frame and create space
- → Roll through
- → Limp arm out
- → Chin tuck
Track Your D'Arce Choke Progress
Log every time you practice the D'Arce Choke 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 D'Arce Choke? ▼
The D'Arce Choke 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.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The D'Arce Choke works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the D'Arce Choke? ▼
The D'Arce Choke is typically executed from side control. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.