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Gogoplata | Submission | BJJ Graph

Oct 25, 202534 min read

LLM Context: Submission Data Structure

Purpose: The Gogoplata is an air choke submission from high guard positions. It’s a terminal state resulting in breathing obstruction. Safety is paramount - this technique applies pressure directly to the trachea.

Setup Requirements Checklist:

  • Starting position: Rubber Guard (S035) or high guard established
  • Position control quality: Extreme guard control with high flexibility
  • Required grips: Head control, foot positioned at throat
  • Angle optimization: Leg behind head, shin across throat
  • Opponent vulnerability: Posture completely broken, head pulled down
  • Space elimination: No escape angle for opponent to pull back
  • Timing recognition: Opponent’s head pulled extremely low

Defense Awareness:

  • Early defense (setup <70% complete): 50% escape success - maintain posture, prevent leg behind head
  • Hand fighting (leg positioning, not locked): 35% escape success - push leg away, restore posture
  • Technical escape (shin on throat but loose): 25% escape success - pull head back explosively
  • Inevitable submission (shin tight on throat, secured): 0% escape → TAP IMMEDIATELY

Safety Q&A Patterns: Q: “How fast should pressure be applied?” A: “VERY SLOW and progressive. This is a throat choke - minimum 4-6 seconds. Never explosive. This can damage the trachea if applied incorrectly.”

Q: “What are the tap signals?” A: “Verbal ‘tap’, physical tap with hands on opponent/mat, physical tap with feet, ANY distress signal. This choke can obstruct breathing - watch partner closely.”

Q: “What if my partner doesn’t tap?” A: “STOP IMMEDIATELY if: partner cannot breathe, partner makes choking sounds, partner’s eyes show panic. Release and check airway.”

Q: “What are the injury risks?” A: “Trachea damage (serious), throat injury (painful), breathing obstruction (immediate danger), larynx damage (severe). This is one of the more dangerous submissions.”

Decision Tree for Execution:

IF rubber_guard_established AND leg_behind_head AND flexibility_adequate:
    → Attempt gogoplata setup (Success Rate: [skill_level]%)
ELIF shin_on_throat AND head_controlled:
    → Apply VERY slow pressure (4-6 seconds minimum)
    → WATCH FOR TAP AND BREATHING CONTINUOUSLY
ELIF tap_signal_received OR breathing_distress:
    → RELEASE IMMEDIATELY per protocol
    → Check partner's throat and breathing
ELSE:
    → Maintain guard, this submission requires extreme setup

⚠️ SAFETY NOTICE

This submission can cause TRACHEA DAMAGE and BREATHING OBSTRUCTION if applied improperly.

  • Injury Risks:
    • Trachea damage (can be permanent)
    • Throat injury (days to weeks recovery)
    • Breathing obstruction (immediate medical emergency)
    • Larynx damage (serious injury requiring medical treatment)
  • Application Speed: VERY SLOW and progressive. 4-6 seconds minimum from pressure initiation to tap.
  • Tap Signals: Verbal “tap”, physical tap with hands/feet on opponent or mat, ANY sign of breathing distress
  • Release Protocol:
    1. Remove shin from throat immediately (stop all pressure)
    2. Release head control completely
    3. Open guard and create space
    4. Check partner’s breathing and throat
    5. Monitor for 30+ seconds for any breathing difficulties
  • Training Requirement: Advanced practitioners only, with instructor supervision
  • Never: Apply explosive pressure - this is a throat/trachea choke and can cause serious injury

Remember: This is one of the more dangerous submissions in BJJ. Your training partner’s airway is at risk. Apply with extreme caution and release at the first sign of tap or distress.

Overview

The Gogoplata is an advanced, high-flexibility submission executed from high guard or rubber guard positions. Unlike most chokes that target the carotid arteries, the Gogoplata applies direct pressure to the trachea (windpipe) using the shin or instep across the opponent’s throat. This makes it an air choke rather than a blood choke.

The technique requires exceptional flexibility to position the leg behind the opponent’s head while maintaining guard control. The practitioner uses one leg to trap the opponent’s head and applies pressure with the shin/instep while pulling the head down with the arms. The compression of the trachea creates immediate breathing difficulty, forcing a quick tap.

The Gogoplata gained prominence in modern MMA and no-gi competition, particularly through Eddie Bravo’s rubber guard system. It’s a low-percentage submission in gi due to friction and positioning challenges, but becomes more viable in no-gi with proper flexibility and setup.

Submission Properties

From Rubber Guard (S035):

Success Rates:

  • Beginner: 15%
  • Intermediate: 30%
  • Advanced: 50%

Technical Characteristics:

  • Setup Complexity: High - requires extreme flexibility and precise positioning
  • Execution Speed: Medium - 4-6 seconds from shin placement to tap
  • Escape Difficulty: Medium - opponent can escape with proper posture or by backing out
  • Damage Potential: High - direct trachea pressure can cause serious injury
  • Target Area: Trachea (windpipe) and throat

Visual Finishing Sequence

With your right leg hooked behind the opponent’s head (zombie position), you position your shin or instep across their throat. Your hands control the back of their head, pulling it down toward your chest. The opponent’s throat is compressed between your shin and your pulling arms.

Your opponent experiences immediate pressure on their windpipe, difficulty breathing, and the sensation of choking. Their airway is restricted. Recognizing the submission is locked and breathing is compromised, they tap repeatedly with both hands. You immediately remove your shin from their throat, release head control, and open your guard while checking their breathing.

