How to Do the High Guard in BJJ
High guard climbs your guard up to the opponent's upper back or shoulders, creating extreme posture control. From this elevated position, triangles, armbars, and omoplatas become much easier to set up.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Break posture fully from closed guard
- 2 Climb guard up from waist to upper back
- 3 Feet may cross behind neck or upper back
- 4 High position gives direct access to triangles and armbars
- 5 Maintain high guard by actively pulling with legs
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not breaking posture before climbing
- ⚠️ Guard climbing without maintaining control
- ⚠️ Allowing posture up from high position
- ⚠️ Not attacking from elevated position
- ⚠️ Getting stacked while guard is high
🔄 Variations
- → Rubber guard entry
- → To triangle
- → To armbar
- → To omoplata
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Posture up before they climb
- → Stack pass from high guard
- → Stand up to break guard
- → Strip high leg hooks
Track Your High Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the High Guard and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the High Guard? ▼
The High Guard is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The High Guard works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the High Guard? ▼
The High Guard is typically executed from closed guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.