Skip to main content

Hip Bump Sweep

Quick Introduction​

The hip bump sweep is one of the most natural sweeps in BJJ. Sit up into your opponent, force them to base out with a hand, then bump your hips over that posted arm. Famous for its seamless combination with the armbar — if they don't post, you get the submission instead.

Position Overview​

From: Closed Guard | Leads to: Mount, or Armbar if they don't post

Classic Hip Bump​

  1. From closed guard, sit up explosively — chest must contact their chest
  2. Wrap one arm deep under their armpit (underhook), grip their back or lat
  3. Post opposite hand on mat behind you, fingers pointing away, arm locked out
  4. They feel the pressure and post their hand on the mat (underhook side)
  5. The moment they commit weight to that post: bump hips up and diagonally toward their posted arm
  6. Their posted arm collapses; follow through and roll to mount
  7. Keep underhook tight throughout the reversal

Key detail: This is a reaction-based sweep. You create the pressure; they create their own vulnerability by posting. Patience is everything.

The Hip Bump / Armbar Dilemma​

This is why the hip bump is so fundamental — it's a true win-win:

  • They post → Hip bump sweep to mount
  • They don't post → Cup their tricep with your free hand, fall back to armbar

They must choose which attack to give you.

Core Principles​

  1. Close all distance first — half-sitting creates no pressure; they won't post
  2. Wait for the post — sweeping before they commit = pushing against a solid base
  3. Diagonal hip bump — straight up doesn't sweep; drive toward their posted arm
  4. Explosive burst — power comes from hips and core, not a slow push
  5. Always have Plan B — no post means armbar; this dilemma makes the technique work

Common Mistakes​

MistakeFix
Not sitting up fullyExplosive sit-up; shoulder should touch their chest
Sweeping before they postWait until hand touches mat and weight commits
Weak posted handLock arm out, fingers turned away, post close to hip
Bumping straight upDrive diagonally toward their posted arm side
Forgetting the armbar optionIf they don't post, immediately transition to armbar

Next Steps​

  1. Armbar - Must learn together; the other half of the dilemma
  2. Scissor Sweep - Chain when they stay heavy and won't let you sit up
  3. Guillotine - Available when they drop their head defending the bump