The triangle choke is the most versatile submission in jiu-jitsu. Five variations (front, rear, side, opposite, reverse) that work from guard, mount, back, and everywhere in between. But the quality gap between triangle instructionals is massive. Some cover the front triangle in 40 minutes; others spend 10+ hours building a complete system across all five types.
I researched every triangle instructional on BJJ Fanatics plus Ryan Hall’s classic DVD set, cross-referenced BJJ World reviews, Sherdog forum debates, and JitsMagazine write-ups, and ranked the 8 best by teaching quality, technique depth, and real-world applicability.
Last updated: March 2026. Prices checked at time of writing.
#1 Pick – The Encyclopedia
Triangles: Enter The System – John Danaher
The definitive triangle system. All 5 triangle types connected into one submission network with mechanical breakdowns for every body type.
- All 5 triangle variations (front, opposite, rear, side, reverse)
- Connects to entire Enter The System series
- Classroom commentary with live rolling footage
Heavy on theory early; Danaher’s lecture style is slow
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#2 Pick – Triangles + Leg Locks
Systematic Submission Dilemmas – Craig Jones
Triangles and leg locks as one integrated dilemma system. Competition-tested finishing mechanics with real match analysis.
- All 5 triangle types plus leg lock combinations
- Body type adaptations for triangle finishing
- Real match examples from Craig’s competition footage
Split focus: leg lock content may not interest pure triangle seekers
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#3 Pick – Best Bang for Your Buck
The Triangle (3 DVD Set) – Ryan Hall
50 techniques from the greatest triangle specialist in BJJ history. 200+ competition triangle finishes backing every concept taught.
- Best content-per-dollar ratio on this list
- Engineering-style conceptual approach
- Covers guard, mount, side control, inverted, flying
2009 production quality; Hall talks extremely fast
Check PriceWhy these 3?
Each pick dominates a different segment of the triangle instructional market:
- Danaher (#1) is the most comprehensive triangle resource ever recorded. Ten-plus hours covering all five triangle variations as an interconnected system. BJJ World gave it 5/5 and called the introduction “a masterpiece.” The front triangle alone spans three volumes and over four hours of material. If you want the encyclopedia, this is it.
- Craig Jones SSD (#2) earns the competition pick because it combines triangles with leg locks into one dilemma-based attack system. All five triangle types, real match analysis, and body type adaptations. BJJ World called it “one title you shouldn’t miss out on.” For no-gi competitors who want upper body and lower body threats as one weapon, this is the play.
- Ryan Hall (#3) delivers 50 techniques across 4+ hours for $49.99. Hall has 200+ competition triangle submissions, and a Sherdog reviewer said they had “not ever seen a martial arts instructional that was as in depth as these.” The conceptual approach teaches you to think about triangles as positions, not just submissions. Dated production, but timeless instruction.
Answer a few questions to find the right triangle instructional for your game.
Full Rankings: 8 Best Triangle Choke Instructionals
Each review below covers specific techniques by name, named community quotes, strengths, weaknesses with competitor comparisons, and who should (and shouldn’t) buy it.
1. Triangles: Enter The System – John Danaher
The most comprehensive triangle instructional ever produced. Ten-plus hours covering all five triangle variations as one interconnected system, with mechanical breakdowns that work for every body type and limb length.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ 10+ hours across 8 volumes
- 📅 Released: December 2018
- 🥋 Both Gi and No-Gi (demonstrated no-gi)
- 🎯 Intermediate to advanced (blue belt+)
- 🕸 Complete Triangle System
What It Covers
Danaher builds the triangle from first principles. Volume 1 introduces his multiplicity theory (why triangles are the most versatile submission), the 2-stage approach to entries, and solo/partner drills. Volumes 2-4 dedicate over four hours to the front triangle alone: trap triangle concepts, unified legs theory, sitting guard 2-on-1 setups, clamp guard entries, monoplata transitions, and 6 different side control triangle entries.
Volume 5 covers the opposite triangle (Hantai Senkaku) with kimura and American arm lock follow-ups. Volume 6 tackles rear triangles from back kick entries through mount transitions. Volume 7 addresses the side triangle (Yoko Sankaku) from turtle and guard passing positions. Volume 8 wraps up with reverse triangles from both dominant and inferior positions, connecting everything back to the Enter The System submission network.
