End Product and Setup
Okuri ashi barai culminates with the attacker stepping in and sweeping the defender's feet, causing them to fly backward. The technique begins with both practitioners in kumikata (standard lapel-and-sleeve grip), with the attacker positioned approximately half a step behind and maintaining an upright posture with proper distance between their bodies.
Foundational Footwork and Body Positioning
The attacker must maintain square shoulders, upright posture, and keep hips engaged rather than leaning forward. Practitioners begin by executing multiple stepping sequences—the attacker steps forward while the defender steps backward—using sugi ashi (gliding steps) to move smoothly without crossing feet. This repetitive drill establishes the fundamental rhythm and body mechanics essential to the technique.
Progressive Speed and Hip-Driven Movement
The stepping drill is performed at increasing speeds to develop timing and to allow the body's forward momentum to create the throwing force. The attacker should lead with the hips while maintaining hand control, allowing the movement itself—rather than muscular effort—to break the defender's balance and generate the throw.
Foot Sweep Mechanics and Wrap Technique
The sweep itself requires wrapping the foot around the defender's ankle rather than kicking or clubbing. The attacker brings both of the defender's feet together as if nailing them, using a straight leg sweep with hips open, which causes the defender to be upended. The hands maintain control throughout but do not lift or push—they simply hold position so the foot action creates the fall.
Execution Under Pressure
During the one-step attack, the attacker steps in while simultaneously executing the foot sweep. Hip extension opens naturally as the sweep executes, enabling a straight sweeping motion. The technique requires practice as a standalone skill to develop the coordination necessary for effective application in randori or competition.
OKURI ASHI BARAI BASICS
Key Takeaways
- •End Product and Setup
- •Foundational Footwork and Body Positioning
- •Progressive Speed and Hip-Driven Movement
- •Foot Sweep Mechanics and Wrap Technique
Okuri Ashi Barai (Sliding Foot Sweep) exemplifies all the technical skills that make a throwing technique work. In this video, we show the fundamentally important skills of Okuri Ashi Barai. 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about okuri ashi barai?
This video covers end product and setup, foundational footwork and body positioning, progressive speed and hip-driven movement. It provides detailed instruction from welcomematstevescott.
How long does it take to learn okuri ashi barai?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 5-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing okuri ashi barai?
The sweep itself requires wrapping the foot around the defender's ankle rather than kicking or clubbing. The attacker brings both of the defender's feet together as if nailing them, using a straight leg sweep with hips open, which causes the defender to be upended. The hands maintain control throughout but do not lift or push—they simply hold position so the foot action creates the fall.
