Open guard sweeps: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guide

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Open guard · 10 minute lesson Pro

Tripod and sickle-type sweeps that take a standing passer to the mat.

Watch it on YouTubeSearch: Bjj tripod sweep open guard tutorial. Videos by other coaches.

A sweep needs three things: a grip, an off-balance and a finish. Against a standing opponent you hold the sleeve, kick the opposite ankle and push on the hip so that they trip over.

The tripod sweep is the classic: one foot on the hip, one hooking the far ankle, both hands holding the sleeve and ankle. It works because they cannot post both feet at once.

Key points

Feet on their hips or biceps to keep them from closing the distance.
One hand on the sleeve, the other on the ankle or heel.
The sweeping leg hooks behind the ankle, the other pushes the hip.
Pull the ankle towards you while you push the hip away.
Come up as they fall and secure the top.

Common mistakes and how to fix them

Pushing only. Combine the push with the ankle hook. One without the other lets them step.
Lying flat after the sweep. Sit up immediately. If you lie flat they recover.
Letting go of the sleeve. Keep it until the sweep is complete.

The rest is in the app

The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Open guard module of Jiu-jitsu foundations.

Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.

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Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.