How to Avoid Getting Choked or Bear Hugged By An Attacker
There are two main moves that you’ll encounter from an attacker: the bear hug and the choke. Now, the choke can come in one of two variations: the front choke or the back choke. Both of these are equally as common and you’ll need to learn how to avoid getting choked against both. The bear hug is more of a transition attack, designed to drag a victim into a secluded area or to pull them to the ground.
This too is a common move that you’ll need to learn how to defend against. Fortunately, the techniques involved aren’t exceptionally complicated, and can even be practiced from the comfort of your own home with a partner (while using the proper safety precautions of course). With that being said, let’s take a look at how to Avoid Getting Choked .
Defending Against a Front Choke
The front choke can occur when you’re on the floor or against a wall and the attacker has their hands around your neck. In this case, escaping isn’t too difficult. Start by using one of your arms to wrap around the inside of the choking arms. From here, the attacker will only have a single hand to choke with, but that won’t last for every long. Once their hand is trapped, all that you need to do is roll to the side of the arm that’s trapped to gain a dominant position.
Defending Against a Back Choke
With a back choke, the first thing that you’ll want to do is lower your center of gravity. This will 
automatically cause the attacker to go slightly off balance. Place both hands over the attacker’s hands, pick your butt up, and throw them over your shoulder. Afterwards, you can either stay or take advantage of your dominant position or run.
Defending Against a Bear Hug
Defending Against a bear hug is very similar to defending against a back choke. The major difference is that instead of throwing your opponent over your shoulder, you’re going to be turning into them. Remember to lower your body weight, tuck your chin (to avoid the choke), and gradually turn into the attacker. If performed correctly, they’ll have no choice but to let go of their grip. The beauty behind all of these moves is that they will work effectively on any attacker, regardless of their size or strength.