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Judo technique

De-ashi-barai

Learn the basics of De-ashi-barai.

Start lessonLesson overview
Illustration of De-ashi-barai, an advancing foot sweep
Technique image: In De-ashi-barai, tori sweeps uke's advancing foot as it becomes light, while the grips guide the body in the same direction.

Meaning

Advancing foot sweep

Pronunciation

deh-ah-shee bah-rye

Understand the technique

is an advancing-foot sweep. uses the instant when stepping foot is moving or becoming light, sweeps it low, and guides the upper body in the same direction. Timing and direction make the sweep work, not a hard kick.

How it works

Make the step useful

Use the grips to move uke so a foot has to advance. Watch for the moment the foot travels and its weight leaves it; a foot that is planted heavily is not the target for this sweep.

Sweep low in the throwing line

Contact the moving foot low with the sole and guide it along its path rather than striking the ankle. At the same time, continue the upper-body pull so uke's body follows the swept foot into the fall.

Common mistakes

Chasing a heavy foot

Sweeping after uke has planted weight turns the action into a push or kick and usually stops the timing. Reset the movement and wait until the advancing foot is light again.

First learning focus

First learn to recognize the light-foot moment during walking. Add a small, smooth sweep only when the grips are already guiding uke in the same direction.

What you will learn

  • Recognize the name De-ashi-barai
  • Understand the basic timing idea of De-ashi-barai

Key terms