What Makes It Stand Out
- All 5 triangle variations covered as interconnected system (front, opposite, rear, side, reverse)
- Trap triangle, Hantai Senkaku, and Yoko Sankaku – techniques unique to this set
- “Classroom commentary” feature with live rolling footage demonstrating real application
- Triangle-to-heel-hook transitions bridging upper and lower body attacks
- 6 distinct side control triangle entries – more than any other instructional
- Connects to Danaher’s other Enter The System sets (leg locks, back attacks, kimuras, arm bars)
What the Community Says
“If you’re into triangles this is simply something you must have. It will probably change a lot of people’s views on the triangle.”
BJJ World (5/5 rating)
“A 51-year-old Danaher with a hip and knee replacement executing flying triangles like he was doing nothing special.”
BJJ World reviewer on the flying triangle demonstration
“If you like a lot of talking, a lot of concepts, and everything about certain positions then you should go to John Danaher’s DVD.”
Sherdog forum user comparing Danaher vs. Craig Jones
Weakness
Danaher’s lecture-heavy style means you’ll spend significant time on theory before practical application. At $197 retail, it’s the most expensive triangle instructional on the market, and Craig Jones’ Systematic Submission Dilemmas arguably covers triangle finishing mechanics more concisely for competition. Ryan Hall covers more entry variations for a quarter of the price.
My Recommendation
Best for: Serious practitioners who want the definitive triangle encyclopedia and are willing to invest 10+ hours. System-oriented thinkers who want triangles connected to leg locks, back attacks, and kimuras.
Avoid if: You’re impatient with lecture-style instruction. If you want competition-ready techniques without the theory, Craig Jones’ Triangle Machine delivers faster.
Pairs with: Danaher’s Leg Locks: Enter The System for the triangle-to-heel-hook connection, or Craig Jones’ Triangle Machine for concise competition entries.
2. Systematic Submission Dilemmas – Craig Jones
Craig Jones combines triangles and leg locks into one dilemma-based attack system. When your opponent defends the triangle, they expose a heel hook. When they defend the heel hook, they open a triangle. This is how modern no-gi competitors fight.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ Multi-hour across 8 volumes
- 📅 Released: ~2022
- 🥋 Primarily No-Gi
- 🎯 Intermediate to advanced competitors
- 🕸 Triangle + Leg Lock System
What It Covers
Volumes 1-2 cover leg lock finishing mechanics: outside/inside heel hooks, Ashi Garami variations, kneebar finishing, Estima locks, and Aoki locks. Volume 3 shifts to triangle strangles covering all five types (front, side, rear, reverse, opposite) with the Adam Wardzinski bridge counter and body type modifications.
Volume 4 focuses on triangle entries against standing and kneeling opponents, including the lumberjack entry, overhook entry, and Williams guard triangles. Volumes 5-8 build combination attacks from open guard, half guard, closed guard, and top position, with live rolling footage demonstrating the full dilemma system.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Upper body + lower body submission dilemma – opponents can’t defend both simultaneously
- All 5 triangle types covered with competition-tested finishing mechanics
- Adam Wardzinski bridge counter – specific solution to a common defensive reaction
- Williams guard triangle entries and lumberjack entry not found in Danaher’s set
- Body type adaptations for triangle finishing (works for short legs too)
- Real match analysis from Craig’s competition footage against elite opponents
What the Community Says
“One title you shouldn’t miss out on.”
BJJ World
“The best triangle instruction available – could replace Danaher’s triangle DVD.”
BJJMore rankings context
Weakness
The split focus between leg locks and triangles means neither topic gets the depth of a dedicated instructional. Danaher covers triangles more thoroughly, and a pure leg lock set covers leg locks more thoroughly. At $197, you’re paying premium for a dual-purpose system. Ryan Hall’s $49.99 Triangle set covers more pure triangle entries.
My Recommendation
Best for: No-gi competitors who want triangles and leg locks as one integrated weapon. Intermediate to advanced grapplers building a submission dilemma game for ADCC-style competition.
Avoid if: You only care about triangles and don’t want leg lock content. If budget is a concern, Ryan Hall or Craig’s Triangle Machine give you triangle-specific content for less.
