Task Based Games - Passing

Summary

The video focuses on advanced guard-passing techniques in grappling. The instructor emphasizes passing the opponent's feet first, then gaining upper body control to avoid frames and prevent counterattacks. He explains how controlling the feet reduces the opponent's ability to push back or regain guard. The session includes drills for passing the feet, maintaining position, and developing body control while staying balanced. The goal is to practice these movements until they become intuitive, making it easier to control and dominate opponents in real sparring situations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Emphasis on passing the feet first to prevent the opponent from framing and pushing back.
• 💪 Frames are the hardest thing to break through, so avoid allowing the opponent to create them.
• 🦶 Getting past the feet eliminates the opponent's ability to push back effectively with their legs.
• 🛡️ After passing the feet, use hand gripping deflection and maintain a comfortable position to lull the opponent into a false sense of security.
• 🤲 Securing an underhook helps in gaining upper body control and makes it difficult for the opponent to push away.
• ⚖️ Focus on balance and maintaining wide posts to avoid being swept when securing upper body control.
• 🎯 Problem-solving leg positioning is crucial to successfully passing the opponent's legs and securing a stable position.
• 🏋️‍♀️ Positional sparring drills focus on passing the feet while minimizing the use of excessive energy or force.
• 🚧 Blocking the opponent's thighs instead of their ankles limits their leg mobility and reduces their chances of regaining guard.
• 👐 Transitioning from thigh blocking to upper body control, such as underhooks or chest-to-chest positioning, is essential for dominating the position.

Q & A

What is the instructor’s approach to guard passing?

The instructor prefers to pass the feet first before gaining upper body control. This method avoids engaging directly with the legs, which can lead to frames that are harder to break through.

Why is passing the feet first emphasized over passing the legs?

Passing the feet first prevents the opponent from creating a platform to push back. The legs are stronger than the arms, so focusing on the feet avoids resistance that would occur if the legs are engaged first.

What does the instructor recommend after passing the feet?

After passing the feet, the instructor recommends making the opponent feel comfortable, then subtly gaining an underhook and staying close to prevent them from pushing you away or framing.

How does the instructor suggest preventing sweeps during guard passing?

The instructor suggests holding the opponent tightly so they cannot push you away, while also maintaining a wide posture to prevent being swept. Balance is key.

What role do frames play in guard retention, according to the instructor?

Frames are described as the hardest barrier to break through when trying to pass the guard. If you attempt to pass the legs directly, frames are set up quickly, making it harder to pass.

How does the instructor suggest improving foot passing techniques?

The instructor suggests doing hyper-specific positional sparring focused on just getting past the feet. This helps practitioners develop timing and control when passing the feet without allowing the opponent to push back.

Why does the instructor emphasize deflecting rather than blocking the opponent’s legs?

Deflecting the opponent’s legs allows the practitioner to use minimal energy while moving around the legs, preventing the opponent from getting control and allowing the practitioner to conserve energy.

What is the benefit of blocking the thighs instead of controlling the ankles?

Blocking the thighs is more efficient because it prevents the opponent from bringing their feet back into play. By controlling the thighs, the practitioner can use less energy and free their hands to fight for upper body control.

What is the final goal after successfully passing the feet and controlling the thighs?

The final goal is to gain upper body control, such as achieving underhooks, crossface, or chest-to-chest contact, to solidify the passing and prevent the opponent from regaining guard.

Why is upper body control the hardest part of the guard pass in this method?

Upper body control is challenging because the opponent knows the practitioner’s goal and will actively defend against it. However, mastering this skill in training will make guard passing easier in live sparring.