Closed Guard FREE Videos & Techniques – Curated BJJ Guide
Closed guard is your control hub from bottom—locking the hips, breaking posture, and chaining attacks. On this page, we’ve curated the best free videos, clips, and breakdowns on armbar/triangle/omoplata series, hip bump and pendulum sweeps, cross-collar and overhook systems, posture control, and guard retention—gi and no-gi. Compare teaching styles from names like John Danaher, Roger Gracie, Bernardo Faria, Lachlan Giles, and Priit Mihkelson, plus modern closed guard variations (clamp, high guard, Williams guard). Browse hand-picked instructionals, quick tips, and match breakdowns to see setups, timings, and counters side-by-side, then drill with clear progressions from basics to chained attacks. Keep scrolling, watch the sequences, and level up your closed guard step by step. Read the full Closed Guard position guide.
Closed Guard Guard Retention (17 Videos)
The Black Hole: No-Gi Closed Guard by Professor Henry Akins
$279.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This instructional video features BJJ legend, Professor Henry Akins, demonstrating the power and effectiveness of the No-Gi Closed Guard. He unveils unique techniques to control, sweep, and submit opponents effectively and provides intricate details about manipulating opponents' posture, controlling their weight, and adjusting angles. Akins aims to challenge the assumption that the closed guard is ineffective without the gi, hoping to change viewers' perspectives towards making the closed guard their best position.
Simplify the System: Side Scissor by Brian Glick
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video is a five-part instructional course by BJJ black belt Brian Glick which revolves around mastering the side scissor from the closed guard position. The side scissor is a unique closed guard variation that helps you to outflank opponents, avoid pressure, and generates diverse offense. It presents a system of attack whereby forcing the opponent into predictable defensive reactions. This position allows the user to take their opponent's back or create opportunities for sweeps and submissions. The course semantics include techniques like the knee pull, 2 on 1 grip, and utilizing head height. It also navigates through integrating other closed guard variations like the top lock and clamp position with the side scissor.
Closed Guard Efficiency by Rayron Gracie
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, representative of the iconic Gracie family in jiu-jitsu, Rayron Gracie teaches on efficiency in the closed-guard position. Emphasizing cleanliness of technique and timeless principles, the course offers a structured approach for any jiu-jitsu practitioner level. Abiding by the Gracie reputation, the focus is on simplicity and high-level fundamentals against resisting opponents, with no room for gimmicks or unnecessary complexity.
Closed Guard: BJJ Fundamentals - Go Further Faster by John Danaher
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features instructor John Danaher teaching techniques on how to exploit vulnerabilities from the Closed Guard position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He presents six main vulnerabilities to target, breaks down the mechanics behind each attack, and explains the strategic significance of these tactics. Aside from focusing on attacking, Danaher also emphasizes how to counter moves from the opponents. Various technical methods to achieve top locks, clamp guards, and side scissors are demonstrated throughout the video.
New Wave Jiu Jitsu: Closed Guard - Building a Complete Closed Guard System by John Danaher
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This course offers a comprehensive strategy for effective closed guard retention taught by John Danaher. The instructor delves deep into closed guard techniques such as the side scissor, the clamp, double underhooks, and the top lock. There's emphasis on attacking legs against opponents who stand within the guard, and employing leg locking strategies. Another key concept taught is a two-stage method to controlling the fight for shorter grapplers.
Forging The Guard: Mastering The Foundations of Closed Guard by Giancarlo Bodoni
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video is a detailed instructional on the foundational elements of the closed guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by ADCC Champion Giancarlo Bodoni. The instructor demonstrates advanced strategies to conserve energy, slow opponents, and the possibilities of offensive play from the closed guard. He also covers a variety of high-percentage submissions, sweeps, and back takes players can execute based on their opponent's defensive reactions. The video addresses potential transitions to leg entries following unsuccessful attacks, contributing to a comprehensive closed guard system.
The Closed Guard Compendium by Matt Thornton
$159.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video by instructor Matt Thornton focuses on the crucial techniques, concepts, and drills required to maintain a strong Closed Guard position in BJJ. Over 40 lessons are included, encompassing a range of skills from sweeps and submissions to defense strategies. The video emphasizes that the ability to control the Closed Guard does not rely on being a superior athlete, but rather on learning and applying superior technique. Matt insists on the enduring relevance of the Closed Guard in the sport, despite changing trends.
Closet (Closed) Guard by Craig Jones
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video tutorial features BJJ expert Craig Jones as he instructs on how to master the Closed Guard, a key position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Craig discusses key elements of this position, including posture controls, grip variations, sweeps, and submissions. He further elucidates on common mistakes practitioners make while playing the Closed Guard and provides strategies to exploit defensive opponents and approach systematic Omoplata, armbar, and triangle finishes. Craig also covers powerful Closed Guard variations and provides troubleshooting advice to overcome common defensive tactics.
