Sankaku-jime 三角絞 (Triangle Choke)
Classification: Katame-waza → Shime-waza (Strangulation Techniques)
Sankaku-jime is one of the most iconic submission techniques in judo and other grappling arts. It is a blood choke that uses the legs in a triangular formation to apply pressure to both sides of the opponent’s neck, compressing the carotid arteries. This leads to a rapid and effective submission if applied correctly.
How to Apply
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Tori lies on their back (aomuke) with uke positioned inside their guard or passing guard.
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Tori wraps their right leg over uke’s left shoulder, so uke’s head and left arm are inside the leg triangle.
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The left leg threads underneath uke’s right armpit or across uke’s upper back, and the left knee folds over the right ankle, creating a tight triangle around uke’s neck.
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Tori grabs their left shin or ankle with their left hand (optional for tightening) and pulls down on uke’s head or extends the hips upward to apply pressure.
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The choke is applied by squeezing the knees together, pulling the heel tight behind the knee, and bridging the hips if needed.
Biomechanics of Sankaku-jime
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F1: The right thigh applies pressure on the left side of uke’s neck.
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F2: The left calf/hamstring presses uke’s own shoulder/arm into the right side of their neck.
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C (Compression point): The carotid arteries are simultaneously compressed on both sides, cutting off blood flow to the brain.
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This results in a vascular choke, not an air choke — unconsciousness may occur in seconds.
Key Details
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Correct angle is crucial: rotate slightly to the side to have uke looking toward their trapped shoulder.
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Foot placement: Never cross your feet — always lock ankle behind knee.
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Keep uke’s trapped arm across their own neck (do not allow them to frame or posture up).
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Hip elevation adds significant power to the strangle.
Applications
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Often used from guard, mount, transition, or counter-attacks.
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Can be combined with juji-gatame or omoplata as part of chaining submissions.
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Also popular in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, making it a versatile and universal technique.
