### Lumberjack Sweep in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu The Lumberjack Sweep, also known as the "Balloon Sweep," is a classic technique primarily executed from the **Closed Guard** position. It's an effective move designed to off-balance an opponent when they attempt to pass your guard from a standing position. **Step-by-Step Instructions** 1. **Establish Closed Guard** - Begin with your legs securely wrapped around your opponent's waist in the closed guard position. Clasp your hands around the back of their neck or grip their gi closely, effectively breaking down their posture. 2. **Control Their Sleeves or Lapels** - Secure a strong grip on both of your opponent's sleeves, pulling their arms forward. This grip assists in nullifying their ability to establish posture by standing straight. 3. **Open Your Guard & Establish Foot Position** - Carefully unlock your guard, sliding both feet downward while maintaining a firm grip on your opponent's sleeves. - Bring your feet to the inside of their knees or thighs, placing the soles of your feet against their inner legs. This footing is crucial to execute the sweep. 4. **Create Off-Balancing Action** - Push both of your opponent's arms upward slightly, while at the same time, utilizing your legs to push their thighs backward, disrupting their balance. 5. **Execute the Sweep** - As the opponent starts to lose balance and their body begins to tilt backward, swiftly elevate your hips by lifting them with both of your legs. - At this point, extend your legs outward sharply while keeping the grips steady, rolling your opponent backward over your body. 6. **Transition to Mount** - Use the momentum created by the sweep to follow your opponent’s movement and immediately establish the mount position. - Make sure to maintain control by keeping your knees wide in the mount, enhancing stability and dominance. 7. **Stay Engaged and Secure Position** - Once settled into the mount, adjust grips, possibly moving to a higher mount or seeking submission opportunities. ### Tips for Success - Timing and coordination between using your legs and hands are crucial to executing this sweep effectively. - The strategic off-balancing using your legs makes the transition to mount smoother. ### Conclusion The Lumberjack Sweep is a versatile tool to surprise and unbalance an opponent who is intent on breaking your guard. With practice, this maneuver becomes an invaluable part of your arsenal from the closed guard position.