Grip and Stance Setup
The tripod sweep begins with the defender establishing control from bottom position while the opponent has a lead leg extended. The defender cups the opponent's ankle with the far-side hand while switching stance, positioning their foot on the opponent's thigh to establish the foundational tripod base.
Breaking the Grip and Establishing Control
The defender sets a cross grip and breaks the opponent's pant control by pulling and kicking the leg out wide, then replaces the foot. Maintaining this position requires constant control of the ankle grip and hip placement to prevent the opponent from escaping.
Execution of the Sweep
When ready, the defender applies a light push to destabilize the opponent's base, then hooks the knee while extending both legs to roll the opponent backward. The sweep relies on maintaining tension throughout the movement rather than rushing the technique.
Technical Standup and Position Control
After sweeping the opponent over, the defender posts a foot on the floor and comes up on an elbow before tucking the foot to establish a strong base. The defender uses the opponent's hip or thigh to aid the standup while keeping the space closed to prevent the opponent from inserting hooks.
Maintaining Control During the Sweep
The defender uses knuckle pressure against their own thigh to control the opponent's posture, keeping their head off the mat and maintaining a tight grip on the ankle. This control method allows the defender to relax their grip while still maintaining dominant positioning.
Finishing the Sweep and Pass Setup
The defender tensions the position by flaring the knee against the opponent's leg, drops to the calf, and sits the opponent to their buttocks. After posting the foot and technically getting up off the elbow, the defender closes the space to prevent hook insertion before beginning passing sequences.
Alternative Grip Variation
In the secondary angle demonstration, the defender controls the leg at the hip and takes a grip on the sleeve before breaking free and positioning knuckles into the thigh. The extension and pull motion allows the defender to get behind the opponent's leg before bringing them to the floor.
Tripod Sweep by Travis Stevens
Key Takeaways
- •Grip and Stance Setup
- •Breaking the Grip and Establishing Control
- •Execution of the Sweep
- •Technical Standup and Position Control
TRIPOD SWEEP https://www.bjjfanatics.com This video explains how to do a Tripod Sweep. Travis Stevens is an Olympic Silver Medalist Judoka and a Black Belt in BJJ from John Danaher. He is one of the most successful American grapplers in history. This is an excerpt from his newest release, BJJ Basics available exclusively from BJJFanatics.com. BJJ Fanatics was started by a pair of black belts (Bernardo Faria & Michael Zenga) who feel that nothing is more important than improving your BJJ skills as much as possible in the least amount of time. Their aim was to create a shop for BJJ Students who don’t look at BJJ as a sport – but as a lifestyle. 15% OFF On All Of Our BJJ Instructional Videos - Just Use The Coupon Code: FANATICSYOUTUBE Website: https://www.bjjfanatics.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAqme-CE-yLm01BV5nUjPPA Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/733553463659020/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjj.fanatics/?hl=enTRIPOD SWEEP
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about tripod sweep?
This video covers grip and stance setup, breaking the grip and establishing control, execution of the sweep. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Fanatics.
How long does it take to learn tripod sweep?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing tripod sweep?
The defender tensions the position by flaring the knee against the opponent's leg, drops to the calf, and sits the opponent to their buttocks. After posting the foot and technically getting up off the elbow, the defender closes the space to prevent hook insertion before beginning passing sequences.
