Rubberguard is one of the most recognizable parts of the 10th Planet system. It looks complicated from the outside, but it's a logical chain of positions built to control a standing opponent from your back. Here's the roadmap for a white belt who's never seen it.
What rubberguard actually is
Rubberguard is a closed-guard variation where you use your own leg to trap your opponent's arm, breaking their posture and setting up sweeps, submissions, and back-takes. The name comes from the flexibility required — you're bringing your shin across their body, which demands hip mobility you build over time.
The mission control chain
- Broken — break their posture and secure a collar tie or wrist control.
- Jiu Claw — bring your shin across to trap the arm.
- Mission Control — lock your foot on their shoulder, grab your own ankle.
- New York — clear their hand to set up the next attack.
- The chill dog and zombie — the submission and sweep entries that follow.
Don't rush the chain
Beginners try to skip to the submission. The whole system works because each position sets up the next. Learn the control positions first; the finishes come naturally once you can hold someone in mission control.
When to use it
Rubberguard shines against an opponent who stands or postures up in your closed guard. It's not the answer to every position — if they're driving their weight into you, other parts of the system (like the lock-down from half guard) are a better fit. Knowing when to use it is half the skill.
Try it yourself
Your first beginner class is free
Monday or Wednesday at 6:30 PM. Adults & teens. Ends Oct 28.