BJJ Blueprint Series : Escaping Closed Guard with Gordon Ryan

Simple and Effective: Just Stand Up to Open the Closed Guard

In this video, Gordon Ryan shares a basic yet highly effective approach to opening the closed guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Ryan argues that many fancy techniques are unnecessary, and the simplest solution is often the best: just stand up.

Why Standing Up Works

Ryan explains that the dangers of being pulled forward into submissions (like triangles or armbars) far outweigh the risks of being knocked backward. If you try to open the guard while kneeling, you expose yourself to various submission attempts. However, if you stand up and your partner knocks you backward, it's relatively easy to recover by entering into your partner's legs or pinching your knees together and standing back up.

Preferred Grips and Techniques

Ryan prefers using two inside bicep ties or V-grips inside the opponent's armpits. From there, he demonstrates a few methods to stand up:

* Classical Method: Flare a leg out and step the other leg up, achieving a vertical posture.

* Leaning Forward: Lean forward to get your head over your partner's head and pop up to two feet.

Dealing with Common Reactions

Ryan addresses common reactions from the opponent:

* Overhook: If the partner has an overhook, maintain the inside bicep tie and stand up. Control the opponent's hips to prevent them from creating an angle for an armbar.

* Underhook: If the partner has an underhook, use a shoulder crunch and stand up. Maintain a vertical posture and create space.

* Double Unders: Even with double unders, look to start standing up and making space.

Worst-Case Scenario and How to Handle It

The worst-case scenario is the opponent grabs both ankles and knocks you backward. In this case, pinch your legs together. When the opponent tries to get up, they won't be able to. From there, you can either attack their legs or lift their ankles as you both stand up.

Key Takeaways

* Simplicity: The simplest solution is often the best. Just stand up.

* Posture: Achieve a vertical posture to maintain control and avoid submissions.

* Grips: Use inside bicep ties or V-grips for better control.

* Adaptability: Be prepared to deal with common reactions and worst-case scenarios.

Conclusion

Gordon Ryan's approach emphasises simplicity and effectiveness. By focusing on standing up, you can open the closed guard more efficiently and safely, setting yourself up for successful guard passes and submissions.