Body Positioning:

  • Your position: On your back, one leg behind opponent’s head, shin/instep across throat, hands pulling head down, other leg hooking for control
  • Opponent’s position: Posture broken, head pulled extremely low, throat compressed, limited ability to back out or posture up
  • Key pressure points: Trachea (primary), throat structures (secondary)
  • Leverage creation: Leg flexibility + head pull + shin pressure create compression against trachea

Setup Requirements

Conditions that must be satisfied before attempting:

  1. Position Establishment: Rubber Guard (S035) or extreme high guard with leg behind opponent’s head

  2. Control Points:

    • One leg hooked behind opponent’s head (zombie position)
    • Hands controlling back of head
    • Other leg hooking opponent’s back for balance
    • Opponent’s posture completely broken

  3. Angle Creation:

    • Leg positioned high enough to get behind head
    • Shin/instep can reach throat area
    • Head pulled down low enough for pressure
    • Balance maintained to prevent toppling

  4. Grip Acquisition:

    • Both hands on back of opponent’s head
    • Strong pulling ability to keep head down
    • Control of opponent’s posture
    • Foot positioned correctly at throat

  5. Space Elimination:

    • Opponent cannot back out of position
    • Head trapped in low position
    • No angle to posture up
    • Shin/instep positioned on trachea

  6. Timing Recognition:

    • Opponent’s head is very low in guard
    • Flexibility allows leg behind head
    • Opponent cannot prevent zombie setup
    • Balance and position allow full extension

  7. Safety Verification:

    • Partner aware of unusual submission type
    • Partner has flexibility to handle position
    • Clear tap signals established (verbal important)
    • Understanding this is throat/airway choke

Position Quality Required: Rubber guard or high guard must be extremely tight with opponent’s posture completely broken. Requires significant flexibility from practitioner.

Execution Steps

SAFETY REMINDER: Apply pressure VERY SLOWLY over 4-6 seconds. This is a throat choke - watch for breathing distress continuously. Monitor partner’s face and listen for breathing sounds.

Step-by-Step Execution

  1. Initial Setup (Zombie Position)

    • From rubber guard or high guard, hook leg behind opponent’s head
    • Establish “zombie” position with foot controlling head
    • Control head with both hands
    • Safety check: Ensure partner can breathe and tap freely

  2. Position Adjustment (Shin Positioning)

    • Bring shin/instep to opponent’s throat area
    • Position precisely on trachea (front of throat)
    • Maintain balance with other leg hooking back
    • Partner check: Confirm position before any pressure

  3. Pressure Initiation (Entry Phase)

    • Begin pulling head down toward chest SLOWLY
    • Start pressing shin gently into throat
    • Speed: VERY SLOW progressive increase
    • Watch for: Partner’s breathing, face color, distress signals
    • Listen for: Any choking or breathing sounds

  4. Progressive Tightening (Execution Phase)

    • Incrementally increase head pull over 4-6 seconds
    • Press shin deeper into throat progressively
    • Monitor: Partner’s ability to breathe, eye contact, panic signals
    • Maintain: Balance and control throughout

  5. Final Adjustment (Completion Phase)

    • Fine-tune shin position for maximum effect
    • Pull head lower while pressing shin
    • Critical: WATCH FOR TAP - breathing restriction is immediate
    • Listen: Partner may make sounds indicating distress

  6. Submission Recognition & Release (Finish/Safety Phase)

    • FEEL FOR TAP: Hands tapping your body/mat, verbal “tap”, distress signals
    • RELEASE IMMEDIATELY:
      • Remove shin from throat instantly
      • Stop all head pulling
      • Release head control
      • Open guard completely
    • Move away to give space
    • Post-submission: “Can you breathe okay?” Check throat, watch for any breathing issues for 30 seconds

Total Execution Time in Training: Minimum 4-6 seconds from shin pressure to tap. In drilling, apply even slower (8-10 seconds) to develop sensitivity and safety awareness.

Anatomical Targeting & Injury Awareness

Primary Target

  • Anatomical Structure: Trachea (windpipe) - cartilaginous tube carrying air to lungs
  • Pressure Direction: Inward compression from shin/instep, blocking airflow
  • Physiological Response: Immediate breathing difficulty → panic response → potential unconsciousness if held

Secondary Effects

  • Larynx Compression: Voice box can be damaged
  • Throat Tissue: Soft tissue damage possible
  • Carotid Pressure: Some blood choke element may occur secondarily

INJURY RISKS & PREVENTION

Potential Injuries:

  • Trachea Damage: Crushing or fracturing tracheal cartilage. SERIOUS INJURY requiring immediate medical attention. Recovery: weeks to months, potentially permanent damage.
  • Larynx Injury: Damage to voice box. Can affect breathing and speech. Recovery: weeks to months.
  • Throat Contusion: Bruising and swelling of throat tissues. Recovery: days to weeks. Painful swallowing, speaking.
  • Breathing Obstruction: Complete airway blockage can cause unconsciousness in 30-60 seconds. Brain damage possible if prolonged.

