Front Headlock: The Control Hub for Chokes, Back Takes, and Takedowns

What Is the Front Headlock and Why It Matters

The front headlock is a chest-to-head-and-arm control where you angle off the opponent’s head and often one arm. Your forearm frames under their chin or neck while your hands connect in front, allowing you to bend their posture, steer their shoulders, and limit their ability to shoot or stand. You’ll see it from sprawls, snap-downs, failed shots, turtle, seated guard, and front head-to-head ties.

It matters because it converts defensive moments into immediate offense. If someone shoots a takedown or rises from turtle, a well-timed front headlock gives you dominant angles for chokes, back exposure, or easy finishes to the mat. At every level—hobbyist to competitor—the front headlock is a reliable way to slow a bout, score control, and create submissions.

Front Headlock Videos on BJJ University (Top 20 Videos, Top 10 Courses)

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Front Headlock Escapes

1m · Not Mapped

This YouTube video is a brief instructional guide on how to escape from a front headlock position. The instructor demonstrates three different methods to escape a front headlock. The first method involves driving hips into the opponent's hips and elevating the head, which disrupts their ability to finish the choke. The second strategy incorporates getting hands on the opponent and tucking the elbow as tightly as possible while diverting to the side. The final method is useful when the grip is tight; a palm strike to the groin loosens the grip, offering a chance to escape.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Escapes

Lock Up Anaconda Chokes EASIER 🥋 #bjj #brazilianjiujitsu #jiujitsu

14s · Jordan Teaches Jiujitsu

The video instructs on a common mistake and the correct way to perform an Anaconda Choke from a Front Headlock position. The instructor highlights that many practitioners make the mistake of locking the choke first before rolling their opponent, making it hard to roll them. Instead, one should use a Gable grip, pull the opponent's arm in, then roll, lock it up, and finish the choke.

Technique: Anaconda Choke Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

PREMIUM

Systematically Attacking The Front Headlock by Gordon Ryan

$349.00 • BJJ Fanatics

In this 8-part instructional video, Gordon Ryan presents an advanced system for attacking from the front headlock position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He demonstrates how to conduct elite attacks such as guillotines, anacondas, and d'arces, and counters to common defenses. He also underlines the key differences between wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu when it comes to executing front headlock techniques. Gordon shares top-tier finishing and control concepts, and provides strategies on defeating defensive reactions from opponents.

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Choking Mechanics You WON'T Learn In Class... D'arce, Anaconda & Arm-In Gui…

17m · Jordan Teaches Jiujitsu

This video is a detailed instructional by "Jordan Teaches Jiujitsu" about the D'arce Choke, Anaconda Choke, and Arm-In Guillotine submissions from the Front Headlock position. The instructor emphasizes that these submissions form a network through a strategy he calls the "front headlock choke system," allowing for switches and adaptations based on personal preference and opponent reactions. The instructor dedicates much of the video to explaining the importance of precise choking mechanics, including proper choke bites, elbow positioning, and rotational pressure. The video concludes with entries into the front headlock.

Technique: Guillotine Choke Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

The High Elbow Guillotine by John Danaher

12m · John Danaher

In this YouTube video, John Danaher explains the intricacies of a High Elbow Guillotine starting from a Front Headlock position. He outlines the main problems that students encounter when attempting this move, including issues of shoulder and elbow placement. He emphasizes the importance of keeping the head forward, pushing the strangle-side shoulder forward while keeping the elbow back to maintain space and avoid countermeasures by the opponent. He then demonstrates the technique step by step, highlighting the importance of placing the support hand between the opponent's shoulder and neck.

Technique: Guillotine Choke Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

PREMIUM

The Pillars of Defense: Turtle & Front Headlock Escapes by Gordon Ryan

$349.00 • BJJ Fanatics

The video, "The Pillars of Defense: Turtle & Front Headlock Escapes" by Gordon Ryan, provides a detailed system to escape from turtle and front headlocks. The tutorial emphasizes techniques such as peak outs, 4 points, and transitioning to half guard. The video demonstrates how to roll to guard and escape from turtle with specific tips for staying safe and preventing hooks. This systematic approach helps viewers learn to break free from front headlocks as efficiently as possible, with the added benefit of featuring gym footage and breakdowns of each step.

