Inside Sankaku (Triangle) Position: A Versatile Attack from Bottom Guard

The inside sankaku, or triangle choke, is a versatile attack from the bottom guard that can be used to catch your opponent off guard and secure a submission. In this article, we will break down the position and show you six ways to use it to your advantage.

Setting up the Inside Sankaku:

The first step to executing the inside sankaku is to set it up properly. You can do this by breaking your opponent’s posture, controlling one of their arms, and creating an opening for your leg to slip through and lock in the triangle. Be patient and wait for the right moment to strike.

Tightening the Triangle:

Once you’ve locked in the triangle, you need to make sure it’s tight enough to finish the submission. You can do this by adjusting the angle of your hips and squeezing your thighs together. Pulling down on your opponent’s head or arm can also help to create more pressure.

Finishing the Submission:

To finish the inside sankaku, you need to cut off the blood flow to your opponent’s brain by squeezing their carotid artery with your legs. You can also use your arms to create more pressure by pulling down on your opponent’s head or arm.

Countering Common Defenses:

Your opponent will likely try to defend against the inside sankaku by stacking you, posturing up, or trying to pry your legs apart. You can counter these defenses by adjusting your angle, switching to a different submission, or using your free leg to control your opponent’s arm.

Transitioning to other Positions:

The inside sankaku can also be used as a transition to other positions, such as the back or mount. To do this, you need to release the triangle and use your momentum to take your opponent’s back or climb up to mount.

When to use the Inside Sankaku:

The inside sankaku is a high-percentage submission that can be used in a variety of situations. It’s especially effective against opponents who are postured up or trying to pass your guard. However, it’s important to use the inside sankaku responsibly and avoid applying excessive pressure to your opponent’s knee.