How to Do the Power Guillotine in BJJ
The power guillotine is a high-percentage variation of the guillotine choke that emphasizes a chin strap grip and strong hip engagement. Unlike the traditional guillotine, the power version uses a palm-to-palm grip with the blade of the forearm driven into the throat, making it effective even without closing guard.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Secure a chin strap grip with your lead hand wrapping the neck
- 2 Connect a palm-to-palm grip with your other hand
- 3 Drive your hips forward while pulling the head down
- 4 Keep your elbows pinched tight to your body
- 5 Arch your back and look up to finish the choke
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Gripping too loosely around the neck
- ⚠️ Not engaging the hips in the squeeze
- ⚠️ Pulling with arms only instead of using full body
- ⚠️ Allowing opponent to posture up before locking grip
- ⚠️ Head position too far from the opponent
🔄 Variations
- → Standing power guillotine
- → Seated power guillotine
- → With butterfly hooks
- → Half guard power guillotine
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Posture up immediately
- → Von Flue choke counter
- → Pass to side control
- → Stack and extract head
Track Your Power Guillotine Progress
Log every time you practice the Power Guillotine 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 Power Guillotine? ▼
The Power Guillotine 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 Power Guillotine 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 Power Guillotine? ▼
The Power Guillotine is typically executed from front headlock. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.