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How To Do The Perfect Front Headlock And Turtle Escapes by Gordon Ryan

7m · Gordon Ryan

In this video, Gordon Ryan discusses the concept of escaping from front headlock and turtle positions. He highlights the crucial differences between wrestling and jiu-jitsu and emphasizes how to infuse applicable techniques from wrestling into jiu-jitsu. He underscores the need to first prevent getting submitted, especially noting the importance of hand positioning to address potential guillotines. Finally, he demonstrates how these escapes can transition into a guard position or a standing position.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Escapes

Finish More Subs in Front Headlock with This 3 Choke Attack Sequence

7m · Chewjitsu

This YouTube video demonstrates a sequence of three chokes from the front headlock position: Anaconda, D'arce and Guillotine. The demonstrator goes over well-detailed instructions and explanations of how to perform each choke and how they can be transitioned from one to the other seamlessly. Emphasis is put on maintaining constant pressure and proper positioning, which include precise gripping and specific directions of body movements. These chokes are presented as a continual flow, designed in a way that if one fails, the technique can easily transition to the next, optimizing chances of submission.

Technique: Guillotine Choke Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

PREMIUM

Master The Move: The Straight Arm Bar Ude Gatame - The Fastest Arm Lock by John Danaher

$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics

In this instructional video, BJJ expert John Danaher provides detailed guidance on executing and applying the Straight Arm Lock (Ude Gatame), a crucial submission move in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Danaher emphasizes understanding the positional opportunities and benefits offered by this move. The video is part of the "Master the Move" series, aiming to dissect positions into subtle and crucial details. The series features intense and comprehensive instructions to level up the viewers' straight arm lock techniques.

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No Gi Principle Everyone Should Know - Garry Tonon

5m · Garry Tonon

The video features instructor Garry Tonon explaining the principle of Multi-Directional Attack in a No-Gi setting. He starts with a Front Headlock Position and talks about the shortcoming of attacking in a single direction. He then proceeds to demonstrate how introducing additional attack directions (like tripping or moving behind the opponent) can increase the effectiveness of your attacks and make it more unpredictable. The principle is related to a broader discussion about principles underpinning jiu-jitsu techniques, with the aim to understand how various techniques are connected and how they can be applied in multiple directions. The idea is to offer students techniques as well as foundational principles underlying those techniques.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Concepts/Strategy

Best No-Gi Submission for Wrestlers: The Anaconda Choke | B-Team Technique

3m · Nicky Rod

The video features BJJ practitioner Nicky Rod explaining and demonstrating the Anaconda Choke submission from a front head position which is suitable for wrestlers, especially in no-gi situations. He demonstrates the choke in detail, explaining the importance of controlling the opponent's head and armpit, using a Gable grip, pinching your opponent's elbow inwards and rolling for defence, amongst several other specific steps. The technique is displayed several times with emphasis on various steps to ensure clarity. The instructor emphasises that the Anaconda choke is a versatile submission that should be used across all experience levels, from white belt to black belt.

Technique: Anaconda Choke Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

PREMIUM

Michael Pixleys Complete Front Headlock System by Michael Pixley and Heath Pedigo

$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics

In the video, Michael Pixley and Heath Pedigo teach 'Michael Pixley's Complete Front Headlock System'. This system is not just a collection of techniques but also provides understanding of the principles that make the front headlock a dominant control position in BJJ. With Pixley's experience in BJJ and wrestling and Pedigo's successful coaching methods, they provide in-depth knowledge that can elevate anyone's grappling game, from beginners to seasoned competitors.

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EASY SUCKER DRAG Escape from Front Headlock #bjj #grappling #jiujitsu

23s · John Connors

In this video, instructor John Connors demonstrates an easy escape from the front headlock position known as the "Sucker Drag". Starting from a front headlock, the defender posts on the attacker's hip while controlling the attacker's elbow. Then, the defender moves their head from the attacker's armpit to under the chest on the other side. This move sets up a drag which can ultimately lead to taking the attacker's back.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Escapes

