1. Deny the underhock
2. Deny grips
3. Arms glued to the body
4. Deny head control
5. Connect knee and Elbow
6. Base, Posture, Position
1. Deny the underhook
Time and time again, I've grappled with both beginners and seasoned BJJ practitioners who seem unaware of the significance of underhooks. Let me emphasize: you're at a disadvantage if someone gets an underhook on you. Never allow anyone to secure an underhook on you, no matter your skill level. Resist every time.
Treat your armpits as guarded territory; they're off-limits.
By consistently denying underhooks, you'll notice a marked improvement in your defence with each round. I can guarantee that if you're sparring with a higher-ranked belt, like a black belt, they will instantly recognize and commend your effort.
DENY THE UNDERHOOK!
Why is getting an underhook when at the bottom of half-guard a disadvantage?
The underhook is an anchor for the top player, allowing them to generate, and focus, a huge amount of energy on a very small place, the bottom player's neck. If the bottom player allows this anchor to be placed, he/she will allow a skilled top player to combine three powerful forces (1) weight, (2) upper body mussels by using their arms and (3) lower body muscle by pushing off their feet into your neck. This powerful combination of forces will no doubt cause huge problems for the bottom player as it will allow the top player the best possible scenario to break down the bottom player's half-guard.
Hit me up in the comments below if you have any questions.
Related Posts
