The rubber guard is both a versatile and effective Jiu-Jitsu self-defense technique that should be used by anyone who would like to submit more opponents and get more sweeps. In the following sections, we’ll talk more about the rubber guard and its unique intricacies.
Breaking Your Opponent Down
The first and most fundamental step associated with the rubber guard is having the ability to break your opponent’s posture when you’re on your back. Only after you’ve done this will you be able to start working your sweeps and submissions. Remember that you can’t fully master the rubber guard without first learning how to properly breakdown your opponent.
Minimizing the Stack
A lot of the times when you’re using this Jiu-Jitsu self-defense move, you’ll notice that your opponent will attempt to “stack” you (forcing your legs over your head). When this happens, it is important that you keep your free leg on their hip to prevent them from pushing forward. The best part about doing this is that even if they stand up, you’ll still be able to nullify your position and work your submissions.
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Preventing the Guard Escape
In order to prevent your opponent from escaping the guard, it is important that you remember to keep your leg over his lower back. Opponents who are familiar with the rubber guard will often attempt to sit straight back when they feel that you’ve got too tight a hold on their head and arms. Fortunately, keeping a firm grip on your hands, and keeping your free leg on your opponent’s back will prevent them from escaping.
Pants vs. No Pants – Which is better for the Rubber Guard?
Does the rubber guard work best for gi or no-gi Jiu-Jitsu self-defense? As a general rule of thumb, it is always better and easier to apply rubber guard submissions when you are wearing gi pants. Even if you’re practicing no-gi, you should still be wearing pants as they’ll be able to provide you with the grip and leverage that you need to perform certain techniques.
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A Key Fundamental – The Headlock Clinch
This is a fundamental guard clinch that you can use to keep your opponent down while you attempt to work the rubber guard. Basically, it works like this: whenever your opponent is sitting in your closed guard, base up and wrap both of your arms around their head. As you sit back, bring them with you. This accomplishes two things: it breaks their posture and it allows you to start working your rubber guard.
Above all, the rubber guard is a really effective technique that can be used to get more submissions and sweeps from your back. Just remember that breaking down your opponent and eliminating their ability to posture up is the most important aspect of the position.