Guard passing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu revolves around key principles: breaking the opponent’s defensive structure, maintaining balance and posture, and advancing to a dominant position while avoiding risks. The primary goal is to neutralize the opponent’s legs, which act as their primary line of defense, without exposing yourself to submissions or sweeps.
In a closed guard, the focus is on creating space and maintaining a strong posture to minimize vulnerability, while strategically working to open their guard. Once open, the aim shifts to controlling their hips and upper body to bypass their defenses.
In an open guard, control of the opponent’s legs and effective weight distribution are crucial to prevent counters. Guard passing seeks not only to neutralize the opponent's defense but also to transition into dominant positions like side control or mount. These positions allow you to assert control, pursue submissions, or establish a decisive advantage.
The process requires patience, adaptability, and a balance between offense and defense.