Closed Guard Submissions (Top 20 Videos)
Systematically Attacking From Closed Guard by Gordon Ryan
$349.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video teaches learners about Gordon Ryan's system for sweeping and submitting opponents from the closed guard position. Developed with John Danaher, the system is designed to be effective regardless of age or skill level. With emphasis on these fundamentals, learners can elevate their closed guard game and improve their overall performance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Closed Guard Attacks by Henry Akins
$279.00 • BJJ Fanatics
Henry Akins, a highly-regarded longtime black belt, provides instruction on improving your closed guard game in "Closed Guard Attacks." This video offers insights into developing a sophisticated system of closed guard attacks that Henry has refined over decades in Jiu-Jitsu. He provides a systematic approach to building hard-to-stop closed guard combinations, thereby posing significant challenges for opponents forced to choose between being swept or submitted. The series adds new life to classic techniques with unique details that can be easily overlooked in today's vast range of techniques.
The Daisy Fresh Curriculum: Blue Belt No Gi Stripe 3 by Heath Pedigo
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Heath Pedigo, one of the top coaches in the sport, provides a No Gi Curriculum for Blue Belts. The main focus of the video is on teaching competition grade ankle locks and closed guard tactics. Furthermore, Pedigo shares some posture controls, submission setups, sweeps, and back takes to enhance your closed guard game. Additionally, he illustrates how to counter the double under pass using unique submission opportunities.
Corner Lock High Guard by Neil Melanson
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video is a tutorial by Neil Melanson on the Corner Lock technique from the High Guard position. Neil, a highly regarded grappling coach, explains his signature high guard game, detailing control techniques and numerous submission attacks. Aimed at both MMA and regular grappling practitioners, this video is perfect for those exploring the high guard for the first time or those looking to add new skills to their repertoire.
Coral Belt Concepts: Closed Guard by Fabio Gurgel
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features Fabio Gurgel, a 7th-Degree Coral Belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, giving a comprehensive tutorial on working from the closed guard position. He covers a variety of submissions including armbars, triangles, balloon sweeps, and ankle picks. Fabio emphasizes the importance of combination attacks, controlling posture, and effective gripping. He also gives tips on defending your guard against standing opponents.
Wrist Lock The World: No Gi by Pete Letsos
$97.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video provides an instructional guide by Pete Letsos on how to effectively perform wrist locks from a closed guard in No Gi Jiu-Jitsu. Pete presents various closed guard variations and reactionary wrist lock techniques. The video emphasizes the effectiveness of wrist locks in improving submission consistency and adds a new dimension to one's game without needing to change the whole strategy.
The Art & Science Of Locking The Shoulder From Closed Guard by Denny Prokopos
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features instructor Denny Prokopos providing a detailed guide on how to effectively lock the shoulder from the closed guard position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This technique has been developed by Prokopos over a decade and serves as a control and submission strategy. He also shows his preferred methods of breaking an opponent's posture to seamlessly execute the locked shoulder position, paving ways for potential armbars. Furthermore, he explains how to transition from this position to other submission and sweep options.
The Timeless Closed Guard by Rafael Lovato Sr.
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features Rafael Lovato Sr. instructing viewers on how to use the classic closed guard position effectively. He imparts timeless techniques suitable for grapplers of all ages. The video emphasizes dominant gripping sequences, effective sweeps, and submission traps that finish the fight, including specific techniques like triangle chokes, omoplatas, and armbars. Lovato Sr.'s advice on dealing with resistance when working towards a submission is also highlighted.
The Effective Closed Guard Submissions by Marcos Tinoco
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Marcos Tinoco, an IBJJF World Medalist and black belt under Marcelo Garcia, teaches the viewer how to do effective Closed Guard Submissions. He explains various strategies, set-ups, and attacks for a potential more formidable guard game. The focus is on creating opportunities for reversals along with dangerous closed guard submissions. Multiple set-ups are demonstrated to guide your training partners and opponents into these submissions.
Closed Guard Attacks For All Levels by Dan Covel
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Dan Covel shares different attack techniques from the closed guard position. With over 20 years of BJJ training and numerous competition wins, Covel has developed effective gripping sequences and angle Jiu-Jitsu strategies. These techniques aim to help viewers enhance their offense from the closed guard, increase their dominance over opponents, and succeed in finishes at a higher rate.
