### One-Leg X Guard Escape Technique **Technique Overview:** The One-Leg X Guard is a derivative of the X Guard, mainly targeting one of the opponent's legs. It can lead to sweeps and submissions by utilizing the trapped leg for leverage. This escape technique aims to neutralize the one-leg X guard positions primarily used in open guard scenarios. **### Position:** Open Guard **### Top/Bottom:** Top **### Japanese Name:** N/A ### Step-by-Step Instructions: #### Understanding the One-Leg X Guard: - In this guard, the opponent wraps one of their legs around your posted leg. - Often, one of their hands controls your opposite ankle or shin. #### Execution of the Escape: 1. **Assess Opponent's Control:** - Recognize where the opponent's grip and hook are. Their focus will be disrupting your balance using their foot hooked around the hip and their grips. 2. **Maintain Base:** - Stand with a solid base, knees slightly bent, and pressure applied downward. Ensure your weight is heavy on the caught leg to make it difficult for them to manipulate. 3. **Address Grips:** - Focus on breaking the grip they have on your ankle or shin: - Use your free hand, reach down, and forcefully push the grip off, mimicking a backward bowling ball roll. - Alternatively, use your opposite foot to step over and pry the grip away. 4. **Free the Hip Hook:** - Shift your weight onto your untrapped foot. - Trap their foot with your hips as you lift the heel of your trapped foot. - Step back with your free leg, creating a strong knee arc to effectively turn out of their hook. - With sudden momentum, explosively lift your caught leg over or "kick" it backward. 5. **Regain a Dominant Position (Optional):** - Once free, immediately attempt to find dominant grips: - Consider dropping down into their open guard for a knee cut pass or regain standing control. - Explore possibilities to take control by stepping into guard passing steps if their guard opens. ### Practical Tips: - **Balance is Key:** Always focus on keeping your balance; don't let your opponent control your upper body. - **Speed and Precision:** Practicing this escape routinely will develop the speed required to execute the technique efficiently. - **Engage Core:** When maneuvering your leg out of their hook, engage your core for auxiliary support.