Prevention Measures:

  • Apply pressure VERY SLOWLY and progressively (4-6 seconds minimum)
  • Never “spike” or “slam” shin into throat
  • Never apply explosive pressure - this is throat/trachea, not neck arteries
  • Watch partner’s face continuously during application
  • LISTEN for breathing sounds - choking, wheezing = TOO MUCH
  • Stop at ANY sign of distress (panic in eyes, face redness, inability to breathe)
  • Verbal check-ins during drilling: “Can you breathe?” “Pressure okay?”
  • Release immediately upon any tap signal
  • After release, verify partner can breathe normally
  • Check throat for any swelling or damage

Warning Signs to Stop IMMEDIATELY:

  • Partner cannot breathe (making choking sounds)
  • Partner’s eyes show panic or fear
  • Partner’s face turns red or purple
  • Partner makes gagging or choking sounds
  • Partner waves arms frantically (distress signal)
  • ANY uncertainty about partner’s breathing
  • Partner’s body tenses in panic
  • Your instinct says something is wrong - TRUST IT

CRITICAL DISTINCTION: Unlike blood chokes (triangle, RNC) that cause sleepiness and gradual unconsciousness, air chokes cause immediate panic and breathing distress. Partner may not be able to tap clearly if panicking. Watch for distress signals beyond standard tap.

Opponent Defense Patterns

Common Escape Attempts

Defensive responses with success rates and safety windows:

Early Defense (Submission <70% complete - zombie setup phase)

  • Gogoplata Defense - Posture Maintenance → Closed Guard Top (Success Rate: 50%, Window: 3-4 seconds)
  • Defender action: Maintain strong posture, prevent leg from getting behind head, use frames to stop zombie position
  • Attacker response: Break posture more, threaten other submissions, use opponent’s energy
  • Safety note: Best time to defend - submission not set yet

Hand Fighting (Leg behind head, shin approaching throat)

  • Gogoplata Defense - Leg Push → Guard Top Recovery (Success Rate: 35%, Window: 2-3 seconds)
  • Defender action: Use hands to push leg away from throat, attempt to restore posture, create space
  • Attacker response: Secure shin position quickly, pull head down more, adjust balance
  • Safety note: Window still exists before full pressure applied

Technical Escape (Shin on throat but not secured)

  • Gogoplata Escape - Back Out → Standing Guard Break (Success Rate: 25%, Window: 1-2 seconds)
  • Defender action: Explosive backward movement, pull head out, restore posture by backing away
  • Attacker response: Pull head harder, secure shin position, tighten guard
  • Safety critical: Must escape before full pressure - once airway compressed, very difficult

Inevitable Submission (Shin tight on throat, head controlled)

  • Tap Out → Terminal State (Success Rate: 0% escape)
  • Defender must: TAP IMMEDIATELY - multiple taps with hands, verbal “tap tap tap”, any signal
  • Attacker must: RELEASE IMMEDIATELY upon feeling/hearing tap or seeing distress
  • Safety principle: NO SHAME IN TAPPING - this choke obstructs breathing, can cause injury

Defensive Decision Logic

If [leg coming behind head] AND [zombie position being set]:
- Execute [[Gogoplata Defense - Posture Maintenance]] (Success Rate: 50%)
- Window: 3-4 seconds to prevent setup
- Action: Strong posture, prevent leg positioning, frame against head

Else if [shin approaching throat] but [not secured]:
- Execute [[Gogoplata Defense - Leg Push]] (Success Rate: 35%)
- Window: 2-3 seconds before pressure
- Action: Push leg away, back out, restore posture
- URGENCY: Airway choke - don't wait

Else if [shin on throat] AND [pressure building]:
- Execute [[Tap Out]] (Immediate)
- Window: Seconds before breathing seriously compromised
- CRITICAL: Tap immediately, clearly
- NO DELAY: This affects breathing, not blood flow

Else [any difficulty breathing]:
- Partner should: Release immediately
- Defender: Tap frantically if cannot breathe
- TRAINING CULTURE: Release at first sign of breathing distress

Resistance Patterns & Safety Considerations

  • Strength-Based Resistance: Using power to push leg away or resist head pull

    • Safety concern: If shin is already on throat, resistance increases pressure
    • Better option: Technical escape or immediate tap
    • Reality: Strength cannot overcome shin-on-throat mechanics once set

  • Technical Counter: Backing out or pushing leg away

    • Must be executed in early window (before shin secured on throat)
    • If late, attempting counter can increase throat pressure
    • If counter fails, tap immediately

  • Positional Adjustment: Trying to turn head or change angle

    • Not effective once shin is on throat
    • Can increase pressure on trachea
    • Not recommended - tap instead

  • Panic Response: Thrashing or explosive movement

    • Natural response to breathing obstruction
    • Can increase injury risk
    • Attacker must recognize panic and release immediately
    • Defender: Try to signal clearly despite panic

CRITICAL TRAINING CULTURE NOTE: Because this is an air choke affecting breathing, partners may panic or be unable to signal clearly. If you see your partner’s eyes showing panic, hear choking sounds, or see frantic movement, RELEASE IMMEDIATELY even without a clean tap. Your partner’s breathing is more important than “getting the tap.”

Training Progressions & Safety Protocols

Safe learning pathway emphasizing control before completion:

Phase 1: Technical Understanding (Week 1-3)

  • Study gogoplata mechanics without partner
  • Understand this is THROAT CHOKE, not blood choke
  • Learn trachea anatomy and injury risks
  • Develop flexibility required for position (may take months)
  • Study tap signals and distress recognition
  • Practice zombie position without pressure
  • No throat pressure yet
  • Quiz: Where is trachea? How is this different from blood choke?

