Foot Sweep Basics: Why You Have to Make Them Move First

Foot sweeps let you off-balance an opponent with timing and angles instead of strength. In this class at Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness in Hayward, our coach demonstrates a foot sweep and explains why you have to make your partner move first.

You Have to Make Them Move

The biggest lesson in this video: you can't just force the sweep. If you go straight for it, your partner steps back. You have to trick them a little and make them shift their weight first, then sweep the leg that's carrying the weight.

Key Details

• Create the angle. Angling off is what makes the sweep work on most people.
• Foot placement. Your foot should never be too high. Keep it at the right height on the hip.
• Hook a little earlier. Getting the hook in sooner tightens up the motion.
• Stay connected. If you let your partner separate, they can free their leg.

Drill It Slow

Partner up and start slow. Once the timing clicks, you'll feel exactly when your partner's weight is ready to go.

More Sweeps to Learn

Try the hip bump sweep, the spider guard sweep and the scissor sweep.

Train BJJ in Hayward

Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness is at 24249 Hesperian Blvd in Hayward, CA, next to Southland Mall, and has been teaching in Hayward for about 16 years. We're a short drive from San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley and Union City. Our adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are beginner-friendly, and we also offer kids BJJ and fitness kickboxing.

Check the class schedule or reserve your first class.