Grapple Smarter, Not Harder: Mastering the Guillotine Choke
Hey there, chain grapplers! Let's dive into the world of chokes, specifically, the almighty Guillotine Choke. This move isn't just about flaunting your strength; it's a chess game, a brain teaser with muscles. Let's break down why the Guillotine Choke is a must-have in your grappling arsenal, especially if you're the brainy type who likes to win with smarts.
The Element of Surprise: Catch 'Em When They Least Expect It
First off, the Guillotine is the king of surprise attacks. It's like that plot twist in your favorite thriller – you never see it coming until it's too late. When your opponent shoots in for a takedown, they're often so focused on getting your legs that they forget about their neck. Big mistake. That’s when you swoop in with the Guillotine, turning their aggressive move into your victory dance.
Versatility: The Swiss Army Knife of Chokes
Versatility is another feather in the cap of the Guillotine. You can apply it from standing, guard, half guard... heck, even when you're in a seemingly disadvantageous position. For the smaller grapplers, women, and the over-40 warriors among us, this is your secret weapon. It's not about brute force; it's about being slick, quick, and a step ahead.
Technique Over Power: A Brain Game
The Guillotine Choke is a beautiful reminder that technique trumps brute strength. It's perfect for those who believe in the "grapple smarter, not harder" mantra. You don’t need to be the Hulk to make it work. It's all about the finesse – hand placement, angle, and timing. It's like a delicate dance where one wrong step by your opponent leads to their downfall.
Training Your Mind and Body
Training for the Guillotine Choke also sharpens your mind. You learn to read your opponent, anticipate their moves, and think a few steps ahead. It's mental gymnastics with physical benefits. Plus, practicing this choke improves your grip strength, neck stability, and overall body coordination.
Safety First: Injury Prevention
A word of caution – while the Guillotine is a fantastic tool, it's also potent. Practicing it responsibly is key to preventing injuries, both to yourself and your training partners. Remember, we're in this for the long haul, and keeping everyone safe is part of playing the game smart.
Conclusion: A Must-Have Technique
In conclusion, the Guillotine Choke is not just a submission; it's a statement. It says you value brain over brawn, strategy over sheer power. It's ideal for those who may not be the biggest or strongest in the room but are definitely the smartest. So, keep drilling, stay alert, and remember – in the world of grappling, it's the smart moves that make champions.
Stay sharp, chain grapplers, and remember: grapple smarter, not harder!
Below are a couple of my favorite videos about getting to the guillotine in unexpected ways:
Guillotine Mechanics: https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkx51798da1fJpgHbHbQSNDTTZ30LN9X1Zv?si=SVyayGBRb5kkZAe3
Guillotine Preventing Escape: https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxQtFurExCNI0dbfSbtt14LxTfz2sibvuk?si=Y0--mXxd4z8qIlD_
From back to guillotine: https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkx6HN5HrlFBCwI95M3qMz-27qm1PO158qu?si=3cLg1YoyrBFlcQWF