How to Get out of a Wrestling Choke

A choke hold is when an attacker places an arm around your neck in an attempt to render you helpless by applying pressure to the carotid artery. This is a dangerous hold that can lead to incapacitation and even death. While the move can be disabling, with quick thinking and the right counter moves, you can escape the choke hold before your attacker has the opportunity to cause any damage.

Instructions

    • 1

      Push your fingers beneath the arm as soon as you feel it circle your neck. Push them up as far as possible, with the goal to seat your fingers near the side of your face. This will put a solid block between your attacker's arm and your neck, making it more difficult for your attacker to apply enough pressure to cause damage.

    • 2

      Place your free hand on the arm around your neck and step or turn in the opposite direction of the attack. If your attacker is using his left arm, move to the right. Turning your body will throw off your attacker's balance and buy you a few seconds to make your escape.

    • 3

      Pull your upper body downward and raise your shoulders at the same moment you are turning. The turning motion of your body creates a gap that will allow you to slip from beneath your attacker's arm.