Terminology and Definition
De Ashi Barai translates to "advanced foot sweep," with "de" meaning forward-moving, "ashi" meaning foot, and "harai" meaning to sweep. This technique targets the opponent's front foot and is the most commonly used throw in judo, though often underestimated in its effectiveness.
Hand Positioning and Upper Body Mechanics
The hikite (pulling hand) pulls downward to bend the opponent, while the tsunite (following hand) rotates to drive the opponent's center of gravity down and forward. Rather than simply pulling, the instructor emphasizes driving the opponent downward in a controlled manner to establish proper positioning.
Distance and Target Precision
Proper maai (distance) is critical—too close prevents execution while too far results in a missed sweep. The target is the opponent's ankle bone, which should be caught with the foot as if it were a hand, requiring precise spacing to connect cleanly.
Leg Position and Power Generation
The sweeping leg must remain straight like a hockey stick to maintain maximum power and energy transfer. A bent leg significantly reduces effectiveness, requiring the practitioner to adjust distance accordingly to keep the leg fully extended during the sweep.
Body Posture and Weight Distribution
The practitioner must lean back slightly with a straight knee while maintaining connection through the grip. This body positioning, combined with the sweeping motion, generates substantially more power than an upright posture and is essential for a successful throw.
Grip Security and Hand Mechanics
Both the sleeve and collar grips require the thumb to be curled inward to secure the muscle and fabric, rather than left extended. A solid grip prevents the practitioner from falling during the sweep and provides the stability necessary to complete the technique.
Commitment and Follow-Through
Practitioners must continue rotating their head and body fully through the sweep rather than stopping upon contact. Partial execution results in failure; full commitment and continuous rotation significantly increase the technique's likelihood of success.
Combat Effectiveness and Historical Context
De Ashi Barai is a deceptively violent technique capable of causing significant trauma, including knockout force comparable to a hook punch. Professor Kano modified the original samurai application for regular training purposes, but the technique retains its combative nature when executed with proper form.
De-Ashi-Harai Tips | Riki Judo Dojo
Key Takeaways
- •Terminology and Definition
- •Hand Positioning and Upper Body Mechanics
- •Distance and Target Precision
- •Leg Position and Power Generation
Riki sensei showed us the fundamental way of doing de-ashi-harai / de-ashi-barai (advancing foot sweep) during judo class on 9-20-2021. 0:00 Definition 0:27 Kuzushi 0:51 Distance 1:03 The target is the ankle bone 1:13 Keep your leg straight 1:35 Lean back 1:51 Grip details 2:56 Go for broke 3:24 Hook punch 3:44 Jujitsu origin 3:58 Atemi waza in judo Riki sensei began Judo in Okinawa and is a Shichidan with over 56 years of study, practice, competition and teaching. He competed for 25 years at the local, national and international levels. A few of the great Judoka Riki sensei has studied and practiced with include: Kotani, Daigo, Ito, Inokuma, Okano, Kimura, Kaminaga and Nakatani. See Riki sensei teach every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evening at 535 W. Iron Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210. Youth classes are 6 - 6:55 PM, adult classes are 7:00 - 8:30 PM. For more info, please visit rikidojousa.com The purpose of this YouTube channel is to pass on the original, traditional, authentic Kodokan Judo that Riki sensei loves so much. Riki sensei's students maintain this YouTube channel (and are responsible for any errors), but you can find more of his thoughts at the Riki Judo Dojo Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Riki-Judo-Dojo-USA-194351210607759 15
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard de ashi barai?
This video covers terminology and definition, hand positioning and upper body mechanics, distance and target precision. It provides detailed instruction from Riki Judo Dojo.
How long does it take to learn standard de ashi barai?
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 standard de ashi barai?
Practitioners must continue rotating their head and body fully through the sweep rather than stopping upon contact. Partial execution results in failure; full commitment and continuous rotation significantly increase the technique's likelihood of success.