Top 4 Chokes From Front Headlock Series For Self Defense · BJJ · MMA

5m · TRITAC Martial Arts

This instructional video on Youtube, presented by TRITAC Martial Arts, explores various techniques from the Front Headlock position. It demonstrates how to establish a secure front headlock, then proceeds to teach four different chokes from this position: a standing guillotine choke, a snap down to rolling choke or the rolling choke takedown and an ankle pick to mounted front headlock choke. The instructor emphasises the importance of control and weight distribution during each move and gives specific details on hand position for executing each choke effectively.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

PREMIUM

Only Way Out: Front Headlock and Turtle Escapes by Brian Glick

$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics

In this instructional video, Brian Glick teaches effective escapes from two dominant positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: front headlock and turtle. Known for his cogent teaching style, Brian breaks down each escape into simple, digestible steps. This video provides a thorough understanding of the conceptual principles underpinning these escapes and is useful for practitioners of all levels. Through these lessons, learners can enhance their defensive skills and build a solid foundation for responding to these frequently encountered positions.

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Incredible Front Headlock Attacks by Gordon Ryan

4m · Gordon Ryan

This video features submission specialist Gordon Ryan detailing various front headlock attacks. Ryan emphasizes the importance of playing a dilemma game - urging the opponent to expose their neck to Guillotines, D'arces anacondas strangles or get caught in go-behinds. He illustrates how he uses the threat of the submission to maneuver behind his opponent and attack their back. Furthermore, he explains how this technique can be integrated into guard play, serving as a powerful counter to opponents who stall.

Technique: Guillotine Choke Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

Gordon Ryan Full 1 Hour Seminar Q+A

54m · Gordon Ryan

This YouTube video is from a seminar held by esteemed BJJ competitor, Gordon Ryan. Throughout the talk, he discusses the importance of the front headlock position, not just as a setup but as a major part of advanced competition strategy. He further explains that in competition, fewer opponents accept takedowns and as wrestling improves in the sport, the front headlock tends to become more important. Specifically, Gordon outlines how he uses the front headlock from a standard position as well as from the guard, using the hip heist as the main setup. He also examines a scenario of escaping a front headlock while down in the turtle position.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Concepts/Strategy

PREMIUM

The Front Headlock System by John Danaher

$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics

This video features instruction from renowned coach John Danaher on his system for executing a front headlock. Highlighting its effectiveness in both Gi and No-Gi situations, and for self-defense, John explains the game-changing nature of this technique. The video also explains how the system has been used by UFC champs like Georges St Pierre and Chris Weidman, and grappling icons like Garry Tonon, Eddie Cummings, and Gordon Ryan. The front headlock system can revolutionize the BJJ game of any practitioner.

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Snap Down To The Front Headlock By Michael Pixley

1m · Michael Pixley

This video features BJJ instructor Michael Pixley demonstrating the technique of a snap down leading into a front headlock. The move starts from a collar tie, where Pixley teaches how to use a wrist roll and a foot sweep fake to unsettle the opponent. Once the opponent is unsettled, Pixley shows how to snap them down and seamlessly transition into a front headlock. Additionally, he explains the importance of executing these movements with proper timing and direction.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Takedowns/Stand‑Up

Gordon Ryan Front Headlock Escape @GracieJiuJitsuMD

56s · Gordon Ryan

In this video, Instructor Gordon Ryan demonstrates multiple variations of escaping from a Front Headlock in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. He shows how to peel off a chin strap hand, force the opponent to lock hands, and then use defensive hands to start moving out of the hold. He also explains how to bait an opponent into an anaconda grip, subsequently making an escape. In addition, he demonstrates a traditional wrestling escape if the opponent isn't being aggressive.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Escapes

PREMIUM

Mexican Ground Karate Escapes Volume 1: Front Headlock Escapes by Craig Jones

$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics

In this instructional video, BJJ expert and ADCC Finalist Craig Jones shares his methods of escaping from front headlocks - a common position in grappling. He explains several submission escapes to evade techniques such as the guillotine and darce chokes. The instruction is based on strategies he has shared with UFC Champion Alexander Volkanovski, which can give confidence to the viewer in escaping serious submission threat from the front headlock position.

