Judo technique

Sasae-tsuri-komi-ashi

Pronunciation: sah-sah-eh tsoo-ree koh-mee ah-shee
Meaning: Supporting lifting-pulling foot throw

Tell Sasae’s low block at the ankle from Hiza-guruma’s block below the knee.

Tori and Uke in Sasae-tsuri-komi-ashi as Uke is turned forward. — Technique image: Look for where the bodies touch and which way Uke goes in Sasae-tsuri-komi-ashi. The lesson describes the right side; the left side mirrors it.

Understand the technique

is a supporting lifting-pulling foot throw in . blocks stepping foot low at the ankle before it takes full weight, and the hands lift and turn Uke forward around that stopped step. The low contact distinguishes it from , which blocks just below the knee.

How it works

Stop the step before it lands

In the right-sided example, Tori draws Uke into a forward step with the right foot. Tori’s left sole stops Uke’s lower leg at the ankle or instep before that foot takes full weight.

Lift and turn around the block

The hands lift and turn so Uke rotates forward around the stopped foot. The block stays still; the hands make the throw. The other side mirrors this example.

Common mistakes

Blocking a settled foot

Waiting until the step is fully weighted loses the moment while the foot is still moving. Watch the approaching foot instead of pushing against a settled stance.

First learning focus

First watch the moment the stepping foot is stopped, before it lands fully. Then check whether the hands keep lifting and turning.