How to Do the Deep Half Waiter Sweep in BJJ
The waiter sweep from deep half guard uses your feet to elevate the opponent's trapped leg overhead while you are underneath them. By getting very deep under the opponent and lifting their leg with your feet like a waiter carrying a tray, you sweep them over your body to land in top position.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From deep half, get completely underneath the opponent
- 2 Hook their trapped leg with both your feet on the thigh
- 3 Elevate the leg overhead like a waiter carrying a tray
- 4 Control their far arm or belt to prevent posting
- 5 Roll them over you and follow to top position
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not getting deep enough underneath the opponent
- ⚠️ Feet not properly hooked on the thigh for elevation
- ⚠️ Not controlling the far arm allowing them to post
- ⚠️ Lifting too early before being fully positioned
- ⚠️ Not following through to top after the sweep
🔄 Variations
- → Homer Simpson sweep
- → Deep half back take
- → Waiter to leg drag
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Do not let them get deep under you
- → Crossface before they enter deep half
- → Step over their body
- → Whizzer to prevent depth
Track Your Deep Half Waiter Sweep Progress
Log every time you practice the Deep Half Waiter 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 Deep Half Waiter Sweep? ▼
The Deep Half Waiter 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 Deep Half Waiter 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 Deep Half Waiter Sweep? ▼
The Deep Half Waiter Sweep is typically executed from deep half. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.