5 Guard Retention Tips
01. Avoid chest exposure
Keep your knees close to your chest AND your elbows close to your knees. Don’t push the opponent away with your feet without grips.
02. Maintain your centre line and ensure it is aligned with your partner’s centre line
The further away your head is from your partner the better. Keep their head and shoulders in between your legs.
03. Never have a flat back
Curling the spine improves a rocking movement ability.
04. Use the bottom of your feet and palms
…Or knuckles if making grips, as the first layer of your guard. If your opponent beats the first layer use your shins and forearms as a second lawyer, aiming to bring it back to the first layer.
05. Opponents who like to pass using forward pressure style or kneeling down, favour upper body guards.
And opponents who use a standing postured position, favour lower body guards.