What is pulling guard?

Pulling guard is a technique commonly used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling martial arts where a practitioner will sit or lay on their back to engage in a ground fight from a disadvantageous position. This technique is often utilized when the practitioner wants to take the fight to the ground and work from their back, rather than engaging in stand-up grappling.

There are various reasons why someone might choose to pull guard, such as to control their opponent's posture, create opportunities for sweeps or submissions, or to neutralize their opponent's attacks. Pulling guard can also be a strategic move to conserve energy and avoid the risk of getting taken down or struck by their opponent.

When pulling guard, it is important to have a strong understanding of sweeps, submissions, and escapes from the bottom position in order to effectively control and submit your opponent. Pulling guard can be a risky move, as it puts you in a vulnerable position, so it is crucial to be well-versed in defensive techniques and have good timing and control when executing the maneuver.