Kata-Gatame/ Head and arm choke/ Arm Triangle choke is used as a hold down in Judo, and it is mostly used as a choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts.

There are many schools of thought regarding the best positioning for the top attacking partner. Some advocate laying flat on the ground with the hips low. Others prefer turning to a 90 degree angle, while others like to put a knee on the ground and drive forward.

Luta Livre, the Brazilian No Gi grappling art that comes from Catch Wrestling has an interesting approach to arm triangles which differs from BJJ.

Luta Livre black belt Nicolas Renier is arguably the most accomplished No Gi Grappler in Europe, having been Fila World Grappling champion, and being the only European to participate in 6 ADCCs. He teaches in Paris, in his club called NRFight Club.

Here is what Niolas Renier has to say about Luta Livre and how it differs from No Gi Jiu-Jitsu:

Luta Livre is a combat sport in its own right, it has a history, its own techniques, an international federation with grades … It can be practiced in kimono pants or shorts with a rash guard. I find Luta Livre really effective, it goes straight to the goal which is to submit, we are not trying to adopt the set format from BJJ​​ which is pass the guard, stabilize cross position, take the mount … We always try to surprise the opponent by going where he does not expect.

Training Report: Luta Livre, NR Fight Club in Paris, France

Nicolas made this interesting video showing how to set up a armless arm-triangle from a guard passing position.  He has a very sneaky way of setting it up. He uses a reverse RNC grip:

Learn the Luta Livre submission secrets that will make you a submission hunter.

• ADCC Veteran and Luta Livre fighter Nicolas Renier will change the way you FINISH your techniques.
• See why Lutra Livre is the perfect mix of catch wrestling and submission grappling.