Introduction and Technique Overview

Derek Darling and Mike Hinton demonstrate the rolling Ashi Sankaku, a dynamic leglock transition that appears complex but becomes intuitive with proper understanding of pendular motion. The technique begins with a rolling knee bar setup but evolves into a triangle leg entanglement followed by a far-leg capture as the instructor rolls underneath the opponent.

Initial Setup and Threat Recognition

The instructor initiates the technique by establishing an uchi mata threat, which conditions the opponent's defensive response. A quasi-blackbelt grip or leg trap is applied to secure the initial leg while maintaining the illusion of the throw, prompting the opponent to react naturally to the perceived threat.

Commitment and Belief in the Throw

A critical principle for successful transition is making the opponent genuinely believe the throw will execute. If the instructor attempts the submission without establishing the throw threat, the opponent resists effectively. By committing fully to the throw mechanics before transitioning, the instructor bypasses the opponent's defensive instincts.

Leveraging Early Leg Control Against Resistance

The leg triangle entanglement is established early in the movement, providing a mechanical advantage that persists even if a stronger opponent attempts to hold the instructor upright. By securing this control immediately and pulling the shoulder downward while capturing the far ankle, the instructor can complete the technique regardless of the opponent's strength or resistance.

Executing the Sankaku Behind the Back

The leg triangle position around the opponent's back mirrors the Kani Busami mechanics familiar to judo and sambo practitioners. Rather than completing an over-under hook sequence, the instructor maintains the front leg position and allows the sweeping motion to naturally place the outer leg behind the opponent as the roll commences.

Balance, Grip, and Stability

Proper upper-body grip and front leg positioning create the structural stability necessary to swing the second leg into position behind the opponent. Without secure grips at both control points, the rolling transition becomes uncontrolled and inefficient, reducing leverage and pressure application.

Shin Placement and Pressure Application

Upon completing the triangle, the instructor flattens the shin across the opponent's thigh rather than keeping the knees together, which distributes pressure more effectively and forces the opponent downward. This shin placement allows the triangle to remain tight even with minimal upper-body squeezing, creating a powerful and sustainable position.

Finishing Positions and Submission Options

Once the rolling Ashi Sankaku is secured, the instructor controls both legs with the triangle entanglement and far-ankle grip, creating multiple finishing options. These include direct ankle locks, heel hooks, or transitions into double knee bars and double heel hooks, providing strategic flexibility based on opponent movement and positioning.

ROLLING ASHI SANKAKU TO LEGLOCKS

welcomematstevescott

Ashi-Gatame From Standing

2 min read·8 key moments·PT5M40S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction and Technique Overview
•Initial Setup and Threat Recognition
•Commitment and Belief in the Throw
•Leveraging Early Leg Control Against Resistance

This video shows a Rolling Transition from standing to a variety of leg and ankle locks using a Leg Triangle. Coaching by Derrick Darling with Mike Pennington. View hundreds of videos of judo, freestyle judo, Shingitai Jujitsu, sambo, submission grappling and sport jujitsu on our Youtube channel at http://youtube.com/user/welcomematstevescott. The Welcome Mat Judo-Jujitsu Club was founded in 1969. Please subscribe to our Youtube channel if you have not done so already. Visit our web sites at http://www.WelcomeMatJudoClub, http://www.judoblackbelt.com and visit our online store at http://www.WelcomeMatStore.com. Join our premium channel at http://www.grapplingcoach.us. Thank you for watching our video.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about ashi-gatame from standing?

This video covers introduction and technique overview, initial setup and threat recognition, commitment and belief in the throw. It provides detailed instruction from welcomematstevescott.

How long does it take to learn ashi-gatame from standing?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.