Closed Guard Guard Passing (Top 20 Videos)
Inside The Closed Guard by Henry Akins
$279.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video presents Henry Akins demonstrating his strategies and techniques for effectively handling situations Inside the Closed Guard. Akins offers tips on how to control the bottom player, protect against submissions, and eventually disrupt the Guard Position for Pass. The video puts a focus on handling common attacks such as the hip bump sweep, armbar, and cross collar choke. Additionally, Akins shares his signature "arm behind the back" guard break and pass technique, as well as his ultimate triangle escape. In summary, it's an insightful guide for anyone looking to improve their game Inside the Closed Guard.
Breaking Open The Secrets of Closed Guard by Andre Galvao
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features BJJ expert, Andre Galvao as he teaches breaking closed guards. Andre shares impressive guard passing techniques, demonstrates how to maintain a safe position while breaking a closed guard, and advises on ways to handle common closed guard submission attempts such as the cross choke and Ezekiel. In addition, viewers learn different passing methods including standing passes, stack passes, step overs, handcuff passes, and more for a variety of guard scenarios. Specific sparring examples from closed guard are also shown to display Andre's favorite techniques in action.
Unstoppable Pressure Passing by Tarsis Humphreys
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video is a detailed instructional guide given by Tarsis Humphreys on passing the closed guard with a technique called the Knee Pin Pass. The video explains in depth the different variations of properly standing up in the closed guard, a fundamental aspect of the overall technique. Tarsis also introduces and explains the Anchor Concept, an important strategic element in effective guard passing. The instruction is clear and detailed, making it a useful guide for both beginners and advanced practitioners.
Science Of Opening The Closed Guard by Matheus Gonzaga
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features black belt competitor Matheus Gonzaga from Atos, teaching the science of opening the closed guard effectively. He advises on how to evade submissions and sweeps, ensuring you stay safe whilst doing so. Matheus elaborates on the most technical ways to stand up and break guard, which then sets up solid opportunities for guard passes.
Opening The Closed Guard by Ricardo Testai
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This instructional video by Ricardo Testai teaches the technique of standing up in the closed guard position to open it for passing. Emphasizing the importance of hip control, the tutorial outlines a versatile set of moves usable in Jiu Jitsu competition, MMA, or self-defense contexts. Viewers learn to maintain balance and create necessary space, the basics of mastering guard passing.
Guard Busters by Bill Cooper
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features instructor Bill Cooper teaching innovative guard busting tactics designed to open the closed guard while preventing sweeps and submissions. The 3-part series provides over a dozen unique guard opening techniques that put the student in a strong position to start passing. Additionally, it offers insights on implementing fast-acting leg locks directly from opening the guard, as well as perfecting the Boston Crab move.
Closed Guard Sweeps (Top 20 Videos)
The Roger Gracie Closed Guard System by Roger Gracie
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video is an instructional seminar led by 10-time World Champion Roger Gracie. The video focuses on the closed guard position and covers various techniques for implementing and dominating from this position. Techniques discussed and demonstrated include cross chokes, lapel chokes, arm locks, scissor sweep, hook sweep, and lumberjack sweeps. The seminar also provides strategies for maintaining and controlling from the closed guard position, offering a comprehensive insight into effective Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practice.
The Super Six Sweeping System by Ante Dzolic
$97.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video presents an in-depth exploration of the Super Six Sweeping System from the closed guard position, taught by instructor Ante Dzolic. It assists viewers in developing a comprehensive closed guard game, highlighting how to effectively respond to different alignments from an opponent in closed guard. The video provides both fundamental and advanced techniques, helping practitioners seize their opponents' strengths and weaknesses, plan a strategic sweep to attain a dominant top position, and secure a win. The instruction features a diverse range of sweep and submission combinations to constantly keep the opponent on the defensive.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu For Competition Kids by Devhonte Johnson
$97.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features Devhonte Johnson instructing kids on how to properly use closed guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition. Johnson emphasizes developing strength and coordination through specific exercises and provides guidance for executing hip bump sweeps, arm drags, as well as tips to defend against a standing opponent. He leverages his considerable experience as an elite competitor to provide practical advice and strategies to enhance performance on the mat.
The Effective Closed Guard Sweeps by Marcos Tinoco
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In the video, Marcos Tinoco teaches effective sweeps from the closed guard position. He explains and demonstrates a series of tactics for control and recovery that are applicable at all levels. He also provides strategies to turn defense into offense, including using a cross grip series to dominate from the closed guard position. Additionally, he discusses how to recover guard from various positions and shares concepts to re-establish an efficient closed guard.
Dominating From Closed Guard by Igor Silva
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Igor Silva provides instruction on effective techniques that can be used for sweeps when in the closed guard position. Silva emphasizes the importance of proper mechanics in executing these sweeps. He also advocates for a competition mindset, which includes aiming to land in the mount position from a sweep to gain points in a competitive setting.
