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Passing the closed guard is a fundamental skill in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling arts. Mastering advanced techniques can significantly improve your efficiency and effectiveness on the mat. This article explores some of the most effective methods for passing the closed guard with precision and control.
Understanding the Closed Guard
The closed guard is a position where the bottom player wraps their legs around their opponent’s waist, locking their ankles together. It provides excellent control and numerous attack options. However, passing this guard requires careful technique to avoid sweeps and submissions.
Key Principles for Effective Passes
- Maintain posture: Keep a strong, upright posture to prevent sweeps and submissions.
- Control the hips: Disrupt the guarder’s ability to move by controlling their hips.
- Stay tight: Keep your movements precise and avoid unnecessary space.
- Use leverage: Apply pressure and leverage to create openings.
Common Advanced Techniques
Several advanced techniques can be employed to pass the closed guard efficiently. These include the knee slice, toreando pass, and leg drag. Each requires specific setups and timing to execute successfully.
Knee Slice Pass
The knee slice involves slicing your knee across the opponent’s thigh while maintaining pressure. To execute:
- Start in a posture with your hands controlling the opponent’s hips or pants.
- Step your knee across their thigh, aiming to pin their hips.
- Maintain pressure and slide your other knee to the mat, establishing side control.
Toreando Pass
The toreando, or “bullfighting,” pass uses lateral movement to bypass the legs. To perform:
- Grip the opponent’s ankles or pants for control.
- Move laterally, pushing their legs aside with your arms.
- Step around their legs, establishing side control once past.
Leg Drag
The leg drag involves pulling the opponent’s leg across your body to open a passing lane. To execute:
- Control their ankle or shin.
- Drag their leg across your body while maintaining upper body control.
- Follow through with a knee slice or back step to pass.
Drilling and Practice Tips
Consistent drilling of these techniques is essential for mastery. Focus on timing, posture, and control. Use drills with a partner to simulate live situations and develop muscle memory.
Watching instructional videos and analyzing high-level matches can also provide insights into effective guard passing strategies. Remember, patience and persistence are key to advancing your skills.