### Technique Overview The De La Riva Guard is a versatile open guard position named after Ricardo de la Riva, who pioneered its modern use in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is predominantly used when the practitioner is in the bottom position as an effective form of sweeping, controlling, or transitioning to submissions. ### Japanese Name N/A ### Position: Open Guard --- ### Step-by-Step Instructions #### Entry into the De La Riva Guard 1. **Assume an Open Guard Position:** - Begin from an open guard against a standing opponent in a combat-ready posture. 2. **Grip the Opponent's Ankle:** - With your near-side hand, securely grip the opponent's ankle. - This grip is critical as it helps to control their balance. 3. **Insert De La Riva Hook:** - Swing your leg on the same side as the ankle grip towards the outside of your opponent's leg. - "Hook" your foot around the back of their leg, such that your shin is perpendicular to their calf. This is your De La Riva hook. 4. **Control the Opponent's Far-Lapel or Sleeve:** - With your other hand, grab your opponent's far lapel for increased control, or you can opt for their sleeve. - This control limits their movement and prevents them from stripping your hook easily. 5. **Position your Non-hooking Leg:** - Your free leg can either hang close to the ground or be placed on the opponent's hip for added control and leverage. 6. **Adjust Your Hips:** - Use a shrimping motion to slightly create an angle for an optimal hook. This realignment makes it difficult for your opponent to free their leg. 7. **Maintain a Seated Posture:** - Keep your head and shoulders off the mat while maintaining an upright seated posture. - This stance allows increased mobility and responsiveness for further attacks or transitions. ### Tips - **Balance and Control:** If your opponent tries to balance themselves by shifting their weight, use this to your advantage by making slight adjustments with your hook and grips. - **Entry** should be smooth and natural, using your opponent's movement to initiate. - Avoid overcommitting to any grip or hook, maintaining fluidity to move with any opportunity presented by your opponent. ### Common Transitions - Transition into sweep variations like the "De La Riva Sweep." - Transition into submissions, such as triangles or omoplatas when the opponent defends by bearing down. ---