Deashi Barai - Judo’s Advancing Foot Sweep

Mastering Deashi Barai - Judo’s Advancing Foot Sweep

Deashi Barai, often translated as the advancing foot sweep, stands as a fundamental technique in judo. The term "Deashi Barai" breaks down into three key components: "de" meaning to come out or forward, "ashi" referring to the foot, and "barai" meaning to sweep. This technique focuses on sweeping an opponent's foot as they step forward, taking advantage of their forward momentum.

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I have previously given my comprehensive version of how to do De Ashi Barai, and you would do well to examine that article. But this video not only gives a good discussion and demonstration of the throw but also covers counters and combinations using it, as well as a brief and very interesting history.

Historical Significance

Deashi Barai has a rich history, especially within the Kodokan Judo school. It gained significant attention during a famous tournament in 1886, where Kodokan Judo emerged victorious against other jiu-jitsu schools in Japan. The Kodokan players became renowned for their ability to swiftly execute Deashi Barai, sweeping their opponents off their feet before they could react. This technique quickly became symbolic of Kodokan Judo, emphasizing its importance in the art.

Key Elements of Deashi Barai

To effectively perform Deashi Barai, understanding its core principles is crucial. These principles include kuzushi (off-balancing), tsukuri (positioning), and kake (execution).

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Kuzushi (Off-Balancing)

The success of Deashi Barai heavily depends on timing. As your opponent steps forward, their weight shifts to their front foot. This moment presents an opportunity to disrupt their balance. By catching their foot during this weight transfer, you create a kuzushi, breaking their posture and setting up the sweep.

Tsukuri (Positioning)

Positioning plays a vital role in the success of Deashi Barai. You and your opponent should align as if both of your feet are on parallel rails. As your opponent steps forward, shift your back foot to align with your forward foot, positioning yourself directly in front of their advancing foot. This positioning allows for a more effective sweep.

Kake (Execution)

The execution of Deashi Barai involves sweeping your opponent's foot diagonally across the mat using your little toe close to the floor. Your leg should swing like a broom, keeping your hips forward throughout the sweep. The key to a successful kake lies in following your own foot’s path, ensuring that you continue driving your opponent's weight toward their swept foot.

Defence Against Deashi Barai

Understanding the principles behind Deashi Barai - Judo’s Advancing Foot Sweep, also allows for effective defense against it. The technique relies on precise timing and balance disruption, making these areas the primary focus for defence.

An opponent can defend against Deashi Barai by preserving their balance and quickly pulling their foot back before the sweep connects. Alternatively, they can drive their weight down onto the advancing foot, making it difficult to execute the sweep.

Combination Techniques

When your opponent defends against Deashi Barai by pulling their foot back, you can follow up with a combination technique. For instance, after a failed sweep, you can transition into a Kosoto Gari by continuing to apply pressure and re-engaging with a different attack. If they put their weight down to defend, they may turn their back slightly, making them vulnerable to an Osoto Guruma, allowing you to capitalize on their defensive posture.

Mastering Deashi Barai

Mastering Deashi Barai - Judo’s Advancing Foot Sweep requires a deep understanding of timing, positioning, and execution. By honing these Mastering Deashi Baraiskills and recognizing defensive strategies, you can effectively integrate this technique into your judo practice.

Enjoy
Sensai
Richard

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