The 2026 IBJJF Master World Championships are just around the corner, and competitors from around the world are putting the finishing touches on their games before stepping onto the mats in Las Vegas.
If there's one position that has become synonymous with veteran grapplers, it's half guard. As athletes get older, efficiency becomes more important than explosiveness. A well-developed half guard allows you to slow the pace, control the exchange, and launch attacks without relying on speed or athleticism. It's no surprise that some of the greatest Masters competitors have built entire games around the position.
Whether you're preparing for Master Worlds or simply looking to sharpen one of jiu-jitsu's most effective positions, these four FloGrappling technique videos are a great place to start.
Lucas Leite's Half Guard Fundamentals
Few people have influenced the modern half guard more than Lucas Leite. His signature "Leite Half Guard" has become one of the most studied systems in jiu-jitsu, and in this 20-minute instructional he breaks down the key details that made his game so effective. If you're looking to build a rock-solid foundation, there's no better teacher to learn from than the man who helped popularize the position.
Marcello Mafra's Half Guard Sweep To Kneebar
Multiple-time IBJJF Master World Champion Marcello Mafra demonstrates one of his favorite sequences from half guard, combining a technical sweep with an immediate transition into a kneebar. It's a perfect example of how experienced competitors turn solid positional fundamentals into dangerous submission attacks without wasting movement.
Gabriel Arges' Lapel Half Guard Attacks
Once you've mastered the basics, Gabriel Arges shows how to add another layer to your half guard game. The IBJJF World Champion utilizes the lapel to create control, disrupt his opponent's base, and open up sweeping and attacking opportunities. It's a more advanced approach that can catch even seasoned competitors by surprise.
Reda Mebtouche's Easy Half Guard Fixes
Sometimes the smallest adjustments make the biggest difference. In this quick instructional, Reda Mebtouche covers common mistakes and simple fixes that can immediately improve your half guard. Whether you're struggling to establish the position or looking to make your existing game more effective, these practical tips are easy to implement right away.
Get Ready For Master Worlds
Master Worlds is one of the biggest tournaments of the year, and success often comes down to having a dependable game you can trust under pressure. Half guard has stood the test of time because it works at every level of competition, especially for experienced athletes looking to maximize efficiency and minimize mistakes.
Study these four techniques, spend some time drilling them before September, and you may find your half guard becoming one of your greatest weapons at the 2026 IBJJF Master World Championships.