Half Guard Basics

Today in class we reviewed some of the basics behind the basic half guard position, then we spent most of the rest of class rolling and getting our partners to make sure that we're not forgetting anything obvious.  This refresher has been much appreciated since I've managed to forget everything about half guard since my break.


Half Guard Tips:
- Triangle your legs (at least initially) around the other guys legs to keep your opponent from easily stepping out from your half guard.
- Always fight for the underhook.  When you get the underhook, keep it held as high as possible under your opponent's arm.  A lazy underhook can lead to a Darce choke, and just makes it easier for your opponent to work.
- Use the hand that you're not underhooking with to block your opponent's free hand.  (This is used to prevent the crossface and to just generally control him better.)
- Always keep on the side of your hip.
- Keep your head against your opponent's chest.  (Ear to his heart).  This gives your opponent less room to manouver with, and makes it a little harder to set up chokes against you.

Back Door Escape:
- Secure half guard (legs triangled, high underhook, on your side, head to opponent's chest)
- Open your leg triangle.
- Take your outside leg and hook it around your opponent's trapped leg.  Pull this leg out.
- Use the space you just made to get to your knees.

Additional Half Guard tips:

-         Always use your free hand to control the opponent’s hands.  This can be very effective in preventing them from passing 
-         Be very careful about chokes (guillotine, d’arce) if you’re sitting up and pressing your head against your opponent’s chest.  If you get to that position, work on your sweep or escape quickly.