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Attacking from Front Headlock with Nicky Ryan

10m · Nicky Ryan

In this instructional video, Nicky Ryan presents a detailed mini-series on the front headlock position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Initially, he outlines common mistakes made by practitioners when attacking from this position, notably their over-reliance on strangles. The main focus of the video is the Seated Katakatame technique which is effective when hand fighting or when it's difficult to get underneath the opponent's chin. Ryan demonstrates the technique step by step, explaining the importance of securing a proper grip, positioning, and the application of pressure for a successful submission.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

Jiu Jitsu needs this! Wrestling insights from the front headlock

9m · Less Impressed More Involved BJJ

The video elaborates on how to improve skills from the front headlock position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by incorporating wrestling insights. It breaks down the similarities and differences between the back control and front headlock positions and the vulnerability of each control in BJJ. The instructor points out the escape routes for the person being controlled and explains how the attacker can anticipate and counter them. Emphasis is put on the intuitive use of head position to block escape attempts, especially during the short drag escape.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Transitions

PREMIUM

Essential Connections: Chest To Back - In Front of the Elbows by Giancarlo Bodoni

$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics

The video features 2022 ADCC World Champion, Giancarlo Bodoni, teaching how to dominate and control in position by mastering front headlock control. The tutorial highlights powerful submissions, takedown techniques that are associated with the front headlock position. Giancarlo demonstrates various setups and entries into the front headlock from standing or grounded positions. He also provides guidance on how to maintain control by getting behind an opponent and putting them to a hip for quick and easy back takes.

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The 'Lazy' Catch Wrestling Trick That Taps Black Belts

11m · Josh Barnett

Former UFC Champion Josh Barnett teaches an effective catch wrestling trick, a front headlock choke, known for its stealthy "invisible" approach. Barnett positions his arm on the opponent's shoulder, posturing it as a "Post" or "Anchor", and applies the choke by rolling the wrist towards the opponent's windpipe. The choke is designed to feel harmless, allowing it to catch an opponent off-guard. He also demonstrates how to apply this choke from the ground or guard, emphasizing its versatility.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

Omoplata to Front Headlock by Ryan Hall

22s · Ryan Hall

In the video, instructor Ryan Hall demonstrates a transition technique from Omoplata to Front Headlock position in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This approach allows a practitioner to take advantage of a defensive posture to shift swiftly into a controlling position. Ryan Hall emphasizes on the importance of timing, fluidity, and understanding of body mechanics for successful execution of the move.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Transitions

PREMIUM

The Art of Crushing Pressure by Terry Brands

$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics

This instructional video features renowned wrestling coach, Olympic Medalist and World Champion, Terry Brands. He teaches what he refers to as "Crushing Pressure" applied from the front headlock position. The lessons include how to effectively shut down the opponents' single leg, double leg, high crotches attacks and more. Brands also shares some insights on winning the front headlock position, re-attacking with down blocks and re-shots, inclusive of drills and variations to improve faster.

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3 Tips to make your front headlock tighter. Wrestling for BJJ

20s · Mack Chambers

In this video, Wrestling for BJJ coach Mack Chambers teaches viewers how to make their front headlock tighter. He provides three key pieces of advice: tightly cup the chin, pinch your elbow, and apply pressure with your shoulder into the opponent's spine. By following these steps, Mack assures viewers will be able to perform more effective takedowns.

Position: Front Headlock Category: Positional Control

Jiu Jitsu Front Headlock System

46s · Brandon Mccaghren

This video by Brandon Mccaghren teaches viewers how to effectively utilize the Front Headlock position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He discusses a progression of submissions techniques — the Anaconda Choke, Guillotine, and Armbar — based on the opponent's movements and reactions. This video explained in detail how to transition from one technique to another based on the situation, which gives viewers a comprehensive Front Headlock system to use in their matches.

Technique: Armbar Position: Front Headlock Category: Submissions

PREMIUM

Front Head Lock: Control, Submissions and Transitions by Kaynan Duarte

$147.00 • BJJ Fanatics

In this video, Kaynan Duarte provides an in-depth tutorial on controlling, submitting, and transitioning from the Front Head Lock position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The video addresses both beginners and seasoned competitors, aiming to sharpen their grappling skills. Instruction involves every aspect of the Front Head Lock, equipping viewers to control opponents, secure submissions, and improve their transitions effectively. Kaynan's guidance can help anyone incorporate a high-percentage, powerful weapon into their BJJ repertoire.

