Alias · Guard
Offensive half guard
Also known as Underhook Half Guard (Bottom) — the canonical term used on this site.
Training background: descriptive — contrasts with crossface half guard
Descriptive — offensive half-guard with underhook
Offensive half guard is the descriptive name for the underhook half guard — flagging the tactical role of the underhook variant as an attacking platform rather than a defensive holding position.
Etymology. “Offensive” specifies the tactical intent (sweeping and back-taking rather than holding); “half guard” attaches the position-family. The compound predominates in coaching vocabulary that distinguishes the underhook variant’s attack-orientation from defensive half-guard play.
Mechanics. The underhook provides the upper-body connection needed to generate sweep or back-take force — without the underhook, half guard becomes primarily a holding position rather than an attacking platform.
Cross-reference. “Near-side underhook” is the alternate name. Full mechanical coverage on Underhook Half Guard.