Strangles and Two-Handed Grabs

Introduction It is quite uncommon for an aggressor to begin an attack with a two-handed strangle attempt; it is typically used as a murderous finishing technique. Two-handed lapel grabs are more common, and are often used to set up a headbutt.

Break One Side

It may be possible to break one side of the grab or strangle by peeling one hand off you. This will make most strangles ineffective, but you need to take the initiative and fight your way out of the situation before the strangle hold can be re-established. One option is to loop your arm over the opponent’s and push down against your chest, pulling his grip off you and trapping his hand.

Wedge Block

A two-handed grab can be dislodged with a ‘wedge block’, driving your hands close together and upwards between the opponent’s arms. As your hands get higher, they spread further apart and push one or both of the opponent’s hands off you. This is best followed up by a head grab and knee strikes.

An aggressor who gets hold of your throat may strangle you without intending to. It is imperative to get the grip off your neck as fast as possible.

As with all grab attempts, you may be able to force the attacker to let go by attacking his head or by counterattacking with a knee hit.