How to Do the No Arm Butterfly Sweep in BJJ
The no arm butterfly sweep uses only your butterfly hooks and body movement without gripping the opponent's upper body. By using timing and momentum, you elevate with one hook while posting your hands on the mat for base. This sweep is useful when grip fighting is difficult or in no-gi situations.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From butterfly guard, time the sweep when the opponent leans forward
- 2 Post both hands on the mat behind you for base
- 3 Elevate one butterfly hook strongly while falling to the other side
- 4 Your body creates a ramp that the opponent rolls over
- 5 Follow the momentum to end up on top
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Attempting when opponent is based back and not leaning forward
- ⚠️ Not posting hands properly for the ramp effect
- ⚠️ Hook elevation too weak to roll them over
- ⚠️ Timing the elevation too early or too late
- ⚠️ Not following through to secure top position
🔄 Variations
- → With minimal grips
- → From seated guard
- → Transition to single leg X
- → Counter to guard pass
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Do not lean forward in butterfly guard
- → Base wide and low
- → Flatten them before they can elevate
- → Remove the hooks before sweeping
Track Your No Arm Butterfly Sweep Progress
Log every time you practice the No Arm 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 No Arm Butterfly Sweep? ▼
The No Arm 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 No Arm 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 No Arm Butterfly Sweep? ▼
The No Arm 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.