Shin Grip Guard Pass Setup

The passer establishes bilateral grips on the defender's shins and steps between the legs while opening the hips. This movement transitions the passer into a seated position across the defender's torso.

Countering Frame Defense

When the defender frames on the passer's chest, the passer posts one hand on the mat on the same side as the outside leg. The passer then drives weight forward while pulling the posting hand inward to access the neck.

Backstep and Neck Control Transition

As the passer dives toward the neck, a backstep movement carries the passer to the defender's side. The passer connects both hands on the neck, places the forehead on the mat, and establishes a front neck lock with thumb control.

Nickel Position Entry

The passer opens the legs and places the shin behind the defender's leg to establish the nickel position. This configuration can create blocking resistance from the defender's knee.

Knee Pressure and Backstep Escape

The passer applies downward pressure on the defender's knee, posts the hand on the mat, and executes a backstep while grabbing the head to create forward pressure. This facilitates leg extraction from the blocked position.

Inside Arm Control and Head Lock

The passer moves inside the defender's framing arm and secures head control, then places the opposite leg behind the defender's neck. Coordinated hand and leg pressure drives the defender to the mat.

Naked Choke Establishment

After driving the defender lateral, the passer establishes the first hook and executes a second hook while maintaining neck control. The passer achieves a rear-naked choke position.

Saddle Defense and Back Take

When the defender attempts a saddle hook entry by shooting the leg inward, the passer rolls into the defender's hip to execute a back take. The passer secures the shoulder, applies a shrimp escape, and achieves a single-arm seatbelt control.

Inversion Counter Escape

As the defender inverts to complete the saddle position, the passer rolls toward the defender's buttocks while pinching the legs together. The passer applies shoulder pressure, executes another shrimp, and achieves a double-hook back control.

3 No-Gi Guard Passes That Work at All Levels

Gold BJJ

Guard Top

2 min read·9 key moments·PT4M16S video

Key Takeaways

•Shin Grip Guard Pass Setup
•Countering Frame Defense
•Backstep and Neck Control Transition
•Nickel Position Entry

Black belt athlete and competitor Juan Carlos Lopez shows a few of his favorite No-Gi guard passing techniques. Follow Juan Carlos on Instagram @juankidbjj

Related Techniques

Guard Pass Guard Mount Side Control Back Position

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about guard top?

This video covers shin grip guard pass setup, countering frame defense, backstep and neck control transition. It provides detailed instruction from Gold BJJ.

How long does it take to learn guard top?

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.