ENDE

Judo technique

Ko-uchi-gari

Learn the minor inner reap and its Barai timing variation.

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Illustration of Ko-uchi-gari attacking the heel from inside
Technique image: Ko-uchi-gari uses a compact inside reap against uke's heel.

Understand the technique

is a minor inner reap. directs backward and reaps the near heel from inside while the foot is carrying weight. The compact action differs from a Barai variation, which extends a moving step.

How it works

Take the balance backward

Use to place uke's weight onto the foot you can reach from inside. Keep the posture close enough that the hands and reaping foot act in one backward direction.

Reap at the heel

Place the sole at uke's heel and remove the loaded support with a short inside action. The foot stays low and precise rather than kicking upward at the ankle or knee.

Common mistakes

Sweeping after the foot becomes unavailable

Chasing a withdrawn foot separates the leg from the upper-body direction. Rebuild the backward load or follow uke's step with the paired O-uchi attack.

First learning focus

First distinguish the loaded-foot moment of Gari from the light-foot moment of Barai. Then connect a small heel reap to the same backward line created by the grips.