The Guillotine choke is a chokehold in martial arts and wrestling applied from in front of the opponent. The choke involves using the arms to encircle the opponent's neck in a fashion similar to a guillotine. The technique is either a type of tracheal compression restraint (wind choke) that prevents air flow to the lungs, or a blood choke depending on how it is applied. When executed from the ground, the person applying it will try to control the opponent by the hips, for instance using a closed guard. This is done to prevent the opponent from escaping the hold, and to be able to apply additional pressure by extending the hips. It's a very effective maneuver when performed correctly.
The arm is wrapped around the trachea and the hands are clasped. Pressure is applied upwards to restrict blood flow to the head, causing unconsciousness.
This technique can cause unconsciousness if done correctly. It is taught in various grappling martial arts and is considered universal to grappling, including Jujutsu, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Judo, as well as in mixed martial arts competition and exists as one of the most instinctive chokes possible. In Danzan Ryu, it is also taught as a neck crank.
Description[]
The 2002 Army Combatives manual dictates that the fighter should first ensure that the enemy's head goes underneath one of his arms. The fighter wraps his arm around the enemy's head and under his neck. The fighter's palm should be facing his own chest. With the other hand, the fighter grasps the first hand, ensuring that he has not reached around the enemy's arm, and pulls upward with both hands. He now sits down and places the enemy within his guard, and finishes the choke by pulling with his arms and pushing with his legs.