What is Open Guard in BJJ?
Quick Definition
Any guard position where your legs are not closed around your opponent.
Full Explanation
Open guard encompasses all guard variations where your legs aren't locked around your opponent. This includes butterfly guard, spider guard, De La Riva, lasso, X-guard, and more. Open guards offer more mobility and attack options but require more skill to maintain because your opponent can move more freely. The key is active feet - constantly using your legs to create frames, hooks, and attacks.
Examples in Context
"My open guard game is based on De La Riva"
"He plays a dangerous open guard"
Related Terms
Guard
A position where you are on your back but using your legs to control your opponent.
Closed Guard
A guard position where your legs are wrapped around your opponent's waist with ankles crossed.
Butterfly Guard
A seated guard with your feet hooked inside your opponent's thighs.
Spider Guard
A gi guard using sleeve grips with feet on biceps to control distance.
De La Riva Guard
An open guard hooking around the outside of your opponent's lead leg.
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