The Full Guard A Relic Remastered Volume 2: Sweeps and Angles by Josh Moody
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
Josh Moody, a BJJ black belt, instructs on how to incorporate essential sweeps, top lock submissions, and a full guard variation called the monkey guard. The monkey guard allows the guard player to gain control over the opponent's posture and opens up several high-percentage attacks. The video is designed to handle guard passers from both kneeling and standing scenarios with perfectly tailored techniques. The aim of this instructional video is to upgrade the viewers' full guard.
Sweep Everyone by Adam Miller
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features 4th degree Black Belt, Adam Miller, who teaches a variety of unique sweeping techniques that can be deployed from the closed guard position. These moves consist of various controlling principles and can directly transition into dominant positions or submissions, offering a difficult challenge for your opponent. The video also includes modified, classic techniques such as the muscle sweep and the scissor sweep intended to counter modern strategies. The overall goal of Miller's master class is to develop a comprehensive attack system from the closed guard, encompassing setups, sweeps, variations, and submissions.
Relentless Closed guard Attacks by Steffen Banta
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video tutorial outlines different self-defense techniques from the closed guard position, taught by Steffen Banta, an up-and-coming BJJ competitor. The video emphasizes controlling the opponent's posture, balance, and weight to execute moves effectively. Banta elaborates on several sweeps, including the flower sweep, scissor sweep, and lumberjack sweep, as well as submission holds like the omoplata and the triangle. The video also shows Banta applying these techniques in actual sparring sessions.
The Flower Sweep Basics To Advanced by Ante Dzolic
$47.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features Ante Dzolic discussing the Flower Sweep, a powerful technique from the closed guard position. He emphasizes that the Flower Sweep is more than a singular move, it can be a key part of a strong and effective system. He teaches how to use the Flower Sweep unpredictably, forcing the opponent to either be swept or submitted. He also shares his proactive approach and quintuple attack strategy, which help in controlling the action.
Effective Closed Guard Combinations: Sweeps & Submissions by Denilson Pimenta
$47.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This instructional video by 5th degree black belt Denilson Pimenta teaches effective combinations of sweeps and submissions from the closed guard position. Developing an onslaught of hard-to-defend sequences, Denilson shares tips to transition seamlessly between attacks. The aim is to force your opponent to choose between getting swept or submitted, successfully increasing your control in a match.
Closed Guard Transitions (16 Videos)
Modern Jiu-Jitsu For MMA by Neiman Gracie
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video is a tutorial provided by Neiman Gracie on modern Jiu-Jitsu techniques for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). He focuses on exploiting range, closing the distance, taking down the opponent, and finishing the fight efficiently. He also discusses adapting your closed guard to maintain safe positions against fights involving punches and elbows while using his favorite sweeps and submissions. The video essentially shows how to revitalize traditional Jiu-Jitsu techniques for MMA fights.
Closed Guard Escapes (7 Videos)
Closed Guard Concepts/Strategy (1 Videos)
The Daisy Fresh Curriculum: White Belt Bundle by Heath Pedigo
$697.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video is an instructional masterclass by Heath Pedigo, specifically designed for white belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners. It provides comprehensive strategies and techniques focusing on standing techniques, attacking from the closed guard position, guard retention and escaping from difficult positions. It also offers specific training details for rapid improvement, teaching unique escapes and tournament tested techniques such as taking the back from closed guard and finishing with the bow and arrow choke. The package includes all four videos covering these techniques and strategies.
Closed Guard Positional Control (2 Videos)
Closed Guard Fundamentals by Adele Fornarino
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
Summary: The video is an in-depth tutorial by Adele Fornarino on the fundamentals of the closed guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She uses a principle-driven approach to break down techniques related to control, timing, and launching successful attacks from this classic position. Her teachings cover essential elements such as posture-breaking, grip domination, sweeps, submissions, and transitions that have proven to be effective in top-tier competitions.
Closed Guard Leg Locks (1 Videos)
Inside Guard Secrets RDLR & The False Reap by Kieran Kichuk
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This is an instructional video by Kieran Kichuk teaching how to execute heel hooks from various major leg locking positions such as the saddle and 50/50. Kieran also explains the Reverse De La Riva (RDLR) guard and how to use it to control, off-balance and set up opponents for offensive moves. He further demonstrates how the False Reap can help set up potent submission techniques. This is part of a 4-volume series by the instructor.
Closed Guard Survival/Defense (1 Videos)
Surviving The Closed Guard by Ante Dzolic
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video provides an exhaustive guide to surviving and passing the closed guard position. Instructor Ante Dzolic discusses techniques from both top and bottom positions, including various sweep variations. The objective is to equip viewers with a deep understanding of how these techniques work, and how to use them effectively to enhance their offense and guard retention.