The hip bump sweep is one of the first sweeps you learn in Jiu-Jitsu. I got a chance to revisit it and pay attention to the little details that help me refine the technique and apply them to future rolls.

Hip Bump Sweep

The hip bump sweep is used in closed guard. You want to sweep them by using your hip to “bump” them, sweeping them over and ending up in mount. To perform a successful hip bump, you need to pay attention to their base, momentum, and force applied. The sweep must be decisive and explosive. The hip bump sweep is best used when they are postured upright in your closed guard. Start by breaking down their posture; this will make them fight your hands and bring their posture up. Next, bring their hands to the mat by circling your hand inside and opening their hand outward. Once both their hands touch the mat, quickly release your closed guard, bridge your hip up to perform the hip bump sweep. Remember to kill the hand base on the side you’re doing the sweep by bringing your cross-hand to hold and block their bicep or tricep, so they cannot post that hand further to counter your hip bump sweep.

Defense from Turtle

Remember to turn your back outward, away from them, so you can face them. Either create space or establish a frame; the key is to bring your far-side shoulder to the mat. In case they are fully on your body and have your weight on you, you can tripod up so they fall forward.

Bonus: Omoplata Threat from Bottom Closed Guard

What would you do in the bottom closed guard position if your partner is holding onto you with a grip on your back? Threaten the omoplata: open the closed guard, bring your leg over, grab that foot, and place it on their face, pushing them away. From there, you can continue the omoplata, try other submissions, or transition.