Brazilian Jiu Jitsu The Guard

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and ground-fighting the most common position used is the Guard. In this position the opponent is said to be in the guard when one wraps the legs around the opponent. This becomes a dominating position as one can control the posture of the opponent.  In the guard position it is easy to apply joint locks and chokes. With the legs crossed behind the opponents back it is possible to straighten the legs, so as to restrict the breathing of the opponent. This position could be very uncomfortable for the opponent and obviously make it hard for them to breathe.

It is said by experts that 'being in someone's guard is not as severe as being mounted'. There are not many techniques that will defeat the opponent. It is better to escape and attain a position such as the mount and then apply submission holds. Yet another variant of this position is the simple 'closed' guard.  In this guard position one has to keep the head on the floor to save energy. If the opponent is throwing strikes, it is better not to leave head on the floor; it becomes easy for the opponent to knock out with nothing to cushion the blows. For beginners the 'closed' guard position is the best, it prevents the opponent from escaping easily. Scissor Sweep or the "Guard to Mount" is a transition technique. In this guard position the feet are uncrossed and put on the ground by putting weight on your right foot and left shoulder. With this movement on can take up the mounted position.