Reverse closed guard is a highly effective Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) technique that has gained significant popularity among martial artists worldwide. This defensive stance allows practitioners to control their opponents while positioning themselves for advantageous submissions and sweeps. In this article, we will delve into the fundamentals of reverse closed guard, its variations, and its strategic importance in BJJ competitions.
The reverse closed guard is a unique defensive position where the practitioner places their legs around the opponent’s neck, with the top leg crossed over the bottom leg. This creates a secure framework that can be used to control the opponent’s movements and dictate the pace of the fight. The key to mastering this position lies in proper footwork, hip mobility, and understanding the various options available from this stance.
One of the primary benefits of the reverse closed guard is its ability to neutralize an opponent’s attempts to establish dominant positions, such as the mount or side control. By maintaining control of the opponent’s posture, a practitioner can prevent them from passing the guard or executing submissions from dominant positions. This defensive prowess makes the reverse closed guard a crucial component of a well-rounded BJJ game.
There are several variations of the reverse closed guard, each offering unique advantages and strategies. One popular variation is the “reverse half-guard,” which involves keeping one leg on the opponent’s hip while the other leg is around the neck. This allows for a more dynamic guard and easier access to submissions. Another variation is the “reverse spider guard,” which involves wrapping the legs around the opponent’s arms, creating a more compact and controlling guard.
When executing the reverse closed guard, there are several key points to consider. First, proper footwork is essential to maintain balance and control. Practitioners should focus on staying light on their feet and moving their legs in a synchronized manner. Second, hip mobility is crucial for achieving a tight and secure guard. By actively using the hips, practitioners can create space for sweeps and submissions while also making it difficult for the opponent to escape.
One of the most exciting aspects of the reverse closed guard is the vast array of submissions and sweeps available from this position. Practitioners can attempt submissions such as the armbar, triangle choke, and rear-naked choke. Sweeps, such as the butterfly sweep and the scissor sweep, can also be executed from the reverse closed guard, allowing for a continuous flow of offensive and defensive maneuvers.
In BJJ competitions, the reverse closed guard is often a key component of a winning strategy. By controlling the opponent’s posture and movements, practitioners can create opportunities for submissions and sweeps while also making it difficult for their opponents to capitalize on their own strengths. This defensive stance requires a high level of skill, timing, and adaptability, making it a valuable asset for any BJJ practitioner.
In conclusion, the reverse closed guard is a fundamental and highly effective technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Its ability to control opponents, prevent dominant positions, and offer a wide range of submissions and sweeps makes it a crucial component of a well-rounded BJJ game. By focusing on footwork, hip mobility, and understanding the various variations and strategies, practitioners can master the reverse closed guard and elevate their BJJ skills to new heights.
