Triangles from top: We usually learn the classic front triangle stranglehold from bottom position first. There is a reason for this – because your back is on the ground there are no issues with balance and your legs are not bearing any weight and thus move freely and relatively easily into the triangle. As a result most people learn and practice front triangle from bottom position. Don't let this dissuade you however, from using front triangles from top. Triangles have a unique power to let you use the strength of your legs against an opponents head and arm – giving you a power advantage even against stronger opponents. It can feel like a challenge when you start out as now you have to find balance on top of an opponent as you try to finagle your legs into position whilst using them for balance and support at the same time. Stick with it – the potential benefits of the power of leg strangles will one day more than make up for some early frustrations.
