Definition and Nomenclature
De ashi barai is named for the timing of its execution—the sweep targets the opponent's advancing foot as they step forward. The technique is called an "advancing foot sweep" because it capitalizes on the opponent's forward momentum to unbalance them.
Execution Mechanics
The sweeper executes the technique by using their leg to catch and sweep the opponent's foot as the opponent advances. The key principle is to sweep with a straight leg rather than bending the knee during the sweeping motion.
Timing and Application
De ashi barai is most effective when the opponent is actively stepping toward the practitioner. Once the sweep is completed successfully, the practitioner can immediately follow up with ground techniques or additional throws.
Cooperative Foot Sweep Drill
A fundamental training method involves alternating foot sweeps between two practitioners working cooperatively. Both partners take turns stepping forward while the other executes the sweep, performing the technique back and forth to develop consistency.
Speed and Tempo Development
The drill emphasizes quick, fast execution since foot sweeps occur at rapid tempos in live application. Practitioners perform multiple repetitions in succession, alternating legs to develop bilateral capability.
Movement Variations
The drill can be performed stationary or while moving backward and forward. Moving versions add another layer of timing development and coordination between practitioners.
Timing Drill Application
De ashi barai functions similarly to a boxer's jab—as both a direct technique and a setup for larger techniques. The drill trains the timing and distance management necessary for effective foot sweeps in judo, jiu-jitsu, and sambo.
Training Integration
Foot sweep drills are commonly used as warm-up exercises in grappling training sessions. Regular practice of this timing drill develops the coordination and reflexive patterns necessary for foot sweeps in competitive and practical application.
WHY IT'S CALLED DE ASHI BARAI
Key Takeaways
- •Definition and Nomenclature
- •Execution Mechanics
- •Timing and Application
- •Cooperative Foot Sweep Drill
De Ashi Barai translates to Advancing Foot Sweep and in this video, we show why this throw is so well named. Go to www.amazon.com or www.ymaa.com to get Steve Scott's books THE JUDO ADVANTAGE, SAMBO ENCYCLOPEDIA and JUJI GATAME ENCYCLOPEDIA. Our channel was started in 2010 as an extension of our program at Welcome Mat. Welcome Mat was founded in 1969 by Steve Scott in Kansas City, Missouri, USA and has produced thousands of successful students, athletes and coaches in a variety of grappling sports. View over a thousand videos on the subjects of judo, freestyle judo, Shingitai Jujitsu, sambo, submission grappling and sport jujitsu are on our Youtube channel. Browse through our playlists to see what we have on our channel. If a video is listed as "private" is it because that video is still in development or scheduled for later viewing. You can subscribe for free to our channel at http://youtube.com/user/welcomematstevescott. We strive to provide fundamentally sound and technically innovative skills and information on a variety of grappling sports. We appreciate your support! Please tell others about our channel. You can help support our channel by going to our online store and purchasing items. Go to http://www.WelcomeMatStore.com. We have a variety of books, shirts and other items for sale. Music for the Freestyle Judo show provided by YouTube Copyright Free Audio featuring "Fiend" by Sting and performed by the Jingle Punks and "All This Down Time" by Sting and performed by the Jingle Punks. Visit our club web site at http://www.WelcomeMatJudoClub. For information on the Judo Black Belt Association, go to http://www.judoblackbelt.com. Thank you for watching our video. Please tell others about our channel. Our videos are all original material and are copyrighted. Reproduction or showing these videos without the specific permission of Steve Scott is prohibited. #deashibarai #ashiwaza #judofootsweep
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about de ashi barai?
This video covers definition and nomenclature, execution mechanics, timing and application. It provides detailed instruction from welcomematstevescott.
How long does it take to learn 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 de ashi barai?
De ashi barai functions similarly to a boxer's jab—as both a direct technique and a setup for larger techniques. The drill trains the timing and distance management necessary for effective foot sweeps in judo, jiu-jitsu, and sambo.
