Introduction to the No Hands Pass

The no hands pass, also called a smash pass by some practitioners, is executed from half guard with cross-face control. The instructor establishes head position on the same side as the hands, creating a foundational control structure for the pass.

Preventing Hip Escape

A critical principle in half guard passing is blocking the opponent's leg from moving. Without proper leg or foot placement, the opponent can execute a hip escape to full guard, negating the top position. Some contact point must always prevent this escape route.

Establishing the Underhook

The underhook is secured beneath the opponent's arm, with the instructor's form positioned low under the opponent's body. The underhook is flared outward to prevent the opponent from rolling the passer over the arm and to neutralize the opponent's overhook.

Knee and Toe Positioning

The passing knee should be placed as close to the opponent's body as possible, with toes dug into the mat on the inside. This positioning prevents the opponent from dislodging the leg and maintains control of the bottom player's hip.

Head Placement and Drive

The passer positions the head six to eight inches above the opponent's head to create downward pressure. While maintaining the underhook, flared position, and dug-in toes, the passer drives forward aggressively to advance position.

Transitioning to Both Hooks

As the passer drives forward, the second knee threads through to the opponent's mouth, establishing both knee hooks. From this position, the passer can decide which side is safer to establish side control.

Finishing to Side Control

The passer rotates over the top with both knees in contact and elbows wide. This rotation, combined with the maintained underhook and toes dug in, drives the passer into a dominant side control position.

Half Guard: No Hands Pass

Brandon Quick

No Hand Pass to Side Control

2 min read·7 key moments·PT3M19S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the No Hands Pass
•Preventing Hip Escape
•Establishing the Underhook
•Knee and Toe Positioning

The most basic & world known Half Guard Pass

Related Techniques

Butterfly Pass Floating Pass Half Mount Pass Half Stack Pass Lemon Squeeze Pass

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about no hand pass to side control?

This video covers introduction to the no hands pass, preventing hip escape, establishing the underhook. It provides detailed instruction from Brandon Quick.

How long does it take to learn no hand pass to side control?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.