Pairs with: Craig Jones’ Triangle Machine for his competition-specific entries (ADCC flying triangle, uchi mata triangle) that aren’t in this set.
3. The Triangle (3 DVD Set) – Ryan Hall
Fifty techniques across four-plus hours from the greatest triangle specialist in BJJ history. Ryan Hall has over 200 competition triangle finishes, and this set teaches you the engineering principles behind every single one. At $49.99, it’s the best value on this list by a wide margin.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ 4+ hours across 3 DVDs (~50 techniques)
- 📅 Released: ~2009
- 🥋 Gi-focused (principles apply to no-gi)
- 🎯 Blue belt and above
- 🕸 Conceptual Triangle System
What It Covers
DVD 1 establishes the triangle as a position, not just a submission. Hall covers locking mechanics, the switch figure-four configuration, reverse triangle positioning, and alternative finishes: keylocks, armlocks, wristlocks, and omoplatas from the triangle position. This mindset shift is what separates Hall’s approach from everyone else.
DVD 2 introduces his 50/50 BJJ Triangle methodology with posture break mechanics and angle maintenance. Entries include the tap-through triangle, kick-through triangle, shin smash triangle, hip bump triangle from closed guard, plus overhook-to-triangle and Granby underneath from half guard. DVD 3 covers advanced attacks: sitting guard entries, inverted guard triangles (standard and reverse), back control triangles, mounted triangles, side control triangles, knee-on-belly entries, and flying triangles.
What Makes It Stand Out
- 200+ competition triangle submissions backing every concept taught
- Triangle treated as position (sweeps, transitions) not just submission
- 50/50 BJJ Triangle methodology – unique framework for posture breaking
- Tap-through, shin smash, hip bump, Granby underneath entries – specific named techniques
- Covers guard, mount, side control, knee-on-belly, inverted, flying positions
- Engineering/conceptual approach teaches WHY triangles work, not just how
What the Community Says
“I have not ever seen a martial arts instructional that was as in depth as these.”
Sherdog forum reviewer
“Ryan seems more like an engineer that is explaining how to do controlled demolitions than a JJ teacher.”
Sherdog forum reviewer
“You’re going to start seeing the triangle as a position instead of just a submission hold.”
BJJ World
“The clarity of explanation, the focus on concept and heuristics rather than rote technique and his ability to connect principle to multiple applications makes for unparalleled BJJ instruction.”
Attack The Back review
Weakness
Released around 2009, so production quality is dated compared to modern BJJ Fanatics releases. Hall talks extremely fast and at length, which can be overwhelming. A Sherdog reviewer warned that “if you are not a high blue or above, these DVDs might be too advanced.” Physical DVD format only (no streaming app), and the instruction is less no-gi specific than Craig Jones’ offerings.
My Recommendation
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting the most triangle content per dollar. Conceptual learners who want to understand the principles behind triangles, not just copy techniques. Gi practitioners building a comprehensive triangle game.
Avoid if: You’re a white belt (this is blue belt+ material). If you train primarily no-gi, Craig Jones’ offerings are more directly applicable. If you want streaming access, this DVD-only format may frustrate you.
Pairs with: Ryan Hall’s Arm Triangles (3 DVD Set) for head-and-arm choke mastery from the same instructor, or Danaher’s Triangles ETS for the system-level interconnection Hall doesn’t provide.
4. The Science of Filthy Triangles – Neil Melanson
Catch wrestling meets jiu-jitsu in the most unconventional triangle instructional on this list. Neil Melanson’s “socket triangle” and “Melanson’s Law” are genuinely novel concepts you won’t find anywhere else, and his anatomy-based approach works for grapplers who think they have the wrong body type for triangles.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ Multi-hour across 8 volumes
- 📅 Released: ~2020
- 🥋 Both Gi and No-Gi (catch wrestling influence)
- 🎯 Intermediate to advanced
- 🕸 Unconventional Triangle System
What It Covers
Melanson builds his triangle system from catch wrestling principles, starting with his fundamental “Melanson’s Law” for triangle effectiveness and anatomy-based choking mechanics. The “socket triangle” is his signature variation – a positioning concept that creates a tighter strangle regardless of limb length. He covers reverse triangle entries, head control principles, and how a bad triangle makes a great kimura (submission combinations).
