How to Do the Butterfly Sweep in BJJ
The butterfly sweep is the fundamental attack from butterfly guard. Using your hooks and an underhook or overhook, you elevate and off-balance your opponent to sweep them to their back.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Feet hooked inside their thighs (butterfly hooks)
- 2 Get an underhook or body lock
- 3 Head position on the side you're sweeping to
- 4 Elevate with your hook while falling to your side
- 5 Follow them over to mount or top position
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Head on wrong side
- ⚠️ Not getting underhook deep enough
- ⚠️ Trying to lift instead of falling to side
- ⚠️ Hooks not engaged
- ⚠️ Not following through
🔄 Variations
- → Arm drag butterfly sweep
- → Belt grip sweep
- → Over-under butterfly sweep
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Sprawl
- → Whizzer
- → Post and base
- → Knee cut
Track Your Butterfly Sweep Progress
Log every time you practice the Butterfly Sweep and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Butterfly Sweep? ▼
The Butterfly Sweep is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Butterfly Sweep works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Butterfly Sweep? ▼
The Butterfly Sweep is typically executed from butterfly guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.