Judo technique

Tai-otoshi

Learn the body drop through front-corner direction and a low leg barrier.

Understand the technique

is a body drop in which turns toward a front corner over a low extended leg barrier. The hands and full-body rotation create the main direction; the leg defines the path without locking uke's knee.

How it works

Lead toward the front corner

Use both grips to take uke forward and diagonally before turning. The lapel-side elbow lifts under uke's armpit while the sleeve hand keeps the body moving into the chosen corner.

Place a low, safe barrier

Turn fully and extend the leg across uke's path with the calf near the shin and below the knee line. Continue the hand direction and straighten the leg without forcing the knee backward.

Common mistakes

Treating the leg as the throw

Placing a leg without front-corner kuzushi leaves uke balanced and encourages knee pressure. Make the hands and rotation lead, then let the low barrier complete the direction.

First learning focus

First establish the front-corner pull and complete turn. Add the low leg barrier only when it can stay below uke's knee and aligned with the fall.