Phase 2: Flexibility Development (Week 4-8)

  • Work on flexibility to achieve position
  • Practice zombie position with partner (zero resistance)
  • Position shin near throat WITHOUT PRESSURE
  • Partner gives “tap” at positioning phase (no pressure applied)
  • Practice release protocol every repetition
  • Verbal communication: “Breathing okay?” “Any pressure?”
  • Instructor supervision required
  • Goal: Achieve position safely, build flexibility

Phase 3: Slow Practice (Week 9-12)

  • Controlled application with willing, flexible partner
  • Partner provides ZERO resistance
  • Focus: Shin positioning and minimal pressure only
  • Speed: EXTRA SLOW (10+ seconds per repetition)
  • Partner gives “tap” at 20-30% pressure (light touch only)
  • Practice release protocol every single repetition
  • Develop sensitivity to throat pressure
  • Goal: Learn pressure control, maintain breathing awareness

Phase 4: Progressive Resistance (Week 13-20)

  • Partner provides mild resistance to setup
  • Practice reading defensive cues
  • Speed: SLOW (8-10 seconds per rep from positioning to tap)
  • Partner taps at 40-50% pressure
  • Emphasize control over completion
  • Recognize when position is correct
  • Practice: If partner shows distress, release immediately
  • Goal: Setup against defense, never compromise breathing

Phase 5: Safety Integration (Week 21-28)

  • Light rolling integration (50-60% intensity)
  • Proper distress recognition ingrained
  • Speed: Controlled (6-8 seconds minimum)
  • Partner taps at 60% pressure
  • Competition speed NEVER in training for this submission
  • Respect partner safety absolutely
  • Develop reputation as safe partner with throat chokes
  • Practice: Immediate release is automatic
  • Goal: Safe application is default behavior

Phase 6: Selective Live Application (Month 7+)

  • Only with trusted, flexible partners
  • Read situations for gogoplata opportunities (rare)
  • Apply at appropriate speed (always slow due to injury risk)
  • NEVER sacrifice partner safety
  • Continue refining control and sensitivity
  • Mentor newer students on throat choke safety
  • Practice: You choose not to finish, even if you could
  • Goal: Mastery means perfect control + guaranteed safety

CRITICAL: Progress through phases only when previous phase is mastered. This submission has higher injury risk than most - rushing progression is dangerous. Many practitioners choose never to use this submission in training due to risk.

Risk Assessment:

  • Weeks 1-12: Learning position only, no pressure
  • Weeks 13-20: Minimal pressure only, extreme caution
  • Weeks 21+: Controlled application with trusted partners only
  • Never: Full competition-speed application in training
  • Reality: Many advanced practitioners avoid this submission in training entirely

Expert Insights

John Danaher Perspective

“The Gogoplata represents an interesting paradox in submission grappling. From a mechanical standpoint, it’s highly effective - shin pressure on the trachea creates immediate breathing difficulty and rapid tap. However, from a safety and training perspective, it’s among the more problematic submissions due to the direct tracheal compression and injury potential. The technical setup requires extreme flexibility and precise control. In training, if you’re going to practice this submission, you must apply pressure with even greater caution than typical chokes. The trachea is not designed to handle compression forces - it’s a vulnerable structure. Your training partner’s long-term throat health is worth more than any tap. If you don’t have the flexibility and control to execute this safely, don’t attempt it.”

Key Technical Detail: Shin positioning must be precise - too high hits jaw, too low misses trachea, correct placement is dangerous if applied wrong

Safety Emphasis: Danaher acknowledges the effectiveness but emphasizes the heightened danger. Control and caution are paramount.

Gordon Ryan Perspective

“I’ve hit gogoplatas in competition, and I’ve had them hit on me. In competition, it’s a legitimate finish if you have the flexibility and position. In training? I almost never go for it, and I tell my training partners not to finish it on me. The risk-reward isn’t there for training. There are a hundred other submissions I can work on that don’t risk throat injury. When I do drill it, we stop at positioning - shin near the throat, but no pressure. Everyone taps to the position. That’s the only safe way to train this technique. If you’re finishing gogoplatas in training, you’re taking unnecessary risks with your partners’ health. Save it for competition if you must use it, but understand the consequences if something goes wrong.”

Competition Application: Legitimate in competition but requires exceptional control

Training Modification: Gordon essentially advocates not training this submission with pressure - position only

Eddie Bravo Perspective

“The Zombie to Gogoplata is part of my rubber guard system, and it’s definitely an advanced, specialized technique. Here’s the reality: you need exceptional flexibility, and your partner needs to understand exactly what’s happening. I teach the position and the mechanics, but I’m very clear with students - this is a throat choke, not a blood choke. That means higher risk. When we drill it, we drill positioning and light touch only. Nobody’s crushing throats in training. If you tap someone with a gogoplata in competition, great. But in training, your goal is to understand the mechanics and achieve the position. The innovation with gogoplata is in the setups and entries from rubber guard - that’s where you can be creative. The finish itself is straightforward: shin on throat. But that finish is also dangerous. Respect that reality.”

