BJJ Butterfly Guard: Sweeps, Hooks & Submissions | BJJ App Wiki
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Complete butterfly guard guide for BJJ: arm drag, double underhook sweep, back take and butterfly hook entries. Best for no-gi grapplers.
Master butterfly guard sweeps, hooks, arm drags and back takes for BJJ and no-gi.
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What is Butterfly Guard?
Butterfly guard uses both feet hooked inside the opponent's thighs ('butterfly hooks') while you sit upright in front of them. It's a dynamic guard that excels for sweeping, back takes, and arm drags — especially in no-gi.
Core Butterfly Guard Techniques
| Technique | Key Entry | Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Butterfly Sweep | Underhook + hook lift | Roll opponent over the hook |
| Arm Drag | Two-on-one, pull elbow | Take the back |
| Double Underhook Sweep | Both underhooks, posture forward | Lift and roll to mount |
| X-Guard Entry | Slide under, extend both hooks | Sweep or leg attack |
| Inside Heel Hook (no-gi) | Butterfly hook → knee reap | Heel hook finish |
Butterfly Guard in Gi vs No-Gi
Butterfly guard adapts well to both. In gi, you can use sleeve/collar grips to break posture before sweeping. In no-gi, arm drags and front headlock entries are more common. Many elite no-gi grapplers use butterfly as their primary guard.
Common Mistakes
Don't lay flat — butterfly guard requires a seated, upright posture. Keep your hooks active and changing levels. Grips must connect before attempting sweeps or you'll be passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I prevent my opponent from passing my butterfly guard?
Maintaining good hip control and constant pressure is key. Use your hooks to control their base and create frames with your forearms to keep them off balance and prevent them from settling into a stable passing position.
What are the most common sweeps from butterfly guard?
The most fundamental sweeps include the 'butterfly sweep' (using your legs to lift and invert them) and the 'sickle sweep' (using one leg to sweep their supporting leg out from under them). Mastering these provides a solid foundation for more advanced variations.
How do I transition to other guards from butterfly guard?
Butterfly guard is excellent for setting up transitions. You can often use the momentum from a sweep attempt or a control point to shift into open guard, half guard, or even a leg entanglement position once you've destabilized your opponent.