Bottom Half Guard Overview by Neil Melanson

This is an overview of the bottom half guard Jiu Jitsu technique. It features Neil Melanson.

I don't think a half guard leg position should ever be fixed. You should constantly adjust it because your opponent is always going to set and make his own adjustments to YOUR adjustments. You need to control range. When you're playing the bottom position, you must be careful that you're not putting yourself in a position where you cannot scramble. You need to be able to scramble.

You also need to protect your bottom leg and also have an option to get your bottom leg up. By keeping your bottom leg's knee flat against the mat, it will be difficult for your opponent to grab it and lift it. Try to make sure that you're bottom leg always has free access and avoid getting it trapped by your opponent.

Try to avoid having your bottom arm controlled. If your opponent grabs your wrist, you need to immediately strip it to keep him from controlling it.

When you're playing the Z Guard, one of the things to be concerned with is the Cradle Pass. The cradle works great for no gi grappling. You need to protect yourself from the cradle.

Be very careful overstretching yourself. When you play really open, your abdominals, legs, and spine stretch and makes them work harder, therefore making you expend more energy.

One thing that can backfire is if you post in this position. You want to make sure you keep your post back and as far away from your opponent as possible. From here, if your opponent tries to throw a punch, you can still back away. Always be heavy as possible on your post so it makes it harder for it to be moved.

If you're concerned about passing, always be in a position to get up.

Be careful exposing yourself to the halfguard. Just reaching in for no reason can backfire. If you're going to do it, you NEED to be explosive and get up and over as quick as you can.

Most important factors in the half guard are:
1. Pay attention to your range.
2. Pay attention to your bottom leg.
3. Protect your bottom post.
4. Always be explosive

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