Innovation Focus: Creative setups from rubber guard system, position understanding

Safety Non-Negotiable: Bravo emphasizes position training without dangerous pressure application

Common Errors

Technical Errors

Error 1: Insufficient Flexibility

  • Mistake: Attempting gogoplata without adequate hip/leg flexibility to position behind head
  • Why it fails: Cannot achieve zombie position properly, submission is impossible
  • Correction: Develop flexibility first through stretching and yoga, may take months
  • Safety impact: Forcing position without flexibility risks injury to both partners

Error 2: Wrong Shin Position

  • Mistake: Shin positioned on jaw or too low on neck instead of trachea
  • Why it fails: Misses the target entirely or creates ineffective pressure
  • Correction: Precise positioning with instep/shin on front of throat (trachea)
  • Safety impact: Wrong positioning can cause jaw injury or be ineffective, tempting excessive force

Error 3: Inadequate Head Control

  • Mistake: Not pulling head down sufficiently or losing head control
  • Why it fails: Opponent can posture up and escape, pressure is insufficient
  • Correction: Strong two-handed control on back of head, consistent downward pull
  • Safety impact: Poor control leads to compensating with excessive shin pressure

Error 4: Loss of Balance

  • Mistake: Falling to side or losing guard control during execution
  • Why it fails: Position collapses, cannot maintain pressure
  • Correction: Other leg hooks back/arm for balance, core engaged
  • Safety impact: Falling can cause accidental spiking of shin into throat

Error 5: Attempting from Wrong Position

  • Mistake: Trying gogoplata from standard closed guard without rubber guard setup
  • Why it fails: Flexibility and positioning requirements not met
  • Correction: Must establish rubber guard or zombie position first
  • Safety impact: Forcing from wrong position increases injury risk

SAFETY ERRORS (CRITICAL)

DANGER: Explosive Shin Pressure

  • Mistake: Slamming or spiking shin into throat quickly
  • Why dangerous: Direct trauma to trachea, can fracture cartilage
  • Injury risk: TRACHEA DAMAGE (serious injury, medical emergency)
  • Correction: Position shin first, then apply VERY slow progressive pressure over 4-6 seconds
  • This can cause permanent throat injury

DANGER: Ignoring Breathing Distress

  • Mistake: Continuing pressure when partner shows panic or breathing difficulty
  • Why dangerous: This is an air choke - can cause unconsciousness and injury rapidly
  • Injury risk: Throat damage, breathing obstruction, panic-induced injury, brain damage if unconsciousness occurs
  • Correction: Release IMMEDIATELY if partner shows any distress beyond normal discomfort
  • Watch for panic in eyes, frantic tapping, choking sounds

DANGER: Training Without Flexibility

  • Mistake: Attempting gogoplata when practitioner lacks flexibility for position
  • Why dangerous: Forcing position can injure both partners
  • Injury risk: Hip/leg injury to attacker, neck/throat injury to defender
  • Correction: Develop flexibility FIRST over months before attempting this submission
  • Flexibility cannot be rushed - forcing causes injury

DANGER: Holding After Tap

  • Mistake: Continuing pressure after tap signal
  • Why dangerous: Throat is already compromised, additional pressure causes injury
  • Injury risk: Trachea damage, larynx injury, breathing obstruction
  • Correction: Release IMMEDIATELY upon any tap or distress signal
  • Throat injuries can be permanent

DANGER: Drilling at Competition Speed

  • Mistake: Applying fast pressure during drilling or light rolling
  • Why dangerous: Partner not defending at full intensity, throat damage happens quickly
  • Injury risk: Trachea fracture, throat contusion, breathing emergency
  • Correction: ALWAYS apply slow pressure in training, consider position-only drilling
  • This submission should NEVER be finished quickly in training

DANGER: Not Monitoring Breathing

  • Mistake: Not watching/listening for partner’s breathing during application
  • Why dangerous: Cannot detect breathing obstruction or distress
  • Injury risk: Delayed recognition of serious problem, extended pressure
  • Correction: WATCH face, LISTEN for breathing sounds, be ready to release instantly
  • Breathing distress can happen faster than tap signal

DANGER: Training on Inflexible Partners

  • Mistake: Attempting gogoplata on partners who lack flexibility for position
  • Why dangerous: Partner cannot achieve proper position, forced positioning causes injury
  • Injury risk: Neck injury to partner, awkward falls, increased pressure
  • Correction: Only practice with partners who have adequate flexibility
  • Both partners need flexibility for safe practice

Setup Errors

Error 6: Rushing the Setup

  • Mistake: Trying to skip to finish without proper rubber guard establishment
  • Why it fails: Position is unstable, escape is easy
  • Correction: Establish rubber guard completely, then zombie, then shin position
  • Safety impact: Rushing leads to forced positioning and injury

Variations & Setups

Primary Setup (Most Common)

From Rubber Guard:

  • Establish rubber guard with leg behind head
  • Transition to zombie position (foot controlling head)
  • Position shin/instep at throat
  • Pull head down while pressing shin
  • Success rate: Beginner 15%, Intermediate 30%, Advanced 50%
  • Setup time: 4-5 seconds for setup, 4-6 seconds for finish
  • Safety considerations: Highest-risk submission, extreme caution required

Alternative Setup 1: High Guard Zombie

From High Guard:

  • Feet on hips, break posture severely
  • Hook one leg behind opponent’s head
  • Transition to zombie position
  • Apply shin to throat
  • Best for: No-gi when grip options limited
  • Safety notes: Less control than rubber guard, higher escape potential

Alternative Setup 2: Failed Triangle to Gogoplata

From Triangle Choke attempt:

  • Triangle defense succeeds, opponent postures
  • Maintain leg position, adjust to zombie
  • Hook leg behind head
  • Transition shin to throat
  • Best for: Opportunistic when triangle fails
  • Safety notes: Rapid transition, ensure control before pressure

Chain Combinations

After failed Omoplata:

  • Opponent rolls forward to escape omoplata
  • As they come up, trap head with leg
  • Transition to zombie position
  • Lock gogoplata
  • Transition cue: Omoplata escape creates head positioning
  • Safety: Ensure full control during rapid transition

After failed Armbar from Guard:

