Balloon Sweep

Sweep
Also known as:
Overhead Sweep

The Balloon Sweep is an overhead sweep where the bottom player uses their feet on the opponent's hips to elevate and launch them overhead, landing in mount. It is most effective when the opponent drives forward with their weight, allowing the bottom player to redirect that momentum overhead using a combination of arm control and leg elevation.

Quick Reference

Key principles

  • · The sweep relies on redirecting the opponent's forward pressure overhead rather than generating force independently.
  • · Both feet must be placed firmly on the opponent's hips to create a strong platform for elevation.
  • · Grip control on both sleeves or wrists is essential to guide the opponent's trajectory and prevent them from posting.
  • · Extending the legs fully while pulling the arms creates a wheel-like motion that flips the opponent over.
  • · If the opponent resists by sitting back, transition to a hip bump sweep or armbar from closed guard to chain attacks.

Execution

  1. 1 From closed guard or De La Riva guard, secure sleeve or wrist grips on both of the opponent's arms.
  2. 2 Open your guard and place both feet on the opponent's hip creases, keeping your knees bent and loaded.
  3. 3 When the opponent drives forward or you pull them into you, simultaneously extend your legs explosively upward and overhead while pulling their arms past your head.
  4. 4 Guide the opponent over you in a smooth arc, maintaining grip control throughout the flight to prevent them from posting.
  5. 5 Follow the momentum and roll through to land in mount, immediately establishing chest-to-chest pressure and base.

Common mistakes

  • × Placing feet too low on the thighs instead of deep in the hip creases, resulting in insufficient elevation and a stalled sweep.
  • × Attempting the sweep without forward pressure from the opponent or without first pulling them in, leading to a failed lift where the opponent simply disengages.
  • × Releasing sleeve grips during the elevation phase, allowing the opponent to post a hand on the mat and block the sweep entirely.

Do it from

Positions and situations where the Balloon Sweep shows up.

Closed Guard Bottom De La Riva Guard Bottom Spider Guard Bottom

Where it lands

The position you end up in.

Mount Top