BJJ Open Guard Concepts: Grips, Frames & Hips
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Master open guard concepts in BJJ: grips, framing, hip movement, guard retention and transitioning between open guard variations.
Contents
What Makes Open Guard Work
Open guard is any guard where your legs are not locked around the opponent. Success depends on three things: grip control, framing to create space, and constant hip movement to prevent passing.
Universal Open Guard Principles
| Principle | How to Apply |
|---|---|
| Grip First | Control sleeve/wrist before moving hips. Gripless guard = instant pass. |
| Hip Movement | Never stay square. Constantly angle away from pressure. |
| Frames | Use knees, shins, and arms to create distance before they close it. |
| Level Changing | Make your guard multi-level — high (spider/lasso) to low (De La Riva/X). |
| Guard Retention | When passed, shrimp back immediately. Don't accept bad positions. |
Guard Transitions Map
Open guard mastery means knowing when to transition: De La Riva → berimbolo; spider → triangle; lasso → omoplata; butterfly → X-guard. Chain your guards so there's always a next move when one fails.
Open Guard in No-Gi
Without grips, open guard relies on body control: knees to chest, wrist control, and underhooks. Butterfly, single-leg X, and 50/50 are the most viable no-gi open guards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best open guard for beginners?
Butterfly guard and De La Riva are the most beginner-friendly open guards. They teach fundamental hip movement and transitions to other positions.
How do I stop getting my open guard passed?
Prioritize grip fighting — if they break your grips, immediately reframe with your knees and shrimp. Don't remain flat on your back.
What open guard works best in competition?
De La Riva and spider guard are competition staples in gi. Single-leg X and butterfly dominate in no-gi. Choose based on your best sweeps and submission chains.