## X-Pass Technique The X-Pass is a dynamic and versatile guard-passing technique primarily used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to transition from an opponent's open guard to securing a dominant position, such as side control. It's characterized by a combination of footwork and push-pull dynamics to bypass an opponent's legs effectively. ### Possible Position - **Position: Open Guard** - **Top/Bottom:** Top ### Execution Steps 1. **Initial Setup:** - **Posture:** Address your opponent's open guard from a kneeling or standing position. Ensure your weight is balanced and your posture is upright to prevent sweeps or submissions. - **Grips:** Secure a grip on your opponent's leading knee with one hand and the opposite-side collar or shoulder with the other hand. 2. **Opening the Guard:** - **Push and Pull Force:** Use the grip on their knee to push it to the ground, while simultaneously pulling the collar or shoulder backward. Your aim is to create a reaction or off-balance your opponent. 3. **Leg Movement:** - **Step Over:** With the leg closest to the pinned knee, step laterally next to your opponent's hip, maintaining pressure and control. - **Kickback:** Simultaneously, kick your opposite leg back in a semi-circular motion to clear their secondary leg. This movement not only increases distance but prevents them from using their legs as a barrier. 4. **Securing Side Control:** - **Settle into Side Control:** As you complete the leg clearance, shift your hips lower to take your opponent's side. Your body should align perpendicular to theirs. - **Control Upper Body:** Establish head control by framing under your opponent’s head and controlling their far shoulder, settling into a firm side control position. ### Tips and Variations: - **Maintain Pressure:** Consistency in pressure ensures the opponent can't recompose their guard easily. - **Utilize Hip Control:** While clearing the legs, your hips play a crucial role. Maintain control with pressure. - **Training in Both Directions:** Practice the X-Pass on both sides to adapt to opponents’ reaction effectively. ### Common Mistakes: - **Poor Grip:** Ineffective grips will fail to adequately off-balance your opponent, reducing the likelihood of success. - **Leaning Too Forward:** This leaves you vulnerable to submissions or sweeps. - **Neglected Leg Control:** Failing to kick back sufficiently can allow your opponent to re-engage their guard. The X-Pass is a fundamental yet sophisticated technique that enhances your guard-passing arsenal, potentially setting up for further attacks or positional dominance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.