Ashi Waza in the world of judo translates as foot or leg techniques, where the action of the leg is primary in completing the throw. This includes all foot sweeps and trips, as well as reaping or hooking the leg of your opponent.
Last night in class here at Waco Judo we worked on a foot sweep called De Ashi Barai, which literally translates as “advancing foot sweep” and is commonly known in English as the outside foot sweep. When you hit it clean, the uke (person being thrown) goes flying and it feels effortless. Developing the timing and skill to hit it perfectly takes a lot of work, but anyone can learn the basics in a few class sessions. Click here to reserve a free trial class for you or your child!
The video above shows competition highlights of some amazing Ashi Waza, including De Ashi Barai, as well as similar throws like Okuri Ashi Barai and Harai Tsurikomi Ashi. If you’re a beginner or even an advanced hobbyist, don’t compare yourself to these professionals! It takes a lot of blood sweat and tears to get to that level. BUT with diligent practice, good grips and set ups, you too will one day hit the PERFECT FOOT SWEEP in randori or competition, and when that day comes, you will be on top of the world. It’s an amazing feeling to send someone flying and see them land safely on their back right at your feet.
Ashi Waza can be further broken down in to these sub-categories:
- Foot sweeps. For these types of throws, the weight must be off the leg you’re attacking and in motion. This allows you to literally sweep them off their feet. Examples include De Ashi Barai, Harai Tsurikomi Ashi, and Okuri Ashi Barai.
- Trips or blocks. The foot you’re attacking can be planted or floating, and you’re using your foot to make them trip over you. Examples would be Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi and Hiza Guruma.
- Reaps. In these throws, the weight is planted on the foot you’re attacking, and you make a chopping or reaping motion with your own leg to throw your opponent down. Examples include O Soto Gari, O Uchi Gari, Ko Soto Gari and others. Hint: the word “gari” means to reap.