The headquarters position is a game-changer in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, serving as a strong foundation for guard-passing strategies. By effectively utilizing this position, you can neutralize your opponent’s guard and set up dominant positions. Two highly effective passes from the headquarters position are the folding pass and the knee cut pass. Let’s break them down in detail.
What is the Headquarters Position?
The headquarters position is a transitional stance used when facing an opponent in open guard. By positioning yourself over one of their legs and trapping it between yours, you limit their mobility and ability to execute guard attacks. This position is effective against a wide range of guards, such as De La Riva and Spider guard, as it reduces the threat of sweeps, submissions, and transitions.
The headquarters position is all about control. Once established, it allows you to dictate the engagement, making it easier to apply pressure and execute passes like the folding pass or knee cut.
Folding Pass
The folding pass relies on pressure to collapse your opponent’s posture, making it difficult for them to defend effectively. It’s especially useful against opponents with flexible or reactive guards.
How to Execute the Folding Pass:
- Set the Foundation:
Start in the headquarters position, with your opponent’s leg trapped between yours. Secure control by gripping their collar and pants. - Collapse the Guard:
Lean forward, driving your chest into their legs to fold their knees toward their chest. Use your weight to keep them compressed and prevent them from framing or escaping. - Clear the Legs:
Once their movement is restricted, step your leg around their hips while keeping pressure on their upper body. - Secure Side Control:
Transition into side control, maintaining tight control to prevent counterattacks.
The folding pass is straightforward yet effective, especially for shutting down opponents who rely on mobility in their guard play.
Knee Cut Pass
The knee cut pass is a dynamic option that slices through your opponent’s guard with precision. This pass is adaptable and works well against opponents who try to frame or regain guard.
How to Execute the Knee Cut Pass:
- Establish Control:
From the headquarters position, secure an underhook on the far side and control their collar or sleeve. - Position Your Knee:
Place your lead knee across their thigh, ensuring your shin aligns diagonally. Your trailing leg should provide balance and stability. - Cut Through the Guard:
Drive your knee across their body, sliding it toward the mat while maintaining control of their upper body. - Complete the Pass:
As your knee cuts through, settle into side control while staying heavy to prevent counters.
The knee cut pass is a versatile tool that can be adapted mid-flow, making it a go-to option for many grapplers.
Why the Headquarters Position is Essential
The headquarters position is more than just a starting point—it’s a control hub that gives you the ability to adjust and react to your opponent’s movements. By mastering this position and its associated passes, you’ll develop a more well-rounded guard-passing game.
Key benefits include:
- Neutralizing Guard Threats: Shut down complex guards like De La Riva and Spider guard.
- Applying Pressure: Use weight and positioning to wear down your opponent.
- Versatility: Transition into a variety of guard-passing options.
Refining Your Game
Mastering the headquarters position, folding pass, and knee cut pass requires consistent practice. Focus on the details: grips, weight distribution, and timing are crucial for success. These techniques will give you a reliable framework to deal with any guard player and help you establish dominance during rolls or competitions.
So hit the mats, drill these passes, and watch your BJJ game reach new heights. See you on the mats! 🥋