Skip to main content
HomeCLA Grappling Framework v1.2
← All phases
03

Guard Retention

Preventing the pass, recovering position, and managing distance from the bottom.

What this phase means

Guard retention is about defending the line between you and a pass. It is frames, hips, angles, and the willingness to give up small space to keep the big one.

What to recognize

  • +Which side they are trying to pass to
  • +Whether your hips are square or off-angle
  • +When a frame is being collapsed
  • +The early lean before they cut
  • +When you have time to attack vs. survive

Beginner mistake

Lying flat on the back and waiting — no frames, no hip movement, no inside connections.

Intermediate mistake

Retaining without threatening — recovering guard cleanly but never converting recovery into a sweep, attack, or angle.

+ 5 more games in this phase, sign in to view.

Common problems in this phase

+ 39 more problems in this phase, sign in to view.

44 more items locked

Free preview shows 3 games and 3 problems per phase. Sign in to unlock everything, browse all games, read full problem details, and save favorites.