The guard is a fundamental position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where a practitioner controls an opponent using their legs while being on their back or seated. The guard can be both defensive and offensive, serving as a barrier against attacks while also offering opportunities for sweeps, submissions, and positional advancements.

A strong guard player understands how to maintain distance, control an opponent’s posture, and create angles for attacks. Different types of guards provide different advantages, but the core principles remain the same—maintain control, stay mobile, and use leverage to nullify an opponent’s strength.

Since many matches involve time spent in guard, developing a solid guard game is essential. Whether using it to set up attacks or regain a stronger position, the guard is a critical tool for any grappler.