Closed Guard

The closed guard is one of the most fundamental and versatile positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). As a cornerstone of ground fighting, it provides a solid defensive base while opening countless opportunities for sweeps, submissions, and transitions. Whether you’re a beginner stepping onto the mats for the first time or an advanced practitioner refining your technique, understanding the nuances of the BJJ closed guard is essential for your progression. In this guide, we’ll break down what it is, why it’s crucial in BJJ, and how to master it step by step.

What is the BJJ Closed Guard?

The closed guard is a position where the practitioner on the bottom uses their legs to lock around the opponent’s waist, controlling their posture and limiting movement. This position is a cornerstone of BJJ because it provides both defensive and offensive options.

From the closed guard, you can neutralize an opponent’s attacks, set up sweeps to reverse positions, and launch submissions such as armbars and chokes. It’s a versatile position that allows you to maintain control while creating opportunities to dictate the fight’s flow.

Why is the BJJ Closed Guard Important?

The closed guard is pivotal in BJJ for several reasons:

1. Control and Defense: The locked legs act as a barrier, making it difficult for your opponent to pass your guard.
2. Attacking Options: The position allows you to execute a wide array of submissions, including arm locks, chokes, and shoulder locks.
3. Sweeps and Reversals: You can use leverage and momentum to sweep your opponent and transition to a more dominant position.
4. Accessibility for Beginners: this is one of the first positions taught to beginners because of its simplicity and effectiveness.

Step-by-Step Guide to the BJJ Closed Guard

Step 1: Establish the Position

• Lie on your back and wrap your legs tightly around your opponent’s waist.
• Cross your ankles and maintain a secure lock to prevent them from easily breaking your guard.
• Keep your knees slightly bent to create tension and control.

Step 2: Control Their Posture

• Use your hands to grip your opponent’s gi collar, sleeves, or wrists.
• Pull them toward you to break their posture and limit their ability to attack or pass.

Step 3: Transition to Attacks

• From the closed guard, set up attacks such as:
  • Armbar: Isolate one arm and swing your leg over their head for the submission.
  • Triangle Choke: Use one leg to trap their neck and arm while locking the other leg over it.
  • Kimura: Grip their wrist and secure a figure-four grip for a powerful shoulder lock.

Step 4: Execute Sweeps

• Use your hips and legs to off-balance your opponent. For example:
  • Scissor Sweep: Create space with your hips and use one leg to sweep them over.
  • Flower Sweep: Hook their arm and leg to tilt them off-balance.

Common Mistakes When Using the BJJ Closed Guard

Even though the closed guard is a fundamental position, many practitioners make avoidable mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Loose Leg Lock: Failing to keep your legs tight around your opponent allows them to easily break your guard.
2. Ignoring Posture Control: Letting your opponent maintain an upright posture reduces your control and attack opportunities.
3. Overcommitting to Attacks: Attempting submissions without proper setup can lead to guard passes or counterattacks.
4. Flat Back Positioning: Staying flat on your back limits your ability to pivot and create angles for sweeps or submissions.

Tip: Always maintain control of your opponent’s posture and stay active in looking for opportunities to attack or transition.

Drills to Improve Your Closed Guard

To master this guard, consistent practice is key. Incorporate these drills into your training:

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How the Closed Guard Fits Into Your Overall Game Plan

The closed guard is not just a position; it’s a platform for launching your offensive and defensive strategies. By mastering it, you’ll improve your ability to control the fight, stay safe from attacks, and dictate the pace of the match. It’s a gateway to understanding other guard variations and transitions, such as the open guard, butterfly guard, and half guard.

Conclusion

The BJJ closed guard is a vital position for practitioners of all levels. By understanding its fundamentals, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing essential drills, you’ll unlock its full potential. Whether you’re looking to defend against aggressive opponents, set up submissions, or sweep into dominant positions, the closed guard is a cornerstone of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Start incorporating these techniques into your training today and watch your game evolve. Have you mastered the closed guard? Share your experience and tips in the comments below, or explore our other guides to take your skills to the next level!