How to Do the Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from Guard in BJJ
The ko uchi gari sweep adapts the judo minor inner reap for use from seated or open guard. When the opponent stands in your guard, you hook the inside of their ankle with your foot and reap while pulling them off-balance with your grips. It topples them backward and lets you come up to top.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 When the opponent stands, grip their collar and sleeve
- 2 Hook the inside of their lead ankle with your foot
- 3 Pull with your grips while reaping their ankle outward
- 4 Their base is removed and they fall backward
- 5 Follow immediately to a passing or top position
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Hooking too high on the calf instead of the ankle
- ⚠️ Not pulling with grips to load weight on the reaped leg
- ⚠️ Reaping too gently without committing to the sweep
- ⚠️ Not following to top position after the sweep lands
- ⚠️ Attempting when the opponent has a wide base
🔄 Variations
- → With de la riva hook
- → Standing ko uchi gari
- → To ankle pick combo
- → No-gi with collar tie
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Widen the base
- → Step the foot back when hooked
- → Pressure forward to smash
- → Sprawl to remove the hook
Track Your Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from Guard Progress
Log every time you practice the Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from 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 Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from Guard? ▼
The Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from 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 Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from 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 Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from Guard? ▼
The Ko Uchi Gari Sweep from Guard is typically executed from open guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.