Marcelo Garcia - Butterfly Sweep V.2 - BJJ Weekly #070

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the butterfly sweep technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as demonstrated by Marcelo Garcia. This move is effective for transitioning into a dominant position when your opponent attempts to counter your sweep by posting their arm. We will break down the steps to successfully execute the butterfly sweep and how to respond when your partner posts their arm.

Step 1: Establish the Butterfly Guard Position

• Begin in a seated position with your opponent in front of you.
• Place your feet on their thighs, creating a butterfly hook with your legs.
• Keep your posture upright and maintain a strong grip on your opponent’s sleeves or collar to control their upper body.

Step 2: Initiate the Butterfly Sweep

• Shift your weight slightly to one side while hooking your leg on that side under your opponent's thigh.
• Use your grip on their sleeve or collar to pull them forward and off-balance.
• As you leverage your hook, push with your feet to lift and sweep your opponent over your body.

Step 3: React to the Post

• If your opponent posts their arm on the mat to prevent the sweep, secure that posted arm by reaching over your shoulder.
• Apply pressure behind their elbow to create tension, making it harder for them to maintain their balance.

Step 4: Counter the Escape

• As your opponent tries to pull their posted arm back to escape, be prepared to adjust your position.
• Maintain control of their arm while shifting your weight to the opposite side to complete the sweep.
• Allow your hips to follow through to ensure you land in a dominant position, such as side control or mount.

Practical Tips

• Always keep your movements fluid; hesitation can allow your opponent to escape.
• Focus on connecting your grips and maintaining a strong posture to maximize your control.
• Practice the sequence repeatedly to build muscle memory for both the sweep and the counter.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t neglect keeping your feet active; inactive feet can lead to losing the sweep.
• Be aware of your opponent's reactions; anticipate their moves to counter effectively.
• Avoid leaning too far back, as this can compromise your balance and control.

Conclusion

The butterfly sweep is a powerful tool in BJJ that can lead to various positions if executed correctly. By understanding how to react when your opponent posts their arm, you can enhance your effectiveness in both offensive and defensive situations. Practice these steps regularly to improve your technique and adaptability on the mat. For further development, consider integrating other sweeps and submissions into your training to create a well-rounded game.