### Posture Maintenance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Posture maintenance is a fundamental aspect of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that helps practitioners defend against attacks, maintain control, and set up their own techniques. An effective posture ensures balance, control, and the ability to transition between techniques. #### Japanese Name - **Japanese Name:** N/A (No specific Japanese name associated with this fundamental concept) #### Positions for Posture Maintenance - **Position:** Closed Guard, Side Control, Mount --- ### Step-by-Step Instructions for Posture Maintenance #### Posture Maintenance In Closed Guard **1. Base and Balance:** - Begin in your opponent's closed guard sitting on your heels. - Your knees should be spread wide apart to create a stable base, keeping your back straight. **2. Hand Placement:** - Place both hands on your opponent's hip seams or on his hip bones. This prevents the opponent from easily pulling you in for an attack. Avoid placing both hands on the mat or your torso will be open for attacks like arm bars. **3. Head Positioning:** - Keep your head aligned with your spine. - Tilt your chin down slightly, as a defensive posture ensures it is harder for your opponent to attack your neck. **4. Elbow Placement:** - Ensure your elbows stay inside your opponent's thighs while maintaining tight forearms against their hips. This tactic reduces the space for the opponent to open up for attacks. **5. Stance Adjust:** - Adjust your stance continuously if your opponent tries to break your posture by pulling on your neck or trying to cross-collar choke. - Lift your hips up slightly without elevating your feet if needed to maintain strength in your base. #### Posture Maintenance In Side Control **1. Stable Foundation:** - Lower your hips and widen your base by spreading your knees. Use your toes to push into the mat for extra support. **2. Chest Connection:** - Keep your chest aligned with your opponent's chest, applying consistent pressure. **3. Control Points:** - Control your opponent's head with one arm and use the other arm under their far hip. - Ensure your far hand is blocking their hip to prevent recomposing guard. **4. Locking Position:** - Stay compact without raising your upper body. Tighten your hips for connection. **5. Pressure and Adjustments:** - Apply continuous pressure. Adjust your head and arm placements in response to the opponent's movements to maintain top control. #### Posture Maintenance In Mount **1. Weight Distribution:** - Center your body weight along the opponent's core - between their chest and hips. **2. Balance on Top:** - Widen your knees for a stable base, forearms planted. **3. Post Elbows:** - Place elbows tightly against their body and knees slightly outward. **4. Head Placement:** - Keep your head positioned forward to aid balance and in anticipation for any upward movement from the opponent. **5. React and Adjust:** - Readjust body alignment and balance as the opponent shifts beneath you. Control the opponent's head if they begin to escape. ---