The 8-volume set includes entries from guard, half guard, and side control, plus drilling sequences. The catch wrestling influence means techniques that feel completely different from the standard BJJ approach to triangles.
What Makes It Stand Out
- “Socket triangle” – Melanson’s signature variation for tighter strangulation
- “Melanson’s Law” – fundamental principle not found in any other triangle instructional
- Anatomy-based approach addresses body type concerns (short legs, inflexibility)
- Catch wrestling mechanics give a completely fresh perspective on triangle attacks
- Bad-triangle-to-kimura transitions for when the choke isn’t working
- 8 volumes of depth from a coach who trained multiple UFC fighters
What the Community Says
“Melanson’s triangle system is one of the most effective in grappling” due to his catch wrestling background giving him “a new world of attacks to draw from.”
BJJ World
“Melanson’s book about triangles is a must-have for every serious grappler with great unique stuff and detailed explanations.”
Community consensus
Weakness
Melanson is a coach, not a high-level competitor, so the techniques lack the ADCC/Worlds validation that Danaher and Craig Jones bring. Catch wrestling terminology can confuse pure BJJ practitioners. Danaher’s system is more organized and interconnected, and Craig Jones’ techniques are more directly competition-tested. Production quality varies across volumes.
My Recommendation
Best for: Advanced practitioners who’ve already studied Danaher or Craig Jones and want fresh perspectives. Grapplers with non-ideal body types for triangles (short legs, limited flexibility). MMA fighters who want a coach-tested approach.
Avoid if: You want competition-proven techniques from elite-level competitors. If this is your first triangle instructional, start with Danaher or Ryan Hall instead.
Pairs with: Melanson’s The Yoko Sankaku (Side Triangle) for deeper side triangle coverage, or Danaher’s Triangles ETS for the systematic framework Melanson’s set lacks.
5. The Triangle Machine – Craig Jones
Seven competition-proven techniques in 40 minutes. Craig Jones strips the triangle down to its most effective components: his pre-lock tightening system, the exact ADCC flying triangle he used against Murilo Santana, and a reverse triangle from defended kneebar that nobody else teaches. This is a masterclass, not an encyclopedia.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ ~40 minutes (7 sections in 1 volume)
- 📅 Released: ~2019
- 🥋 Primarily No-Gi
- 🎯 Intermediate to advanced
- 🕸 Competition Triangle Masterclass
What It Covers
Section 1 covers Craig’s pre-lock adjustments for tightening the triangle before locking – different from conventional finishing taught elsewhere. Section 2 introduces his reverse triangle from defended kneebar, capitalizing on defensive reactions to leg locks. Sections 3-5 cover mounted triangle, side control triangle, and triangle from the back, with Craig’s signature “clamp system” for triangle control.
Section 6 teaches the low flying triangle from an uchi mata setup – a standing entry disguised as a takedown that works in both gi and no-gi. Section 7 breaks down the exact ADCC flying triangle Craig used against Murilo Santana at 2017 ADCC, with full setup, timing, and execution details.
What Makes It Stand Out
- ADCC flying triangle used against Murilo Santana at 2017 ADCC – competition-proven
- Reverse triangle from defended kneebar – unique technique not found elsewhere
- Pre-lock tightening system for finishing mechanics
- Uchi mata to low flying triangle – standing entry disguised as takedown
- Craig’s teaching style is concise, clear, and entertaining – zero filler
- 100+ competition wins by triangle at colored belts
What the Community Says
“What Craig demonstrates is the best way not only to keep the triangle structure but also tighten it up.”
BJJ World (5/5 rating)
“Well worth it for anyone looking to vary up their entries into the triangle choke.”
Alex Lindsey, JitsMagazine
“The triangle was Jones’ main attack at the colored belts, and he had literally over 100 competition wins by triangle.”
Sherdog forum user
Weakness
At ~40 minutes total, this is more of a masterclass than a comprehensive system. Only 7 techniques compared to Danaher’s 8 volumes or Ryan Hall’s 50 techniques. Does not cover opposite or side triangle variations. Basic sections may not add much for advanced practitioners. Neil Melanson and Ryan Hall both offer more comprehensive triangle systems for similar or less money.
