Introduction to De Ashi Harai from Rear Control
De Ashi Harai is a highly effective foot sweep executed from rear body lock position. This technique requires minimal energy expenditure while providing substantial control after the takedown lands, making it ideal for competition scoring.
Creating Movement and Breaking Balance
The foundation of a successful De Ashi Harai begins with intentional movement creation. By pulling the opponent backward or pushing them forward, the instructor forces them to prioritize falling prevention over hand separation, creating the optimal conditions for the sweep.
Timing the Foot Sweep: Elevated vs. Planted
De Ashi Harai is only effective when targeting the foot as it lifts off the ground during the stepping motion. Sweeping a planted foot produces no reaction; proper timing catches the foot mid-air for maximum lifting and throwing effect.
Foundational Drill: Mirroring Footwork
Practitioners begin by placing two hands on the opponent's hips and mirroring their walking pattern step-for-step. This drill develops the spatial awareness and timing necessary to predict foot placement and execute the sweep at the optimal moment.
Progressive Execution: Adding Hip Drive
Once footwork mirroring is mastered, practitioners introduce a subtle hip pop during the sweep. The right foot steps inward while lifting through the hips, generating full-body momentum to cleanly elevate the opponent off the mat.
Complete Technique Integration
The finished De Ashi Harai coordinates foot positioning, hip elevation, and upper-body mechanics into one fluid motion. As the sweep executes, the right elbow rises while the left elbow drives downward across the hip, ensuring the opponent lands with hips positioned between the attacker's knees.
Post-Takedown Positioning and Continuation
Immediately after landing the sweep, the instructor maintains control by covering the opponent's hips. From this advantageous position, the attacker can transition to a breakdown, establish hooks, and transition into attacking turtle position or half-guard attacks.
How to Do a Perfect De Ashi Harai | Gordon Ryan
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to De Ashi Harai from Rear Control
- •Creating Movement and Breaking Balance
- •Timing the Foot Sweep: Elevated vs. Planted
- •Foundational Drill: Mirroring Footwork
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard de ashi barai?
This video covers introduction to de ashi harai from rear control, creating movement and breaking balance, timing the foot sweep: elevated vs. planted. It provides detailed instruction from Gordon Ryan.
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 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard de ashi barai?
The finished De Ashi Harai coordinates foot positioning, hip elevation, and upper-body mechanics into one fluid motion. As the sweep executes, the right elbow rises while the left elbow drives downward across the hip, ensuring the opponent lands with hips positioned between the attacker's knees.




