X Guard

X-Guard is a potent open guard-based controlling position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, known for effectively controlling opponent balance while keeping your limbs controlled. Most setups, when in use, are usually against a standing and posturing opponent. This guard starts when placing yourself underneath their center or their base area, using one leg with your shin connected against the thigh in order to pull, while your second foot is free from that initial base with the other to now provide the upward leverage. The supporting limb is hooked behind or directly beneath to assist with that upward control. When properly configured, it creates a perfect 'X' using their limb structure with that upward action that directly manipulates an opponent off of their foundation. This forces openings to be exploited for your transition into offensive or further advantageous controls and even more dominant or control-type positions. Sweeps are frequent transitions you find at these points using this style of setup, which leads into strong and controlled takedown possibilities for this control from below.