I just returned from a week long trip to LA.  I had the pleasure of meeting up with Shawn Williams for a night to train.  If you don’t know Shawn, he is one of the nicest guys in the sport and no doubt one of the most technical.  A Renzo Gracie black belt for some time, he shared with me the secrets of the “Williams Guard”.  It’s a modified Rubber Guard that doesn’t require the same level of flexibility.  Personally I love new concepts like this and it works equally well gi and no-gi.

If you are ever in the area, do yourself a favor and look him up for privates or a group class.