Student Objectives:
The student will open the Closed Guard using the Log Splitter technique while practicing with a compliant partner.
The student will pair the Log Splitter technique with the Knee Cut Pass after successfully opening the legs.
The student will identify the Log Splitter as a functional use of the Combat Base position.
Teaching Cues:
Standard Grips
Hip Slam and Stand
Knee to tailbone
Combat Base
Knee Cut
Lesson: Log Splitter
The practicing student will start on their knees in the Laces Down position with the assisting student’s wrapped around the waist in the Closed Guard position. The practicing student should have their hands in the Standard Grips position with good posture. The assisting partner can have their hands in the Home Alone position or another neutral position.
The practicing student will enter the standing position by giving a confident and technical Hip Slam and then standing with their outside leg as well. When entering into the Standing position the practicing student should reinforce their balance/base with the lapel grip as future opponent’s will use this time to try and set up effective Open Guards. Not only does the lapel help prevent being knocked backwards, but it also allows the practicing student the ability to pull with their hand and push with their hips to keep a close contact with the assisting student.
Once in the standing position the knee on the same side as the lapel grip will be repositioned directly behind the tailbone. This placement is important as the foot needs to be placed directly under the knee to get the correct base and stability for the knee to slide in between the practicing students hips and the assisting student’s Closed Guard. If done incorrectly there will be an opportunity for the assisting student to off balance the practicing student or make space to set up the De la Riva Hook.
As the knee is repositioned at the tailbone, the lapel will be released and a new grip will be taken at the pants on the other side of the hip (both hips will be controlled at this point). The practicing student should create a pressure forward with their arms and backwards with their hips (similar to the Gorilla Stiff Arms lesson) as they lower their body back to the floor. This transition from standing to the Combat base position should be performed slowly and by putting the back leg’s knee on the floor. This change in levels, combined with the knee placement and pressure of the arms should allow the knee to slide directly into the tailbone and pelvic region.
In many cases this will open the Closed Guard. While there are some people that can keep their ankles crossed, instruct the assisting student to open their legs at this point as it will be more beneficial for them to set up a guard and have the ability to bridge/shrimp than keeping their legs locked around a Combat Base.
Once the legs are open the practicing student should execute a Knee Cut pass by thrusting their hips forward and their shoulders back and ending in a good Side Control Position.
Possible Extensions:
The Tripod pass also fits well with the Log Splitter and can be used as a variation of the Knee Cut.
The Back Step is also a really great option but difficult for many children to manage the space of the knees.
Combat Base is a really easy place for Children to learn how to set up, and execute sweeps from De la Riva. Grips will be important for the viability of the sweeps from De la Riva and if this is the extension you use make sure you have a conversation about where their hands should go to create an effective Open Guard.
Alter the entry into this movement by having the practicing student place both hands on the biceps in the Closed Guard. Then, while framing/posting on those arms with forward pressure the practicing student can push off their toes and walk themselves into the standing position. Once in the standing position (with broken posture) the practicing student should transfer both hands to the pants while simultaneously repositioning their knee to the tailbone. If using this variation, make sure the practicing student understands they will be susceptible to the Double Ankle Hook Sweep and they should monitor the spacing of their ankles.
Possible Refinements:
When standing with Standard grips it is common for children to bring their feet to close together and expose themselves to being Double Ankle Hook swept. It’s important that students understand this is a common thing while performing the Log Splitter and should try to avoid it by having good foot placement. Even with the correct placement, while being off balanced these grips can occur. Make sure the student knows how to Kick Out of the ankle control.
The Hip Slam should be an essential part of moving into the standing position when standing with Standard Grips. Make sure the students are throwing their shoulders back while thrusting their hips forward. This will create a very powerful movement into the standing position. Once getting to the standing position it will be important to immediately reposition the knee into the space of the tailbone.
Once the tip of the knee is inside of the Guard, future opponents will attempt to maintain their guard by making grips and lifting their hips above the knee. This can be prevented by the practicing student by laying both forearms along the inside of the thighs and pushing down. Make sure the practicing student is pushing with their complete forearm and not just their elbow. If done correctly, without moving the hands, it should create a very powerful barrier and force the hips, and legs, down onto the Log Splitter.
Reference materials:
Teaching Reflections:
How did I do teaching?
What could I do better next time?
Did the student gain proficiency in lesson material?