Timing as the Foundation
Footsweeps in judo are fundamentally timing-oriented techniques that cannot succeed through force alone. Perfect timing allows the instructor to execute sweeps efficiently; poor timing makes even technically sound movements fail regardless of athleticism or strength.
Hip Position and Power Generation
A hinged hip position severely limits the force that can be applied during footsweeps. The practitioner must maintain an engaged hip position to generate maximum power through the legs, similar to kicking a ball rather than pushing with bent joints.
Koji: Setting the Trap with Hand Control
The Koji (inside leg sweep) begins with dominant grip control using the belt and sleeve to guide the opponent's movement. The instructor feints a turn throw, forcing the opponent to step forward defensively, which creates the optimal timing window for the sweep.
Koji: Execution and Variation
The basic Koji uses a pulling motion on the sleeve while the hand controls the chin, with the sweeping leg driven upward at a 45-degree angle. An advanced variation wraps the opponent's leg for a more forceful slam, though this requires careful positioning to avoid giving up the back.
Daoshi: Attacking the Trailing Leg
The Daoshi (outer leg sweep) targets the opponent's trailing leg by circling to create distance and shift their weight. The technique requires full hip engagement and only works when the targeted leg is not bearing weight.
Kosoto: Two-Step Finishing Technique
Kosoto (small outer sweep) completes the combination by sliding down the opponent's leg and applying downward pressure when their weight transfers off the front leg. This creates a smooth progression from initial attacks when earlier techniques don't fully succeed.
Creating Movement and Controlling Risk
Constantly cycling through footsweep attacks—Koji, Daoshi, Kosoto—forces the opponent into a defensive scramble regardless of whether each individual technique lands. From a dominant position with proper hand control, the risk of being thrown remains minimal while forcing continuous responses.
The Complete Triangle: Inside, Inside, Outside
The core footsweep system combines Koji (inside right leg), Daoshi (inside left leg), and Kosoto (outside leg) as complementary techniques that attack all viable targets. This three-technique framework covers the essential sweeping angles while remaining simple enough for practitioners to develop mastery.
Judo footsweeps in depth
Key Takeaways
- •Timing as the Foundation
- •Hip Position and Power Generation
- •Koji: Setting the Trap with Hand Control
- •Koji: Execution and Variation
Judo footsweeps in depth Footsweeps are timing oriented. I cover these three in this video: O uchi gari, de ashi barai, and ko soto gari. Footsweep cue: Hips cannot hinge back when going for sweeps. It's Like kicking a soccer ball. Ko uchi: Use your sleeve hand to guide your partner forwards to make them think you're going for a turn throw. As they step forward, attack ko uchi and "kick your soccer ball". Your collar hand goes to the chin. Ippon-seoi nage ko uchi maki komi is also an option. De ashi barai: Circle partner with collar hand, and sweep partner's trailing leg. Engage hips for the sweep. Push sleeve hand across and wheel their body downwards. Ko soto (to the far leg): This happens RvR or LvL. Block your partner's leg at their far leg knee, slide the foot down and attack ko soto in a tapping motion. Put all three together: Ko uchi - circle de ashi - far leg ko soto gari Then attack your bigger throws! My youtube membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC70qwffU7qQvTVm26wziD8A/join 1. 🔥 My JudoFanatics Instruction🔥 http://bit.ly/ShintaroJudoinstruction 2. 🎉 Ever wanted pockets on your Gi pants? Here it is! 🎉 http://bit.ly/2RLl13Z 3. 🐶 This Non-profit helps fund Local Judo athletes. Give today! 🐶 https://paypal.me/AthletesFund 4. 💪Follow me on social💪 https://www.instagram.com/judoshintaronyc/ https://www.facebook.com/JudoShintaroNYC/ https://www.instagram.com/kokushibudoinstitute/ https://www.facebook.com/kokushibudo/ https://www.instagram.com/kanomartialarts/ 5. 🥋 My favorite apparel🥋 Best apparel company http://bit.ly/2lKJwAE Favorite gi: http://bit.ly/2Ch3uYl BEST VALUE: My everyday affordable gi http://bit.ly/2C7JUOt To wear under the gi: http://bit.ly/2mHlWVI 6. Randoms The ONLY Athletic Tape I use: https://amzn.to/2oiuDHl
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about stick shift sweep?
This video covers timing as the foundation, hip position and power generation, koji: setting the trap with hand control. It provides detailed instruction from Shintaro Higashi.
How long does it take to learn stick shift sweep?
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.
What are the key details for finishing stick shift sweep?
Constantly cycling through footsweep attacks—Koji, Daoshi, Kosoto—forces the opponent into a defensive scramble regardless of whether each individual technique lands. From a dominant position with proper hand control, the risk of being thrown remains minimal while forcing continuous responses.
