Brazilian jiu-jitsu · Guard · Grips & posture

Closed guard retention

Partner tries to stand and open the guard; the bottom player keeps it closed and breaks posture.

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Time
10 min
Players
2–30
Age
U8+
Area
Mat

Setup

  1. Pairs, one in closed guard on the bottom.

How it runs

  1. Top player works to posture up and open the guard; bottom keeps it closed and pulls the posture down.
  2. Rounds of 60 seconds, then swap.
  3. Score for the top opening the guard or the bottom breaking posture three times.

Coaching points

  • Bottom: pull with the legs, not the arms.
  • Control the sleeve and the collar or head.
  • Top: hands on the hips, back straight.

Common mistakes

  • Bottom player squeezing with the knees only.
  • Top rounding the back.

Say it: “Pull with the legs.”

Make it harder

  • Bottom player must get a sweep or submission.
  • Top may use a standing break.

Make it easier

  • Top player kneels only.
  • Bottom player breaks posture, top doesn't resist.

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.