  • Opponent defends by stacking or pulling out
  • Use stacking energy to establish high position
  • Hook leg behind head
  • Apply gogoplata
  • Decision point: When armbar clearly defended
  • Safety: Don’t force if position isn’t clean

No-Gi vs Gi Modifications

No-Gi Version (Preferred):

  • Grips: Direct head control with hands
  • Advantages: Less friction, easier leg positioning, cleaner application
  • Modifications: Faster transitions due to less friction
  • Safety: Slipperiness means adjust carefully, maintain slow application

Gi Version:

  • Grips: Can use collar to control head
  • Disadvantages: Gi material creates friction making shin positioning harder
  • Adjustments: May need different angle due to gi bunching
  • Safety: Gi friction can cause more throat tissue damage - even slower application needed

Mechanical Principles

Leverage Systems

  • Fulcrum: Back of opponent’s neck/head
  • Effort Arm: Your shin/instep pressing + arms pulling head = combined force
  • Resistance Arm: Opponent’s throat structure (trachea is weak cartilage)
  • Mechanical Advantage: Leg extension strength + arm pulling ≈ 100-200 lbs potential force against trachea that can handle only ~20-30 lbs before damage
  • Efficiency: Direct pressure on unprotected structure - very efficient but very dangerous

Pressure Distribution

  • Primary Pressure Point: Anterior trachea (front of windpipe)
  • Force Vector: Inward compression from shin, blocking airflow
  • Pressure Type: Direct compression of cartilaginous structure
  • Progressive Loading: Shin position (0%), light touch (20%), increased pressure (50%), completion (100%)
  • Threshold: ~10 lbs sustained pressure begins restricting airflow; ~20-30 lbs can damage trachea

Structural Weakness

  • Why It Works: Trachea is hollow cartilaginous tube with no bony protection; designed for flexibility, not compression resistance
  • Body’s Response: Immediate panic response to breathing obstruction → desperate escape attempt or rapid tap
  • Damage Mechanism: Compression can crush cartilage rings, creating permanent breathing difficulties
  • Protection Limits: Body has no defense against tracheal compression - only option is escape or submit

Timing Elements

  • Setup Window: 4-5 seconds to achieve zombie position and shin placement
  • Application Phase: 4-6 seconds from shin pressure to tap in training (2-3 seconds in competition)
  • Escape Windows:
    • Pre-setup: 4-5 seconds (50% escape rate)
    • During positioning: 3-4 seconds (35% escape rate)
    • Post-pressure: <1 second (near 0% escape rate)
  • Point of No Return: When shin is tight on throat with head controlled - tap required
  • Breathing Compromise: Begins immediately with pressure, can cause unconsciousness in 30-60 seconds
  • Tap Recognition: Attacker must respond within 0.5 seconds due to breathing risk

Progressive Loading (Safety Critical)

Initial Contact (0-20% pressure):

  • Shin positioned at throat, light contact only
  • Partner feels position but can breathe normally
  • No restriction yet
  • Time: 2-3 seconds

Early Phase (20-40% pressure):

  • Begin very gentle shin press
  • Start pulling head down slightly
  • Partner feels light throat pressure, still breathing easily
  • Easy escape still possible
  • Time: 2-3 seconds

Middle Phase (40-70% pressure):

  • Increased shin pressure and head pull
  • Partner feels significant throat pressure
  • Breathing becoming difficult
  • Escape very difficult, decision point for tap
  • Time: 2-3 seconds

Completion Phase (70-100% pressure):

  • Full pressure and head pull
  • Partner should tap immediately
  • Breathing significantly restricted
  • 30-60 seconds until unconsciousness possible
  • Time: 1-2 seconds

Training Protocol:

  • In drilling: Stop at 20-30% pressure, partner taps to position
  • In light rolling: Stop at 40-50% pressure maximum
  • In competition rolling: Many grapplers avoid this submission even in hard training
  • NEVER train at 100% - injury risk too high

Competition Protocol:

  • Continue to tap or technical completion
  • Release immediately upon tap
  • Understand you’re risking opponent’s throat health

CRITICAL UNDERSTANDING: Most instructors recommend position-only drilling for gogoplata due to injury risk. The throat cannot handle pressure like neck arteries can. Training at any significant percentage is dangerous.

Knowledge Assessment

Test understanding before live application. 6/6 correct required due to high risk.

Question 1: Setup Recognition (Safety Critical)

Q: What position and controls must be established before attempting this submission safely?

A: Starting position must be Rubber Guard (S035) or extreme high guard with leg capable of going behind opponent’s head. Required controls: (1) Zombie position established with leg behind head, (2) Opponent’s posture completely broken, (3) Strong two-handed head control, (4) Shin positioned precisely at trachea (front of throat), (5) Balance maintained with other leg, (6) Partner has adequate flexibility for position, (7) Partner aware of throat choke type and tap signals. Safety verification includes ensuring partner can tap freely and understanding this is air choke requiring immediate release.

Why It Matters: Gogoplata is one of the highest-risk submissions due to direct tracheal pressure. Attempting without perfect setup and flexibility can cause serious throat injury.

Question 2: Technical Execution (Mechanics)

Q: What creates the pressure in this technique, and what is the primary target?

A: Pressure is created by: (1) Shin or instep pressing directly on trachea, (2) Arms pulling opponent’s head down toward chest, (3) Leg extension strength driving shin inward, (4) Body positioning preventing escape. Primary target is trachea (windpipe) - the cartilaginous tube in the front of the throat that carries air to lungs. This is an AIR CHOKE, not a blood choke - it restricts breathing, not blood flow. The technique works by compressing the trachea between your shin and your pulling force, blocking airflow.