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Core Objectives for Top and Bottom Players

Top player objectives: break posture, angle off, and make their hands post. Establish a chin strap or necktie, manage the near-side elbow, and keep your shoulder weight on the back of the head or crown. Your next steps are clear: attack chokes, force them to a hip, spin to the back, or run them into a takedown such as a knee tap or snap to go-behind.

Bottom player objectives: re-establish posture and frames, win inside ties, and put a knee or foot between you and your opponent. Hand fight early—peel the chin strap, address the choking arm, and square your hips. Your first milestones are to get your head up, elbow back inside, and either stand to neutral, re-guard to seated, or shoot underneath to a leg if space appears.

Attacks, Transitions, and Control Principles

Primary submissions: high-elbow guillotine, arm-in guillotine, D’Arce, and anaconda. Each depends on angle and shoulder placement: your shoulder should point into the back of their head as your elbows cinch and your ribs compress their head toward the trapped arm. Finishes improve when your hips are close, your elbows are tight, and you remove slack before committing to the squeeze.

Key transitions: snap-down to go-behind for back exposure, front headlock to cradle for top pins, and spin-behind to seatbelt. From turtle, spiral rides and knee taps work well when their hands are forced to the mat. From standing, a heavy snap followed by a shuck or inside trip can convert control into a clean takedown.

Control tips: keep the head low and turned, angle your body toward the trapped arm, and use your legs to block their knees or hips. Avoid reaching long with your arms—connect your chest, shoulder, and hips so your frame is your whole body, not just your grip. Hand fighting matters: reinforce your chin strap with a secondary grip (palm-to-palm, S-grip, or wrist control) and constantly adjust to keep your opponent’s posts compromised.

Escapes and Common Defensive Reactions

Immediate priorities: posture first, then hands. Get your forehead or crown up, turn your chin to daylight, and fight the choking arm with two-on-one control. If your elbow is trapped, pummel it back inside and square your stance.

Positional exits: from turtle, build to a base with an inside post, then stand or sit to a guard like butterfly or seated open guard. From a sprawled position, walk your hips back, tripod up, and peel the chin strap while circling to face. If the opponent sits to finish a guillotine, address the hands, drive your shoulder across their belly line, and pass to the far side to relieve pressure.

Common mistakes to avoid: rolling prematurely into the choke, reaching with your near arm (which exposes D’Arce and anaconda), and trying to stand with your head down. Build layers: posture, hand fight, elbow recovery, then movement.

What to Study First

Start with entries and posture breaks: learn a clean sprawl, two or three reliable snap-downs, and how to turn the opponent’s head toward their trapped arm. Drill the chin strap, palm-to-palm, and high-elbow grip transitions without rushing the finish.

Add one submission per subfamily: a basic high-elbow guillotine, a fundamental arm-in guillotine, a standard D’Arce, and anaconda. Learn the finishing cues: lock choice, elbow direction, hip positioning, and when to abandon and transition.

Link to transitions: practice go-behinds off failed chokes, back takes when they sit to their hip, and knee taps from standing front headlock. End each rep with either a finish or a dominant positional score so you build decision speed under resistance.

Round out with core escapes: two-on-one peel to posture, elbow pummel recovery, and the sit-to-guard reset. Defensive reps make your offense safer by revealing common counters before you meet them live.

Using BJJ University to Study the Front Headlock

BJJ University is a free, curated learning hub where you can browse videos, clips, and breakdowns organized by instructor, technique, position, category, and training topic. Use the navigation menu to jump between front headlock chokes, entries, and transitions, or compare explanations from different coaches in one place.

Explore the front headlock position page to find playlists on guillotines, D’Arce and anaconda mechanics, snap-down chains, and go-behinds. You can also browse by instructor to see how various teachers approach the same core principles. Bookmark the site and share it with teammates or friends who want more free BJJ learning resources—then come back after training to review what you drilled. Browse this page on BJJ University.

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Related BJJ University Pages

• 1Front Headlock main page: Direct access to curated front headlock videos, clips, and breakdowns by attack family and entry type.
• 2All BJJ positions: Browse related positions like turtle, back control, and open guard to connect your front headlock to broader systems.
• 3De La Riva Guard Position Guide: Compare related BJJ University position study guides.
• 4Guard Head Quarters Position Guide: Compare related BJJ University position study guides.