Introduction & Accessibility
The instructor, at 64 years old, demonstrates that the Rat Guard is accessible to grapplers of all ages and fitness levels. This unconventional guard sequence proves effective across multiple disciplines including sport BJJ, MMA, and self-defense applications.
Problem Position & Guard Limitations
When trapped in bottom close guard against opponents who are difficult to sweep or submit, the Rat Guard offers an alternative attacking sequence. The instructor identifies this as a strategic solution when traditional close guard techniques prove ineffective.
Defensive Positioning for the Top Player
The top player must avoid three critical mistakes: keeping hands flat on the mat (vulnerable to Kimura), positioning elbows high from the waist (vulnerable to armbar), and allowing the bottom player to wrap one leg over the shoulder and one under the arm (triangle setup). Understanding these vulnerabilities informs proper Rat Guard defense.
Initial Setup & Shoulder Control
From bottom close guard, the bottom player pulls the opponent down and swims to a perpendicular position with their shoulder wedged into the opponent's neck while posting on their elbow. The bottom player then reaches behind the opponent's head and grabs the inside of their own leg, re-establishing closed guard while maintaining pressure.
Head Control & Arm Trap
The bottom player drives the opponent's head downward using their shoulder, breaking their posture and obscuring their vision. By controlling the target arm and maintaining tight closed guard, the bottom player prevents the opponent from striking or escaping.
Primary Submission: Triangle Choke
Once the arm is hooked and controlled, the bottom player executes a triangle choke by bringing the free leg over the opponent's shoulder and adjusting the angle for maximum pressure. The setup mirrors standard triangle mechanics from closed guard position.
Alternative Submissions: Armbar & Wristlock
If the triangle attempt fails, the bottom player can transition to an armbar by hip-escaping and rotating. Should the armbar prove unsuccessful, a wristlock—particularly the Marianinha—provides an additional finishing option.
Secondary Sweep: Head Pressure & Arm Threading
When the top player postures up on their arm, the bottom player comes up on their elbow while maintaining head pressure, threads their arm through the opponent's arm, clasps their hands, and executes a sweep. This creates a dominant mount position with significant neck crank pressure.
Practical Applications & Conclusion
The Rat Guard's effectiveness extends from sport competition to street self-defense, where the controlling position allows for striking options once the opponent is subdued. The technique exemplifies how positional control and pressure can overcome size and strength advantages.
BJJ over 60 years old. Rat Guard Basic
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction & Accessibility
- •Problem Position & Guard Limitations
- •Defensive Positioning for the Top Player
- •Initial Setup & Shoulder Control
Having had a few back surgeries, double knee replacements ,and being 64 years old, I am always searching for ways to adapt to the physical limitations of age and injuries. I learned this technique from watching Rene Dreifuss. You can find his channel on YouTube for some helpful techniques and additional subs from rat guard.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about rat guard?
This video covers introduction & accessibility, problem position & guard limitations, defensive positioning for the top player. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ For Over 60 Years Old.
How long does it take to learn rat guard?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing rat guard?
When the top player postures up on their arm, the bottom player comes up on their elbow while maintaining head pressure, threads their arm through the opponent's arm, clasps their hands, and executes a sweep. This creates a dominant mount position with significant neck crank pressure.
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