Pendulum Sweep

Full Guard Sweep: Pendulum-Style from Bottom

This is a core jiujitsu moves technique from the full guard, and a staple bjj technique. It uses a pendulum motion of the legs to off-balance the opponent and roll them over their center of gravity.

Key Steps

Setup and grips

• In Gi or No‑Gi, secure control of the opponent's near arm (wrist or sleeve) and establish a frame with your forearm against their neck/shoulder.
• Put your knee shield on the far hip and keep the other foot grounded to create space and posture.

Pendulum motion and sweep

• Sit up slightly, pull the trapped arm toward you, and pivot your hips away.
• Swing the loaded leg in a wide arc under their center, using a pendulum motion to unbalance them.
• As they roll, continue to control the far arm and drive your hips to finish on top.

Finish and top control

• Establish a stable top position (side control or mount) and prevent a quick guard recovery with your frames.

Application

• From full guard, this move creates a pathway to top control; usable in Gi or No‑Gi as part of bjj techniques and jiu jitsu moves. Use when your opponent over-commits to pressure or to create angle during a pass attempt. Beginner-friendly with slow, cooperative drilling.

Mistakes

• Losing control of the trapped arm or failing to posture.
• Not maintaining frames, allowing the guard to re-guard or pass.
• Rushing the swing or turning the hips without proper balance.

Tips

• Keep your head over your hips, breathe, and drill step-by-step with a partner before adding resistance. Focus on timing the pendulum arc and finishing in a stable top position.