How to Do the Williams Guard in BJJ
Williams guard reaches under the opponent's arm to grab your own shin, creating overhook-like control with leg and arm connected. This provides tremendous arm control and sets up omoplata, sweep, and submission chains.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Thread arm under their arm and grab own shin
- 2 Arm and leg create figure-four control on their arm
- 3 Trapped arm cannot post or defend
- 4 Set up omoplata, triangle, and sweeps
- 5 Maintain tight connection between arm and shin
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not grabbing shin tight enough
- ⚠️ Figure-four control too loose
- ⚠️ Not attacking from the position
- ⚠️ Lying flat instead of creating angles
- ⚠️ Allowing them to strip hand from shin
🔄 Variations
- → To omoplata
- → Williams guard sweep
- → To triangle
- → To armbar
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Strip hand from shin
- → Posture up strongly
- → Stack pass
- → Pull trapped arm free
Track Your Williams Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the Williams 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 Williams Guard? ▼
The Williams Guard is typically introduced at the purple belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Refining your personal game. Developing expertise in preferred positions.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Williams 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 Williams Guard? ▼
The Williams 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.