Crab/Philly Shell?

**Katriona1992** · Posted On: 12/14/2011 10:14pm

Long story short: a guy came to drop-in at our gym yesterday and utilized this guard during their sparring bout to great effect:

Now, I am only used to the good old fashioned peek-a-boo style guard and have just started to experiment with the cross-arm method (which I found offered good head defense but am currently having trouble with counter punching and weight distribution- the constant leaning to avoid body shots is taking time to get used to).

Thus, I was wondering what the pros/cons of employing the crab card in relations to either the peek-a-boo or crossguard would be? Is it true that peek-a-boo is really the best guard for someone short like me?

Thank you!

**Katriona1992** · Posted On: 12/14/2011 10:15pm

Here's a better pic where the arms are further apart (and hence more unlike the cross arm variation)

**alex** · Posted On: 12/14/2011 10:51pm

step 1- be mayweather

not sure about step 2

**Azatdawn** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 1:03am

I've actually used something that somewhat resembled this successfully in sparring, BUT: it only worked against guys with little experience. I think to utilize this to a good effect against experienced opponents you need to practice this a long, long, long long time and have excellent body and head movement.

I also felt that it is more exhausting than your regular guard.

Btw, I'm also not sure if this is useful when kicking is involved. It seems to really make sure that whoever you're fighting/ sparring has excellent chances for leg kicks.

**ChenPengFi** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 2:36am

I use this all the time, although i still suck and likely forever will.
I find the low lead hand helps to fend off take-downs and that i have better luck against an opposing stance while striking.

**PointyShinyBurn** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 5:32am

What do you do about leg kicks? Just super fast with the right-hand counter?

**MMAMickey** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 5:36am

To use that guard effectively against skilled people, really you need great conditioning, reasonably fast reactions and I would suggest quite a bit of talent.

I know guys who use it well, but they also tend to coincide with the winners of our regional/national boxing tournaments.

**ChenPengFi** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 9:00am

Originally Posted by PointyShinyBurn

What do you do about leg kicks? Just super fast with the right-hand counter?

Principally try to use angles to not be there by staying outside of their lead leg, and check them if not.

**PointyShinyBurn** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 9:09am

I find if I'm turned far enough that I can protect my jaw with my shoulder I'm way too sideways to check.

**ChenPengFi** · Posted On: 12/15/2011 9:24am

You'll note i mention i try to use it from an opposing stance.
If i'm outside of their lead leg it's pretty hard for them to set up a kick without eating a straight or a kick of my own.
Their lead leg is right there for me.
If i do end up real "sideways" and in line, i'll simply stride laterally and/or pivot to create space, if that makes sense.
I like it inside because i can get an underhook easier when things inevitably go pear shaped.