Why It Matters: Understanding this is an air choke (not blood choke) changes the entire safety profile. Tracheal damage is more serious and permanent than temporary blood flow restriction.

Question 3: Safety Understanding (CRITICAL)

Q: How fast should pressure be applied in training, what are the tap signals, and what specific injuries can occur?

A:

Application Speed:

  • Drilling: 10+ seconds (position only, minimal pressure), stop at 20-30%
  • Light rolling: 8-10 seconds (very slow), stop at 40-50% maximum
  • Hard rolling: 6-8 seconds (slow), many avoid this submission entirely
  • Competition: 4-6 seconds (moderate) - NEVER fast due to injury risk
  • Note: Many instructors recommend position-only drilling with NO pressure

Tap Signals:

  • Physical tap with hands (multiple, clear taps)
  • Physical tap with feet
  • Verbal “tap” or “tap tap tap” (important - may not be able to tap with hands)
  • ANY sign of breathing distress (choking sounds, panic, frantic movement)
  • Panic in eyes or facial expression

Specific Injuries:

  • Trachea fracture or crushing (SERIOUS - medical emergency, potentially permanent)
  • Larynx damage (affects breathing and voice, weeks to months recovery)
  • Throat contusion and swelling (painful, affects swallowing and breathing)
  • Breathing obstruction (can cause unconsciousness, brain damage if prolonged)
  • Soft tissue damage in throat area

Release Protocol:

  1. Remove shin from throat immediately (instant pressure stop)
  2. Release all head pulling
  3. Open guard completely
  4. Create space
  5. Ask “Can you breathe? Throat okay?”
  6. Monitor breathing for 30+ seconds
  7. Check for throat swelling or damage

Why It Matters: Gogoplata is among the most dangerous submissions in BJJ. Tracheal injuries can be permanent and life-threatening. Application speed and immediate release are critical to preventing serious harm.

Question 4: Defense Awareness (Tactical)

Q: What is the best defense against this submission, and at what point is tapping the only safe option?

A:

Best Defense: Early posture maintenance and prevention - maintain strong upright posture, prevent leg from getting behind head, recognize zombie position setup and defend immediately. Use frames to stop leg positioning. Success rate: 50% if executed before leg is behind head.

Timing Window: Must be executed during setup phase, before shin is positioned on throat. Once zombie position is set, escape success drops to 35%. Once shin is on throat with head controlled, escape rate drops to near 0%.

Tap Decision Point: The moment shin is positioned on throat and head is controlled. Unlike blood chokes where you might attempt late escapes, air chokes require immediate tapping due to breathing restriction and injury risk. Do not wait for breathing difficulty - tap to the position, not the pressure.

Physical Indicators to Tap:

  • Shin positioned on your throat
  • Head pulled down and controlled
  • Cannot restore posture or back out
  • Any difficulty breathing
  • Position feels inescapable
  • Beginning to panic (natural response to airway threat)

Critical Understanding: This is not a submission to “tough out.” Tracheal damage can occur quickly. Tap early, tap clearly, preserve your throat health.

Why It Matters: Knowing when to tap prevents throat injury. Smart grapplers tap to gogoplata position immediately - there’s no benefit to testing breathing restriction.

Question 5: Anatomical Knowledge (Technical)

Q: What specific anatomical structure is targeted, and why is this submission more dangerous than most chokes?

A:

Primary Target: Trachea (windpipe) - a cartilaginous tube in the front of the throat consisting of C-shaped cartilage rings. The trachea carries air from the larynx to the bronchi and lungs.

Why More Dangerous Than Most Chokes:

  1. Structural Weakness: Trachea is made of cartilage (not bone), designed for flexibility and airflow, NOT compression resistance. Can be crushed or fractured.

  2. Air Choke vs Blood Choke: Most chokes target carotid arteries (blood chokes) which cause sleepiness and gradual unconsciousness. Gogoplata is an AIR CHOKE causing immediate breathing difficulty and panic response.

  3. Permanent Damage Potential: Crushed tracheal cartilage may not heal properly, potentially causing permanent breathing difficulties.

  4. No Natural Protection: Unlike carotid arteries which have some muscular protection, the anterior trachea has only skin and minimal tissue protection.

  5. Panic Response: Breathing restriction triggers immediate panic, making it harder for partners to tap calmly and clearly.

Injury Comparison:

  • Blood choke (RNC): Temporary unconsciousness, full recovery expected
  • Air choke (Gogoplata): Potential permanent tracheal damage, long recovery, medical intervention may be required

Medical Reality: Emergency room visits for BJJ injuries often involve throat trauma from techniques like gogoplata. These injuries are taken seriously by medical professionals.

Why It Matters: Understanding the anatomical vulnerability and increased risk profile helps practitioners make informed decisions about training this technique. Many high-level practitioners choose not to practice gogoplata due to risk-reward ratio.

Question 6: Flexibility and Position Requirements (Technical)

Q: What flexibility requirements must be met, and why is attempting this submission without adequate flexibility dangerous?

A:

Flexibility Requirements for Attacker:

  • Hip flexibility to bring leg behind opponent’s head (extreme)
  • Hamstring flexibility for leg extension
  • Hip flexor flexibility for maintaining position
  • Generally requires: Ability to do full splits or near-splits
  • Timeline: May take 6-12 months of dedicated stretching to develop
  • Test: Can you achieve zombie position comfortably without partner resistance?

