Introduction to O Soto Gari
Coach Cliff Pennick, a multiple-time international judo champion with over 50 years of experience, demonstrates two distinct variations of o soto gari. This instructional session covers both traditional and competitive approaches to one of judo's most effective throwing techniques.
Grip and Stance Fundamentals
For the basic o soto gari, establish control by gripping the opponent's sleeve and collar (or equivalent in no-gi). Position yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with your opponent, ensuring their weight transfers to the target leg before executing the technique.
Foot Positioning and Leg Entry
Step forward with the non-throwing leg while maintaining shoulder contact. The throwing leg enters at approximately a 45-degree angle like a flipper, with toes dragging across the mat to generate power. This positioning is critical for both control and safety.
Training Safety and Uchi Komi Drills
Practice o soto gari through uchi komi (repetition drilling) without full resistance to protect the opponent's knees. Execute multiple controlled entries and exits before committing to a full sweep, emphasizing shoulder movement and mat contact throughout.
Throwing Mechanics and Body Alignment
As the non-throwing leg extends backward, the head drives downward while the throwing leg swings through in a 45-degree arc—not directly backward. Maintain chest-to-chest contact and control the opponent's descent to the mat for safety.
Competitive O Soto Gari Variation
The hopping o soto gari targets more experienced opponents with better balance and defensive awareness. Clip the back of the opponent's leg first to disrupt their posture, then explosively close distance while hopping to drive them into the mat.
Distance Management and Execution
From a neutral position, clip the opponent's leg to break their balance. Once control is established, hop progressively closer while driving the head downward and executing the sweep with maximum force into the mat.
Head Protection During Competition
When executing o soto gari at full intensity, protect your head by tucking it to the side rather than driving it downward into the mat. This rolling motion prevents head injuries while maintaining the power and control necessary for a decisive throw.
Application Context: Competitive vs. Self-Defense
The traditional o soto gari serves practitioners who need a simple, effective takedown without extensive wrestling experience or ground engagement. The hopping variation suits competitive judoka facing strong, experienced opponents who maintain superior balance.
2 Ways to JUDO... Osoto Gari with Coach Cliff!
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to O Soto Gari
- •Grip and Stance Fundamentals
- •Foot Positioning and Leg Entry
- •Training Safety and Uchi Komi Drills
This video my friend Cliff Penick who was an international judo competitor with over 50 years judo experience demonstrates a couple ways to throw someone with an osoto gari. Check out the details and you are sure to find something useful! Enjoy! If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please comment below. More videos to come! Please like, share, and subscribe!!PLEASE Click this link to SUPPORT the TeachMeGrappling Channel!!! https://www.patreon.com/TeachMeGrappling or https://www.paypal.me/CoachBrianPeterson Your contribution is much appreciated and will help me continue to bring you content! 🙏 www.NextLevelGuy.com The NextLevelGuy Podcast with Coach Brian Peterson has been released!! Check it out!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about running o soto gari?
This video covers introduction to o soto gari, grip and stance fundamentals, foot positioning and leg entry. It provides detailed instruction from TeachMeGrappling Coach Brian.
How long does it take to learn running o soto gari?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing running o soto gari?
When executing o soto gari at full intensity, protect your head by tucking it to the side rather than driving it downward into the mat. This rolling motion prevents head injuries while maintaining the power and control necessary for a decisive throw.
