Playing guard is only half the game. The ultimate goal is getting to top position where you can control and finish. These five sweeps will give you reliable paths from bottom to top position.
The Scissor Sweep
The first sweep most white belts learn. Simple, effective, and teaches fundamental mechanics.
How It Works
- Control one arm and opposite collar
- Place foot on hip, other leg loaded
- Pull them forward while scissoring legs
- Come to mount
When to Use
When opponent is on knees with weight forward. Best against aggressive passers.
The Flower Sweep (Pendulum)
Uses momentum and hip movement. Effective against standing opponents.
How It Works
- Control one sleeve
- Load hips by bringing knees to chest
- Swing legs like pendulum
- Use momentum to flip them
When to Use
Against standing opponents or when scissor sweep is being blocked.
The Hip Bump Sweep
No grips required. Uses explosive hip movement.
How It Works
- Post one hand behind you
- Explode hips upward and to side
- Bump opponent off balance
- Come to mount or guard
When to Use
When opponent is low with hands on mat. Great for setting up kimura too.
The Tripod Sweep
Simple but high percentage. Uses two points of contact on floor.
How It Works
- Control both sleeves or one sleeve/collar
- Place both feet on their hips
- Pull them forward while extending legs
- They fall, you come on top
When to Use
When opponent is standing tall with straight arms.
The Butterfly Sweep
From butterfly guard. Fast and powerful when done correctly.
How It Works
- Get underhooks
- Load opponent onto your thighs
- Fall to side while elevating
- Roll to mount
When to Use
When you have butterfly hooks in and underhooks. Most powerful sweep once mastered.
Drilling Your Sweeps
Progressive Resistance
Start with cooperative drilling, then add resistance as technique improves.
Chain Drilling
Practice transitioning between sweeps when one is defended:
- Scissor → Flower
- Hip bump → Kimura
- Butterfly → Back take
Common Sweep Mistakes
- Not breaking opponent is posture first
- Telegraphing the sweep
- Giving up position to attempt sweep
- Not controlling grips
- Sweeping without plan for what comes next
Bottom Line
Master these five sweeps and you can get to top position from almost any guard situation. Sweeps work best when chained together – if one fails, transition to another. The goal is not just sweeping but ending in a dominant position where you can control and submit.