Back to Techniques
StandingTop
Beginnerdonkey guard
N/A
Taught by:Nathan Merkle
Share
Share this page
About This Technique
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Donkey Guard
Position Origin: Standing
While not a traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) technique, the Donkey Guard is notable for its creativity and uniqueness. Typically used as a playful or unexpected move rather than a staple technique, the Donkey Guard’s unconventional nature is more suited for exhibition rather than competition.
Setup:
-
**Begin Standing: **
- Start in a standard grappling stance, facing your opponent.
-
**Gain Distance: **
- Use footwork to create space between you and your opponent. This could involve a quick sidestep or backward movement.
Diving into the Guard:
-
**Turn & Invert: **
- With swift motion, turn your back to the opponent.
- Tuck your chin and initiate a forward roll, so that your head approaches the ground and your legs lift upwards.
-
**Place the Hand(s): **
- As your head approaches the ground, place one or both hands to stabilize yourself, acting like a tripod with your head. Your feet should point upwards.
-
**Control with the Feet: **
- Ideally, ensuring your feet make contact with the opponent's torso or hips.
- Use your feet to feel for balance and control. If suitable, get hooks on your opponent's arms or body to pull them into a vulnerable position.
Off Balancing & Transition:
-
**Apply Pressure: **
- Shift your weight to tilt your opponent forward. This can be initiated with forward shifts or by pressuring with your feet.
-
**Capitalizing on Movement: **
- As your opponent reacts, you can adjust your leg positions for a sweep or transition to a more controlled guard, such as inverting into a berimbolo.
-
Execute a Sweep or Transition:
- Depending on your opponent’s reactions, transition to a dominant position such as back control or side mount.
Important Considerations:
- Safety First: Always ensure you perform this in practice environments and with skilled partners until comfortable.
- Element of Surprise: Use it sparingly in real matches—opponents may not expect this playful maneuver.
Practical Use:
While the Donkey Guard can add an element of fun and surprise, it's crucial to remember that traditional guards like closed, open, or half guard provide more control. As of now, the Donkey Guard does not have an associated Japanese name, as it’s a more modern, playful innovation within the evolving landscape of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
How to Execute
# Donkey Guard from Standing Position in BJJ
## Setup
- **Initial Position Details**: Begin in a standing position with your opponent facing you. Ensure you have a clear space behind you to execute the technique safely.
- **Grips and Controls Needed**: Establish a collar tie or grip on your opponent’s gi or neck with one hand. Use the other hand to control their wrist or sleeve to prevent them from easily disengaging.
## Steps
1. **Create Distance**: Begin by slightly pulling your opponent towards you using the grips. This will make them step forward, which helps in creating the necessary space for the transition.
2. **Turn and Drop**: Turn your back slightly towards your opponent and drop down by bending your knees. This motion should be quick and fluid, allowing you to drop to the ground with your back facing them.
3. **Place Hands on the Mat**: Once you drop, extend your arms and place your hands on the mat to stabilize your position. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart, similar to a bear crawl position.
4. **Kick Upwards**: With your hands firmly on the mat, kick your legs upwards and backwards towards your opponent’s upper body. Your hips should elevate as you kick, creating a dynamic movement that can disrupt your opponent’s balance.
5. **Control with Feet**: Use your feet to hook onto your opponent’s hips or shoulders. This control will prevent them from easily moving away and allow you to manipulate their posture.
6. **Transition to Guard**: From this position, you can transition into different guard positions. A common follow-up is to bring your legs down and establish a traditional guard, such as closed guard or open guard, depending on the situation and reaction of your opponent.
## Key Points
- **Important Details to Remember**: Timing and distance management are crucial. Ensure you have enough space to perform the kick safely and maintain control of your opponent throughout the movement.
- **Common Mistakes to Avoid**:
- Do not lean too far forward when placing your hands on the mat, as this can lead to losing balance.
- Avoid kicking too early or without control, as this can leave you vulnerable to counters or submissions.
- Ensure your grips are secure before initiating the movement to maintain control over your opponent.
Rate This Technique
Sign in to rate techniques
Sign In