Okuri Ashi Harai – Sliding Foot Sweep

Okuri ashi harai is one of the original 40 throws of Judo as developed by Kano Jigoro. It belongs to the second group of the traditional throwing list in the Gokyo no waza of the Kodokan Judo. It is also part of the current 67 Throws of Kodokan Judo. Okuri ashi harai is classified as a foot technique.

Okuri Ashi Harai – Sliding Foot Sweep Footwork

Okuri Ashi Harai KUZUSHI

NOTE: This throw is generally – but not exclusively – done while Uke and Tori are moving in tsugi ashi.

From migi shizentai, if Uke moves to his hidari ushiro sumi, advance your right foot to your migi mae sumi. (In essence, you move your right foot in the same direction as his left foot.) When Uke slides his foot to the left in tsugi ashi, you should move your left foot as if it were pursuing his right. Your hands should be concentrated on lifting Uke with each step taken.

TSUKURI

At the very instant when Uke’s right foot is about to reach the mat – but before it is firmly planted – strongly sweep Uke’s right foot in the direction of it’s movement (to Uke’s left) with the sole of your left foot. At the same time, break his kuzushi more by lifting your right hand on his lapel, and push across Uke’s abdomen with your left hand on his sleeve. The action of your hands is the same as if you were holding a broom upright and you wanted to turn the broom horizontal.

KAKE

As you and Uke slide step (tsugi ashi) along the mat and you are preparing the sweep Uke, drive Uke’s right elbow sharply across his body, drive the lapel in the opposite direction and sweep Uke’s trailing right foot into his left to complete the throw. All actions must be timed well in order for the technique to work properly. Uke will fall on his back with both legs in the air.