My Recommendation
Best for: Intermediate to advanced no-gi practitioners wanting Craig Jones’ competition-proven entries. Those who prefer concise, no-filler instruction. Supplement to a more comprehensive triangle system.
Avoid if: You need a complete triangle education (buy Danaher or Ryan Hall first). If you’re a beginner, the material assumes baseline triangle knowledge.
Pairs with: Craig Jones’ Systematic Submission Dilemmas for the comprehensive system this masterclass supplements, or Danaher’s Triangles ETS for system-level depth.
Cheaper alternative: At $97 for 40 minutes, consider Ryan Hall’s Triangle ($49.99 for 4+ hours) if you want more content per dollar.
6. Invisible Triangle Concepts – Braulio Estima
ADCC champion Braulio Estima focuses on the setups your opponents don’t see coming. Instead of forcing triangle entries, Estima teaches you to create triangles from positions where your opponent thinks they’re safe. Hidden transitions, misdirection, and stealth entries from an all-time great.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ Multi-volume
- 📅 Released: ~2020
- 🥋 Both Gi and No-Gi
- 🎯 Intermediate to advanced
- 🕸 Stealth Triangle Entries
What It Covers
Estima’s approach is built around deception. Rather than drilling the conventional closed guard triangle path, he teaches entries that disguise the triangle setup behind other attacks. The instructional covers hidden triangle transitions from passing defense, back control, and scramble positions where the triangle opportunity appears and disappears in seconds.
As an ADCC champion with elite-level grappling experience, Estima brings competition-tested setups that work against opponents who know the standard triangle entries and defend them proactively.
What Makes It Stand Out
- ADCC champion credibility – techniques tested against the world’s best
- Stealth/invisible entries opponents don’t anticipate
- Focus on misdirection and hidden transitions rather than standard setups
- Complements conventional triangle systems by adding deceptive entries
What the Community Says
“Invisible Triangle Concepts” was specifically highlighted in BJJ World’s collection of best BJJ chokes instructionals alongside Danaher and Craig Jones.
BJJ World collection review
Weakness
Less comprehensive than Danaher, Craig Jones, or Ryan Hall as a standalone triangle system. Works best as a supplement to a foundational triangle education. Estima is better known for his back takes and the Estima Lock than for triangles specifically. For pure triangle depth at a similar price point, Danaher or Craig Jones’ SSD offer more.
My Recommendation
Best for: Intermediate to advanced grapplers who already have a triangle foundation and want to add deceptive entries. Competitors whose opponents defend conventional triangle setups.
Avoid if: This is your first triangle instructional. Start with Danaher, Ryan Hall, or Craig Jones for a complete system before adding specialty entries.
Pairs with: Any comprehensive triangle system (Danaher ETS, Ryan Hall, or Craig Jones SSD) as the foundational layer these invisible concepts layer on top of.
7. The Triangle Choke: Basics To Advanced – Joao Chiozzi
The most beginner-friendly triangle instructional on this list. Chiozzi (Marco Barbosa black belt) builds triangle attacks from simple collar and sleeve grips in the gi, covering 12+ positions with clear, immediately applicable setups. If Danaher or Ryan Hall feel too advanced, start here.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ Multi-hour (2-part series)
- 📅 Released: ~2024-2025
- 🥋 Gi-focused
- 🎯 White and blue belts
- 🕸 Beginner Triangle System
What It Covers
Parts 1 and 2 cover beginner-friendly triangle setups from closed guard using collar and sleeve grips, then expand to entries from knee on belly, mount, side control, defending pressure passing, and defending takedowns – 12+ positions total. Multiple finishing variations address different defensive reactions.
The instruction prioritizes immediate applicability: grip strategies for easy triangle traps, baiting sequences, and hidden details that experienced practitioners can layer on top of the basics.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Most accessible entry point for new grapplers building a triangle game
- 12+ positions covered with clear progressions from basic to advanced
- Collar and sleeve grip setups immediately applicable in gi training
- Budget pricing makes it low-risk for beginners testing the waters
What the Community Says
“Beginner friendly setups that you can immediately add to your game. More experienced practitioners will be treated with hidden details that will make a decent triangle even more effective.”
