BJJ Half Guard Attacks: Sweeps and Submissions from Below
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 2 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Master BJJ half guard attacks: underhook system, sweeps and back take options.
Contents
Half Guard: Offense from a Defensive Position
Half guard is often entered as a defensive position, but it contains a full system of sweeps, back takes and submissions. The underhook is the dividing line between offense and defense in half guard.
The Underhook System
- Win the underhook: Hip escape to create space, then fight the arm under
- Frame on the shoulder: Keep their weight off you with the underhook
- Face-down principle: With the underhook, turn to face down — this is the "dog fight" position
Half Guard Sweeps
| Sweep | Position | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Dog Fight Sweep | Dog fight (underhook) | Drive through with shoulder, kick out back leg |
| Old School Sweep | Underhook, back to mat | Reach for far ankle, hip escape, drive through |
| Homer Simpson | Underhook, facing down | Shoot the leg out, hook the knee, elevate |
💡 Pro Tip: If you can't get the underhook, don't try to attack. Survive and recover guard. Half guard without the underhook is a losing position — focus on the underhook battle first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important position in half guard?
The underhook is the single most important element in half guard offense. With an underhook, you can take the back, execute the dog fight sweep, or work up to single leg. Without the underhook, you are stuck on defense.
What are the best sweeps from half guard?
The dog fight sweep (use underhook to force the scramble, sweep them backward), the old school sweep (underhook, hip escape, drive through), and the lockdown sweep are the most effective half guard sweeps.
How do I take the back from half guard?
With the underhook secured, hip escape to create space, reach for their far knee or hip, and walk your body to their back side. Insert the seatbelt and transition to full back control.