The Bow and Arrow Choke is a gi-based strangle technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, primarily executed from back control. It utilizes the opponent's collar (lapel) combined with control over their leg or hip to generate a powerful choke. The technique's name originates from the distinctive body positioning, resembling an archer drawing a bowstring, bending the opponent into a bow-like shape. Historically, the Bow and Arrow Choke evolved from Judo's Okuri-Eri-Jime (sliding lapel strangle), specifically the Kuzure (variation) Okuri-Eri-Jime, which incorporates additional limb control. In Brazil, practitioners also refer to it as the "Berimbau choke," referencing the bow-shaped musical instrument.

The Bow and Arrow Choke functions primarily as a blood choke, compressing the carotid arteries on both sides of the opponent's neck to restrict blood flow to the brain. The attacker secures a deep collar grip across the opponent's neck, while the other hand or arm controls the opponent's far leg or hip. Rotating their body perpendicular to the opponent and leaning backward, the attacker creates intense leverage, bending the opponent's spine sideways. This biomechanical advantage significantly enhances the choke's effectiveness, making resistance or escape extremely challenging.

Step 1: Secure a Deep Collar Grip

From back control, slide one hand deeply under the opponent's chin, gripping their far-side collar near the back of their neck or shoulder blade to eliminate slack.

Step 2: Control the Opponent's Leg or Pant Grip

With your free hand, grip the opponent's near-side pant leg at the knee or cuff, or hook your arm deeply behind their knee for maximum control.

Step 3: Rotate Hips Perpendicular

Remove your back mount hook on the collar-grip side and rotate your hips approximately 90 degrees, positioning yourself perpendicular to your opponent's back.

Step 4: Leg Positioning for Added Control

Throw your top leg across the opponent's torso or over their far shoulder, creating additional leverage and control.

Step 5: Finish by Arching Backward

Engage your core, back, and leg muscles (posterior chain) by leaning backward, pulling the collar grip toward your body while simultaneously pulling the opponent's leg in the opposite direction. This action rapidly tightens the choke, often forcing a quick tap or unconsciousness.

Shallow Collar Grip

A shallow grip reduces choke effectiveness. Always slide your hand deeply behind the opponent's collar to eliminate slack.

Poor Leg and Hip Positioning

Positioning hips or legs too low allows the opponent to escape. Keep your hips high near the opponent's shoulders and ensure your leg crosses their torso or shoulder for maximum leverage.

Flaring Choking Elbow

Allowing the choking elbow to flare outward creates space for the opponent to escape. Keep your choking elbow tight against the opponent's chest or shoulder.

Inadequate Pulling Angle and Leverage

Attempting to finish directly behind the opponent without rotating perpendicular limits leverage. Always pivot your body 90 degrees and lean backward to effectively utilize your body weight.

Prevent Initial Grips

Early defense involves preventing the attacker from securing deep collar and pant grips. Keep your chin tucked, monitor your collars, and actively block grip attempts.

Align and Flatten Your Body

If grips are established, immediately straighten and flatten your body to remove the sideways bend. Slide your hips downward and lower your shoulders to reduce choke pressure.

Control the Choking Arm

Use both hands to grip and elevate the attacker's choking elbow upward, relieving pressure and creating space to escape.

Remove Leg Leverage and Turn Inward

Clear the opponent's leg from your torso or shoulder, then rotate inward toward the choking arm side. Turning inward can help you escape the choke and potentially reverse the position.

The Bow and Arrow Choke is a high-percentage submission frequently utilized in gi-based competitions, particularly IBJJF-style tournaments. Competitors often initiate it from back control after securing points for hooks. It is effective from various positions, including turtle, knee-on-belly, and transitional scenarios. Practitioners commonly apply it opportunistically when opponents defend other chokes, transitioning seamlessly into the Bow and Arrow configuration. Due to its strong control and high finish rate, it remains a favored submission among elite competitors, regularly featured in major tournaments such as the 2023 IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship.