Short Hook: Standard X Guard Build Up

Establishing the short hook from the X-guard involves several key steps to ensure proper alignment and control over the opponent. Begin by lifting the opponent's shin towards the crook of your elbow, rather than placing their foot on your shoulder. This helps maintain good alignment as you build your position.

1. Transition to the short hook by sliding your left foot under the opponent's lead leg, aiming to place your foot against their ribs for better contact and control.
2. Maintain a grip on the opponent's tricep and anchor to their knee with your right foot behind their knee, adjusting its position for comfort and control.
3. As you build up, extend your right leg and align your tricep with your chest and your chest with your hand on the mat, creating a strong structure that resists the opponent's pressure.
4. Perform a technical stand-up, initially rising to your knee and aligning your hips with your knee and shoulder, avoiding leaning into empty space.
5. Upon standing, immediately control the opponent's knee with your hand to prevent them from escaping, and maintain a grip on your own wrist for added control.
6. Use your body structure and positioning to move the opponent around, manipulating their balance and creating opportunities for transitions to rear body lock, backside double, or double unders.
7. When transitioning to your next offensive move, do so one hand at a time to maintain control and avoid releasing all grips simultaneously.
8. Adjust your control dynamically based on the opponent's actions, anchoring with your elbow or fingertips as needed, and expanding through the ground when they press into you.
9. After building to a knee, find the opponent's knee with your hand as soon as you lift it from the mat, and pull them back to maintain control and set up your next offensive decision.

This technique is essential for learning how to play off the short hook effectively, providing insights into maintaining proper structure and building behind your walls of defense.