BJJ Closed Guard Basics | Week 8
Table of Contents
This Weeks Focus
The bottom closed guard is one of the most misunderstood positions in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, especially among new practitioners. In Week 8, we’ll build your understanding of its true purpose: posture control and damage prevention — not flashy submissions.
The primary goal of closed guard is to guard yourself, especially in a striking environment like MMA or real-world self-defense. Controlling your opponent’s posture buys you time, protects your face, and helps you safely return to your feet.
You’ll also learn the foundations of how to play closed guard in BJJ — including sweeps, submission setups, and the essential mechanics of breaking posture.
Key Concepts + Drills
Posture Control
Why it matters: Strikes become dangerous when the top player postures up. Your #1 priority is breaking and managing posture.
Key drill: Cross-collar grip with foot placement to break posture (gi or no-gi version)
Guard Retention
Use your knees and ankles to maintain closed guard — don’t let your guard be opened by pressure alone.
Solo drill: Wall sit-up to simulate guard re-closing
Basic Closed Guard Attacks
Beginner-friendly options:
Cross-collar choke (gi)
Armbar setup (concept, not full execution)
Scissor sweep (introduce mechanics)
Common Mistakes in Bottom Closed Guard
Letting the Top Player Posture Up
Why it matters: Posture allows strikes and makes you vulnerable.
Fix: Constantly fight for grips and maintain posture control.
Staying Flat on Your Back
Why it matters: Being flat kills your mobility.
Fix: Stay active on your hips and angle yourself to create openings.
Rushing Submissions
Why it matters: Premature submission attempts often lead to guard passes.
Fix: Focus on posture breaking and setups before attacking.
Passive Closed Guard
Why it matters: Holding guard without intent wastes energy and time.
Fix: Always use the guard to climb, control, off-balance, or escape.
Weekly Checklist
By the end of Week 8, aim to:
Break your partner’s posture using grips and hips
Control wrist and arm frames while keeping guard closed
Perform at least one sweep or controlled stand-up
Explain why posture control matters in both MMA and real life
Reflect & Review
Answer these questions after class:
Was I able to keep closed guard under pressure?
What part of posture control felt hardest to maintain?
Did I panic or stay calm while defending?
How would this feel if strikes were allowed?
Related Blog Posts for White Belts
👉Basic Submissions from Guard – What You Should Really Learn First
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⏭️ Move to Next Lesson Week 9 | Top Half Guard