Technique Overview: Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi

Sasae tsurikomi ashi is a fundamental foot technique in judo where the practitioner sweeps or blocks the opponent's leg while executing an upper body throw. This technique combines footwork with hand techniques to effectively off-balance and throw the opponent. Despite being classified as a foot technique, proper hand execution is essential for successful completion.

Entry and Positioning

The practitioner enters from the side, positioning the body perpendicular to the opponent while maintaining close distance. The toes must face the opponent to allow proper body rotation during the technique. Stepping too far out or with toes turned outward prevents adequate torso twist and compromises the throw's effectiveness.

First Step: Breaking Balance with Hand Control

The first movement involves pulling the opponent's collar upward with the right hand in a diagonal motion, executed with speed and snap. This pull must be crisp and forceful to break the opponent's balance before the leg technique is applied. The wrist action drives downward while the hand pulls diagonally upward, creating an unbalanced position.

Second Step: Leg Placement and Execution

The right foot is placed below the opponent's knee, in the area just under the knee joint. From this position, the practitioner can either drop the opponent's leg or execute a sweep, depending on the situation and opponent's response. Both options are valid and lead to successful throw completion.

Upper Body Mechanics: The Wheel Turn

As the leg technique is applied, the practitioner pushes the opponent's elbow upward toward their shoulder while rotating the torso in a steering-wheel motion. This rotational movement, combined with the initial upward pull, generates the throwing force. The body twist must continue throughout the motion to carry the opponent over the hip and behind the practitioner.

Footwork Details: Knee Positioning

The planted leg (left leg) must bend at the knee to maintain balance and lower the center of gravity during entry. The sweeping leg (right leg) remains relatively straight during the leg technique to maximize control and sweeping force. Proper knee positioning prevents loss of balance and ensures effective power transfer.

Complete Movement Sequence

The technique consists of two distinct steps: first, stepping in from the side while pulling the opponent's collar upward to break balance; second, placing the right foot below the knee while executing the wheel turn with the upper body to complete the throw. The entire sequence must flow smoothly with proper timing between hand and foot techniques. Both steps require precision in positioning and execution to achieve maximum effectiveness.

Sasae tsurikomi ashi 1/2 | Online Judo Lesson You Can Do At Home Alone!

Shintaro Nakano

Standard Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi

2 min read·7 key moments·PT10M41S video

Key Takeaways

•Technique Overview: Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi
•Entry and Positioning
•First Step: Breaking Balance with Hand Control
•Second Step: Leg Placement and Execution

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard sasae tsurikomi ashi?

This video covers technique overview: sasae tsurikomi ashi, entry and positioning, first step: breaking balance with hand control. It provides detailed instruction from Shintaro Nakano.

How long does it take to learn standard sasae tsurikomi ashi?

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.