How to Pass Half Guard in BJJ | Week 11
Table of Contents
This Weeks Focus
In Week 11, we focus on learning how to pass half guard in BJJ from the top position. As a beginner, understanding chest-to-chest connection, controlling the upper body, and neutralizing your opponent’s knee shield are critical. This lesson introduces the Reverse Kesa Pin — a high-control position that keeps you safe from sweeps and guard recovery while setting up transitions to side control or mount.
Understanding Top Half Guard in BJJ
Top half guard is a pinning position where your opponent traps one of your legs. The key is recognizing that you’re only a single leg away from achieving a dominant position like side control or mount. Before you think about submissions or flashy passes, you need to focus on control first. This means:
Closing the distance to prevent space creation.
Establishing chest-to-chest contact.
Controlling their upper body before freeing your trapped leg.
Beating the Knee Shield for Beginners
For most beginners, the biggest obstacle in top half guard is the knee shield. This defensive frame is your opponent’s strongest tool for maintaining space and blocking your advance.
Goal: Remove or bypass the knee shield without giving up balance.
Key Tip: Use your hands and hips to flatten the leg while simultaneously working toward an underhook or head position that kills their frame.
Once the knee shield is neutralized, you’ll find it much easier to achieve upper body control and set up your pass.
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The Reverse Kesa Pin
The first half guard pin every white belt should learn is the Reverse Kesa Pin. This position:
Keeps your hips heavy and angled toward your opponent’s legs.
Protects you from sweeps and guard recovery.
Gives you the control needed to work methodically toward freeing your trapped leg.