BJJ Fanatics product description
Weakness
Light on no-gi content, so no-gi practitioners should look elsewhere. Less depth than Danaher, Craig Jones, or Ryan Hall. Chiozzi lacks the elite competition credentials of the other instructors on this list. Ryan Hall’s $49.99 set offers more content and a more established instructor. If you’re blue belt or above, this likely won’t challenge you enough.
My Recommendation
Best for: White and blue belts building a triangle game from scratch in the gi. Budget buyers who want simple, immediately applicable triangle setups without overwhelming theory.
Avoid if: You’re blue belt or above (too basic). If you train no-gi, this set won’t serve you. Ryan Hall’s set at $49.99 offers more depth for a similar price.
Pairs with: Danaher’s Triangles ETS as the natural upgrade once you’ve built your triangle foundation, or Craig Jones’ Triangle Machine to add no-gi competition entries.
8. Reverse Triangle The World – Joel Bouhey
The only dedicated reverse triangle instructional on the market. Joel Bouhey (2nd degree black belt, Maui Jiu Jitsu) breaks down this underused submission from back control, guard recovery, and positions where most people don’t think a triangle is possible.
Quick Facts
- ⏰ Multi-volume
- 📅 Released: ~2021
- 🥋 Gi, No-Gi, and MMA applicable
- 🎯 Intermediate (all ranks welcome)
- 🕸 Reverse Triangle Specialist
What It Covers
Bouhey covers what the reverse triangle is, why it works mechanically, and how to apply it from multiple positions. Key entries include reverse triangle from back control and reverse triangle as a recovery submission after your guard has been passed. He connects the reverse triangle to his Falcon Guard system for guard players.
The set includes drills for building the motor patterns and addresses all the battles Bouhey has found success attacking from in competition and training.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Only dedicated reverse triangle instructional available anywhere
- Reverse triangle from back control – unusual and effective entry
- Guard recovery reverse triangle – submission when you’re in a bad position
- Connects to Bouhey’s Falcon Guard system for guard players
- Works for all sizes and ranks across gi, no-gi, and MMA
What the Community Says
“A perfect instructional for any grappler, no matter the size or rank, as Joel applies basic grappling fundamentals to his technique.”
BJJ Fanatics product description
Weakness
Very niche – covers only reverse triangles, not the full triangle family. Joel Bouhey is relatively unknown compared to Danaher, Craig Jones, and Ryan Hall. Limited community reviews and feedback. Danaher’s Volume 8 covers reverse triangles within his larger system, and Craig Jones also covers reverse triangles in both his instructionals. This is a supplement, not a primary triangle resource.
My Recommendation
Best for: Practitioners specifically wanting to develop a reverse triangle game. Guard players who use Bouhey’s Falcon Guard system. Those looking for an unusual, underused submission that surprises training partners.
Avoid if: You want a complete triangle education (buy Danaher, Ryan Hall, or Craig Jones first). The reverse triangle is niche enough that most grapplers should master conventional triangles before specializing here.
Pairs with: Any comprehensive triangle system (Danaher ETS, Ryan Hall, or Craig Jones SSD) as the foundation this niche specialist builds on.
Pricing & Deals
BJJ Fanatics runs frequent sales (40-60% off). Ryan Hall’s set is on Groundfighter.com at a fixed price. Here’s the retail pricing snapshot:
| Instructional | Retail Price | Runtime | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Triangles: Enter The System (Danaher) | ~$197 | 10+ hours | BJJ Fanatics |
| Systematic Submission Dilemmas (Craig Jones) | $197 | Multi-hour | BJJ Fanatics |
| The Triangle – Ryan Hall | $49.99 | 4+ hours | Groundfighter |
| Science of Filthy Triangles (Melanson) | ~$77-127 | Multi-hour | BJJ Fanatics |
| The Triangle Machine (Craig Jones) | $97 | ~40 min | BJJ Fanatics |
| Invisible Triangle Concepts (Estima) | Varies | Multi-volume | BJJ Fanatics |
| Triangle Choke: Basics to Advanced (Chiozzi) | <$50 | Multi-hour | BJJ Fanatics |
| Reverse Triangle The World (Bouhey) | Budget | Multi-volume | BJJ Fanatics |
Pro tip: BJJ Fanatics coupon codes rotate regularly. Check the homepage banner before purchasing. Sales of 40-60% off are common, making the $197 sets closer to $77-120 in practice.
