Introduction to the Cartwheel Guard Pass
The instructor introduces the cartwheel guard pass and emphasizes teaching the underlying principles rather than just the basic mechanics. This approach allows the technique to work effectively in more realistic sparring situations.
The Problem with Passive Demonstration
The instructor critiques common teaching methods where the defender remains static and unresponsive. When the defender has no momentum or directional commitment, they can easily follow the attacker's movement and recover guard.
Setting Up the Pass with Positioning
Rather than executing the cartwheel immediately, the instructor places the defender on their back to force them to react. This creates two scenarios: either the defender remains passive and gets passed, or they begin to sit up and recover guard.
Timing the Cartwheel on the Sit-Up
The key to the pass is timing the cartwheel as the defender begins to sit up and shift their weight forward. Once the defender commits to the forward movement, they cannot quickly reverse direction, making the cartwheel pass much more effective.
The Head Placement and North-South Position
Upon completing the cartwheel, the instructor immediately drives their head into the gap between the defender's thighs and ribcage to maintain control. The head and shoulder positioning prevents the defender from recovering guard during the transition to north-south position.
Maintaining Control in North-South
In the final north-south position, the instructor maintains a balanced posture—neither leaning too far over nor sitting too high. This position allows the instructor to control the defender's movement and prevent escape attempts.
CARTWHEEL GUARD PASS MADE EASY
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Cartwheel Guard Pass
- •The Problem with Passive Demonstration
- •Setting Up the Pass with Positioning
- •Timing the Cartwheel on the Sit-Up
Think Gymnastics is only for small people? Witness all 6'4" and 220lbs of Black Belt, David Morcegao soaring through the air during this cartwheel guard pass. Including the details of the all too important setup that most instructionals miss out. ~Support the Channel by Liking, Commenting on, and Sharing the videos. If you feel like it you can even Pledge to Help on Patreon or Shop via the Amazon links below: PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblejiujitsu AMAZON LINKS: USA: https://amzn.to/2uuKxAG UK: https://amzn.to/2pT4qg7 BUY MY GI: https://www.invertedgear.com/ USA: https://amzn.to/2utdX22 READ ABOUT THE GLOBETROTTERS HERE: USA: https://amzn.to/2I9Cuev UK & EUROPE: https://amzn.to/2pOLQVr FILMED ON: THE SWEET 4K CAMERA I USE: USA: https://amzn.to/2GXokOg UK: https://amzn.to/2GxmlT5 THE TINY CAMERA I USE: USA: https://amzn.to/2I9qI3J UK & EUROPE: https://amzn.to/2pRauVh MICROPHONE: USA: https://amzn.to/2IYsypr UK & EUROPE: https://amzn.to/2GSVQVG White balance card: USA: https://amzn.to/2Idm8BH UK & EUROPE: https://amzn.to/2pQ7it0 Intro music by Eric Taylor Official website:: http://erictaylorproductions.tk/ Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed) FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA: www.facebook.com/invisiblejiujitsu/ www.twitter.com/invisibleBJJ www.instagram.com/invisible_jiu_jitsu MY ACADEMY: www.invisiblejiujitsu.co.uk Sponsored by: https://www.invertedgear.com https://invertedgeareu.com/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about cartwheel pass?
This video covers introduction to the cartwheel guard pass, the problem with passive demonstration, setting up the pass with positioning. It provides detailed instruction from Invisible Jiu Jitsu.
How long does it take to learn cartwheel pass?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing cartwheel pass?
Upon completing the cartwheel, the instructor immediately drives their head into the gap between the defender's thighs and ribcage to maintain control. The head and shoulder positioning prevents the defender from recovering guard during the transition to north-south position.




