Choked Out in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: What Should You Worry About?

It's a common occurrence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) to get choked out during training sessions or competitions. Many BJJ practitioners experience this at one point or another, and it's a natural part of the learning process. However, it's essential to understand the implications and precautions to take to ensure a safe and healthy training environment.

Common Experience

Every BJJ fighter knows the sensation of being choked out. Although it may feel like a frightening experience, it's important to remember that it happens to almost everyone. As Sensei Robert Kopishke mentioned, "No, it happens. Learn from the mistakes that got you there and try again. BJJ and most grappling arts you learn the most being nearly choked out, tapped out, and bent into every shape unknown to humans."

Understanding the Process

When you get choked out in BJJ, it's usually a result of training or competition. In a controlled training environment, a good instructor should intervene and prevent the choke from progressing to the point where unconsciousness occurs. In competitions, fighters learn to recognize the signs that it's time to tap out, such as the ringing in the ears. These circumstances are normal and should not cause significant long-term harm if proper techniques and safety measures are followed.

Precautions and Safety Protocols

To minimize the risk of injury and ensure a safe training experience, it's important to take several precautions:

Early Tapping: Develop the habit of tapping out early as soon as you feel the pressure of a submission. This helps prevent the choke from becoming dangerous. Communication: Communicate clearly with your training partner about any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions. If you have any doubts about your ability to handle certain techniques, let your partner know. Proper Technique: Ensure that both you and your training partner are following proper techniques to avoid unintentional harm. Practice safe and controlled training. Certified Instructors: Train with certified and experienced instructors who can guide you safely through various techniques.

That being said, most BJJ chokes, particularly those performed by a skilled practitioner, are generally safe. The key is to recognize the signs and respond appropriately. If you experience dizziness, confusion, or other symptoms after being choked out, seek medical attention immediately.

Risks and Exceptions

While most BJJ chokes are safe, there are a few rare exceptions to be aware of:

Medical Conditions: If you have a pre-existing condition such as a ruptured blood vessel in your brain, a blood choke could potentially cause a stroke. However, such cases are extremely rare. Forced Movements: If the person applying the choke forcefully moves your head back and forth while the choke is locked up, it could result in an arterial dissection. This is another rare but significant risk. Duration of Choke: Holding a choke for an extended period beyond a few seconds could result in injury or, in extreme cases, harm. However, this is generally not the case in BJJ classes unless the instructor is deliberately holding the choke for a longer time for demonstration purposes. Trachea Crush: The possibility of crushing the trachea during a choke is yet another serious risk that requires immediate medical attention. However, since you posted on Quora, you likely do not have this issue.

Final Thoughts

While being choked out can be a daunting experience, it's a normal part of BJJ training. The more you do it, the more likely you'll be choked out again, but this is not a reason to be intimidated. Instead, view it as a learning opportunity.

Remember to follow proper safety protocols, listen to your body, and communicate with your training partners. If you ever have any concerns about your well-being or health, seek medical attention. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of BJJ while minimizing the risks.