Flexibility Requirements for Defender:

  • Neck/shoulder flexibility to handle head positioning
  • Some hip flexibility to accommodate attacker’s leg position
  • Communication about flexibility limits is essential

Dangers of Insufficient Flexibility:

For Attacker:

  • Forcing leg behind head can cause hip flexor injury, groin strain
  • Cannot achieve proper position, leading to forcing/muscling
  • Loss of balance and control, causing accidental injury to partner
  • Compensation with excessive force due to improper positioning

For Defender:

  • Forced neck positioning can cause neck strain or injury
  • Awkward positioning increases accidental pressure
  • Cannot achieve position safely, increasing injury risk for both

Safe Approach:

  1. Develop flexibility FIRST over months (stretching, yoga)
  2. Test position with cooperative partner with ZERO pressure
  3. Only progress when position is comfortable for both
  4. If position feels forced, abandon the technique
  5. Many practitioners never develop adequate flexibility - that’s okay

Reality Check: Just because you’re flexible enough to play guard doesn’t mean you’re flexible enough for gogoplata. This technique requires exceptional flexibility that many BJJ practitioners never achieve.

Why It Matters: Attempting gogoplata without adequate flexibility is one of the primary causes of injury with this technique. Forcing flexibility causes injuries to both partners. If you can’t achieve the position comfortably and safely, this technique isn’t for you - and that’s fine. There are hundreds of other submissions to master.

Audio & Narration Elements

Dramatic Commentary (For TTS/Game Narration)

Setup Phase:

“Blue has rubber guard locked in. White’s posture is broken. Blue’s leg starts to hook behind the head - we’re seeing zombie position being established. This is the setup for one of the most advanced submissions in the game - the gogoplata. White needs to recognize this danger immediately.”

Tension Building:

“The zombie is set. Blue’s leg is behind the head. The shin is moving toward the throat. White feels the unusual position - this isn’t a typical choke. Blue’s hands control the head. The shin approaches the trachea. White’s breathing is about to be compromised. This is high-level technique meeting critical danger.”

Critical Moment:

“The shin makes contact with the throat. White’s eyes widen - this is different from other chokes. Blue begins the pull. The pressure is building on the windpipe. White can feel breathing becoming difficult. This isn’t blood flow - this is airway. White must tap NOW or risk injury.”

Tap Recognition:

“The tap! White taps frantically - once, twice, three times on Blue’s body. Blue responds immediately, removing the shin from the throat instantly. The pressure stops. White gasps, checking their throat. Blue moves back, giving space. The submission is complete, but both athletes are aware of how dangerous that position was.”

Victory Declaration:

“Victory by gogoplata! One of the rarest submissions in competition. Blue executed with precision, and critically - released immediately upon the tap. White showed intelligent defense by tapping to the position. This submission represents both technical mastery and respect for safety. The gogoplata - spectacular when successful, dangerous if mishandled.”

Expert Analysis:

“[Danaher voice] The gogoplata is a fascinating technical achievement, but also a reminder of submission grappling’s inherent dangers. What you witnessed was shin pressure applied directly to the trachea - not the carotid arteries, but the windpipe itself. This creates immediate breathing difficulty. Notice Blue’s application speed - very controlled, progressive pressure. And observe White’s tap - immediate, clear, multiple taps. This is the only safe way to train this submission. The trachea is cartilaginous structure that can be damaged permanently. Both athletes displayed appropriate respect for this reality. Technical victory, but more importantly, safe execution and intelligent submission.”

Safety Reminders (For Training Mode)

Setup Cues:

  • “This is an ADVANCED submission - ensure you have flexibility”
  • “Partner must understand this is throat choke”
  • “Establish rubber guard completely first”
  • “Check partner can breathe freely before positioning shin”

Execution Guidance:

  • “Position shin at throat - NO PRESSURE YET”
  • “Verify partner can tap clearly”
  • “Begin VERY slow pressure increase”
  • “Watch partner’s face continuously - look for breathing distress”
  • “Listen for any choking or breathing sounds”

Safety Reminders:

  • “Remember: 4-6 seconds minimum, slower in drilling”
  • “This is THROAT/AIRWAY - different from blood chokes”
  • “Watch for panic in partner’s eyes”
  • “Release immediately at ANY distress signal”
  • “Check breathing after finish - ‘Can you breathe okay?‘”

Completion Confirmation:

  • “Feel for tap - may be frantic due to breathing”
  • “Remove shin from throat IMMEDIATELY”
  • “Create space so partner can breathe”
  • “Check throat for any damage or swelling”
  • “Monitor breathing for 30 seconds post-release”

SEO Content

Meta Description Template

“Master the gogoplata in BJJ. Advanced guide covering rubber guard setup, throat choke mechanics, injury prevention, and safety protocols. Learn from expert insights with step-by-step instructions for experienced practitioners.”

Target Keywords

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  • Variations: “throat choke bjj”, “shin choke”, “kagato jime”

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This content is part of the BJJGraph knowledge base - Advanced Submission Documentation

Critical Note: The gogoplata is an advanced, high-risk submission. This documentation provides complete technical information AND comprehensive safety protocols. Many practitioners choose not to train this submission due to injury risk. That is a legitimate and intelligent decision. If you choose to train gogoplata, do so with extreme caution, experienced partners, and instructor supervision.

Remember: Your training partner’s throat health is worth more than any tap. When in doubt about safety, don’t finish the submission.

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