BJJ Blueprint Series : Mastering the Knee-In Guard Break

Opening the closed guard is one of the foundational challenges in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). If you’re looking for a safe, efficient, and powerful way to break the closed guard without standing up or risking sweeps, the knee-in-between method is a go-to option.

This method prioritizes leverage, structure, and positional awareness over strength—making it perfect for short-to-average height practitioners or those who want to stay grounded and safe while breaking the guard.

Why Use the Knee-In Method?

Many practitioners instinctively try to open the guard by standing or powering through with straight arms. This opens them up to sweeps, submissions, or simply burning unnecessary energy.

The knee-in-between technique offers key advantages:

• Keeps you low and stable

• Reduces exposure to submissions and sweeps

• Uses leverage instead of strength

• Works best against similarly sized or slightly smaller opponents

Step-by-Step Guide to the Technique

1. Establish Sleeve Control

• Grip both of your opponent’s sleeves firmly.

• Keep your elbows close and your head down—this prevents them from underhooking or breaking your posture.

2. Create Space Safely

• Begin pushing backward slightly using your legs.

• As you create distance, extend your arms cautiously—do not straighten them forcefully.

• This gradual motion sets up the space needed for the knee entry.

3. Insert the Knee

• As soon as you feel the distance is right, bring one knee forward and insert it between their legs, aiming under their butt.

• Drop your knee to the mat, aligning it vertically to break their guard structure.

4. Open the Guard

• With your knee firmly in place, push backward again.

• This added pressure pries open the legs, effectively breaking the guard.

When This Technique Doesn’t Work

While effective, this method is height-dependent:

• If you’re much taller than your opponent, your knee might not fit into the guard space.

• It may be harder to apply if your opponent keeps an extremely tight closed guard without giving any room.

In such cases, other techniques—like standing up or posturing into a combat base—may be more suitable.

Pro Tips

• Don’t rush to straighten your arms—elbow integrity comes first.

• Let your legs and posture create the space, not just your arms.

• The knee drop must be decisive—hesitating will cost you the leverage.

Final Thoughts

The knee-in-between method is a must-have in every grappler’s arsenal. It’s subtle, technical, and avoids common mistakes like overcommitting or using brute force. If you’re a BJJ student who values clean technique and positional safety, give this method a try in your next roll.

If you’re ready to dive into the world of authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, consider visiting The Jiu-Jitsu Foundry at 72-C, Jalan SS21/62, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, WhatsApp 011-11510501. Embrace the challenge, improve your skills, and discover how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can transform your martial arts journey!

Be good!