How to Do the Palm Up Palm Down Choke in BJJ
The palm up palm down choke is a classic cross collar choke variation applied from closed guard. One hand grips the collar palm up while the other grips palm down, creating a scissoring action across the neck. It is one of the most fundamental gi chokes and teaches the principles of collar grip mechanics.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 First hand grips deep in the collar with palm facing up
- 2 Second hand feeds under the first arm gripping palm down
- 3 Pull your elbows back toward your own hips
- 4 Scissor your forearms across both sides of the neck
- 5 Break posture first by pulling with your guard
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Both palms facing the same direction
- ⚠️ Grips not deep enough in the collar
- ⚠️ Not breaking posture before attempting the choke
- ⚠️ Hands too far apart reducing pressure
- ⚠️ Flaring elbows instead of pulling them back
🔄 Variations
- → From mount
- → From knee on belly
- → One-hand variations
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Posture up strongly
- → Two-on-one grip strip
- → Stack pass
- → Open the guard and stand
Track Your Palm Up Palm Down Choke Progress
Log every time you practice the Palm Up Palm Down Choke and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Submissions
View all →Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke (RNC) is one of the most high-percentage submissions in BJJ and MMA. Applied fr...
Triangle Choke
The triangle choke is a signature BJJ submission where you use your legs to form a triangle around y...
Guillotine Choke
The guillotine is a front headlock choke that can be applied standing or on the ground. It's particu...
Bow and Arrow Choke
The bow and arrow choke is one of the tightest collar chokes in BJJ. From back control, you use the ...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Palm Up Palm Down Choke? ▼
The Palm Up Palm Down Choke is typically introduced at the white belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. The beginning of the BJJ journey. Focus on survival, basic positions, and fundamental movements.
Can I do this technique without a gi? ▼
The Palm Up Palm Down Choke 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 Palm Up Palm Down Choke? ▼
The Palm Up Palm Down Choke is typically executed from closed guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.