How to Do the Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard in BJJ
The knee tap sweep from half guard uses the underhook combined with a hand on the opponent's far knee to topple them. By driving forward with the underhook while tapping the knee to the mat, you remove their base and finish the sweep to top position.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From half guard, secure a deep underhook and come to your knees
- 2 Reach your free hand to tap the opponent's far knee
- 3 Drive forward with your underhook shoulder into their chest
- 4 Push the far knee to the mat while driving them backward
- 5 Follow through to top side control
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Not getting a deep enough underhook first
- ⚠️ Reaching for the knee without driving forward
- ⚠️ Tapping too high on the thigh instead of the knee
- ⚠️ Not using head and shoulder pressure during the drive
- ⚠️ Releasing the half guard too early before the sweep completes
🔄 Variations
- → From dogfight
- → With collar grip
- → Knee tap to leg drag
- → Knee tap to pass
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Sprawl and whizzer
- → Base the tapped knee forward
- → Crossface before the underhook
- → Strip the underhook
Track Your Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard 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 Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard? ▼
The Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard 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 Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard 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 Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard? ▼
The Knee Tap Sweep from Half Guard is typically executed from half guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.