Triangle Choke Glossary
- Front Triangle (Sankaku Jime) – The standard triangle choke from guard. One leg crosses behind the opponent’s neck, the other locks it in a figure-four. The most common triangle variation.
- Opposite Triangle (Hantai Senkaku) – Triangle with the lock on the opposite side from standard. Danaher’s Enter The System dedicates an entire volume to this underused variation.
- Rear Triangle – Triangle applied from back control. Uses the legs to strangle while maintaining back position.
- Side Triangle (Yoko Sankaku) – Triangle applied from a perpendicular angle, often from turtle or guard passing positions.
- Reverse Triangle – Inverted triangle applied from unusual angles, including from bottom positions. Joel Bouhey’s specialty.
- Socket Triangle – Neil Melanson’s signature triangle variation using anatomical positioning for a tighter strangle regardless of limb length.
- Trap Triangle – Danaher’s concept for trapping the opponent’s arm and head simultaneously to set up the triangle lock.
- Melanson’s Law – Neil Melanson’s fundamental principle for triangle effectiveness, drawn from catch wrestling mechanics.
- 50/50 BJJ Triangle – Ryan Hall’s methodology for breaking posture and maintaining angle during triangle attacks.
- Williams Guard – A guard position that creates natural triangle entry opportunities. Featured in Craig Jones’ Systematic Submission Dilemmas.
- Submission Dilemma – When defending one submission exposes another. Craig Jones’ system pairs triangles with leg locks so opponents can’t defend both.
FAQ – Triangle Choke Instructionals
What is the best triangle choke instructional for beginners?
Joao Chiozzi’s The Triangle Choke: Basics To Advanced is the most beginner-friendly option with clear collar and sleeve setups at a budget price. If you can handle more depth, Ryan Hall’s The Triangle ($49.99) teaches the concepts that will scale as you improve. Danaher’s Triangles ETS is comprehensive but heavy on theory for new grapplers.
Is Danaher’s Triangles: Enter The System worth the price?
At ~$197 retail (often 40-60% off during BJJ Fanatics sales), it’s the most comprehensive triangle instructional ever made. 10+ hours covering all 5 triangle types as a connected system. BJJ World gave it 5/5. If you want the encyclopedia and have the patience for Danaher’s lecture style, yes. If you prefer concise instruction, Craig Jones or Ryan Hall deliver faster.
Craig Jones Triangle Machine vs Systematic Submission Dilemmas – which should I buy?
The Triangle Machine is a 40-minute masterclass with 7 competition-proven techniques (ADCC flying triangle, reverse triangle from defended kneebar). Systematic Submission Dilemmas is a full 8-volume system combining triangles with leg locks. If you want a quick supplement, get Triangle Machine. If you want a complete competition system, get SSD. Many competitors own both.
Can I learn triangles effectively if I have short legs?
Yes. Neil Melanson’s Science of Filthy Triangles specifically addresses body type concerns with his anatomy-based approach and socket triangle. Danaher’s system also works for all body types. Craig Jones’ body type adaptations in Systematic Submission Dilemmas help too. The key is learning proper angle and hip positioning rather than relying on leg length.
Ryan Hall vs John Danaher for triangle instruction?
Sherdog forum users note that Ryan Hall covers more entries while Danaher covers more alternative triangle types and connections to other submissions. Hall is $49.99 for 4+ hours; Danaher is ~$197 for 10+ hours. If budget is tight, Hall is the clear winner. If you want all 5 triangle variations as an interconnected system, Danaher provides that framework.
What’s the best triangle instructional for no-gi competitors?
Craig Jones’ Systematic Submission Dilemmas if you want triangles combined with leg locks as one dilemma system. His Triangle Machine if you want quick, competition-proven entries. Danaher’s ETS works for both gi and no-gi. Ryan Hall’s set is more gi-focused but the principles transfer.
Do I need a triangle-specific instructional or does my guard instructional cover it?
Most guard instructionals cover 2-3 basic triangle entries. A dedicated triangle instructional teaches 20-50+ techniques, finishing mechanics, troubleshooting for common defenses, and entries from positions beyond guard (mount, side control, back, standing). If triangles are a significant part of your game, a dedicated instructional is worth it.
