How to Do the Elevator Sweep in BJJ
The elevator sweep uses your butterfly hooks to literally elevate your opponent off the ground and sweep them. It's mechanically similar to the basic butterfly sweep with different grips.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Both feet hooked inside their thighs
- 2 Secure overhook and underhook or double unders
- 3 Load them onto your hooks
- 4 Elevate with hooks while falling to side
- 5 Follow to mount
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not loading them onto hooks
- ⚠️ Hooks too shallow
- ⚠️ Falling straight back instead of to side
- ⚠️ Poor grip control
- ⚠️ Not following through
🔄 Variations
- → Gullotine to elevator
- → Arm drag to elevator
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Base out wide
- → Sprawl
- → Disengage hooks
Track Your Elevator Sweep Progress
Log every time you practice the Elevator 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 Elevator Sweep? ▼
The Elevator 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 Elevator 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 Elevator Sweep? ▼
The Elevator 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.