Understanding and mastering the closed guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a crucial skill for any practitioner looking to excel in the art. The closed guard, also known as the closed guard position, is a defensive stance where the guarder wraps their legs around the attacker’s waist, effectively controlling their movement and setting up opportunities for submission holds or sweeps. This article delves into the intricacies of the closed guard, its benefits, and the techniques required to perfect this fundamental position in BJJ.
The closed guard is a versatile and powerful stance that offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides a significant amount of protection against takedowns and submissions. By holding the attacker’s legs, the guarder can prevent them from executing a successful sweep or submitting them with a joint lock or choke. Additionally, the closed guard allows the guarder to control the flow of the match, dictating the pace and positioning.
One of the primary benefits of the closed guard is its ability to create space for offensive maneuvers. By maintaining control of the attacker’s legs, the guarder can set up sweeps, transitions, and submission attempts with relative ease. This control also allows the guarder to escape unfavorable positions, such as the mount or side control, by executing effective guard passes.
To master the closed guard, one must first learn the proper form and positioning. The guarder should aim to keep their legs tight and close to their body, with the knees and feet positioned on either side of the attacker’s hips. This tight seal makes it difficult for the attacker to escape or apply submissions. Additionally, the guarder should maintain a strong base by keeping their feet flat on the mat and their hips square to the opponent.
One of the most fundamental techniques in the closed guard is the guard pass. The guard pass involves manipulating the attacker’s legs and hips to move them out of the closed guard position, thus gaining a superior position. There are various guard passing techniques, such as the De la Riva pass, the X-guard pass, and the spider guard pass, each with its unique nuances and applications.
Another essential skill in the closed guard is the ability to apply submissions. Common submissions from the closed guard include the triangle choke, the armbar, and the guillotine choke. These submissions require precise timing, leverage, and a deep understanding of the attacker’s movements. Practitioners must be familiar with both the technical aspects and the energy flow of these submissions to be effective.
In addition to submissions and guard passing, the closed guard also serves as a platform for sweeps. Sweeps are techniques that allow the guarder to take the attacker’s balance and move them into a vulnerable position. Some popular sweeps from the closed guard include the Kimura sweep, the americana sweep, and the De la Riva sweep. These sweeps require coordination, timing, and the ability to anticipate the attacker’s movements.
In conclusion, the closed guard is a vital component of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, offering both defensive and offensive advantages. By focusing on proper form, guard passing, submissions, and sweeps, practitioners can master the closed guard and enhance their overall skill set in the art. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced grappler, dedicating time and effort to the closed guard will undoubtedly pay dividends in your BJJ journey.
