Martial intent
To project Uke mainly backward, with a slight diagonal direction, by exploiting the weight transfer onto the attacked heel.
In short
Ko-uchi-gari is a fundamental throwing technique (Nage-waza) that targets Uke’s rear supporting leg.
Tori reaps Uke’s heel inward using the sole of the foot, with a short and close movement.
This technique is particularly effective when Uke is stepping backward and transferring weight onto the rear leg, making balance recovery difficult.
Video
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Source: official YouTube channel of the Kodokan Judo Institute
⚠️ This technique should be learned and practised in a club under the supervision of a qualified instructor. The explanations below do not replace supervised judo training.
Steps
- Kuzushi (off-balancing) : Break Uke’s balance backward by pulling the sleeve and guiding the lapel in the same direction, loading Uke’s weight onto the rear leg.
- Tsukuri (entry) : Step in with the right foot, placing it close to the inside of Uke’s supporting foot, without overstepping the axis, while maintaining backward off-balance.
- Tsukuri (final adjustment) : Adjust the left foot to stabilize your posture and maintain a balanced base before executing the leg action.
- Kake (execution) : Reap Uke’s left heel with the sole of your right foot, using a short inward hooking motion at the moment Uke’s weight is fully committed to that leg.
- Completion : Continue guiding with the arms backward and slightly downward to complete the projection to the ground.
Key points
- Backward off-balance must be established before the reap.
- The reaping foot targets the heel, not the entire leg.
- The leg action is short, close, and precise, without kicking.
- The arms act continuously to guide the direction of the fall.
- Timing is critical: execute as Uke steps back and loads the rear leg.
- Maintain your own balance on the supporting leg throughout the technique.
Recommendations
To maximize effectiveness, synchronize the heel reap with coordinated arm action.
The sleeve hand pulls diagonally downward along the axis of the attacked leg, while the lapel hand guides backward without excessive pushing.
This coordination prevents Uke from regaining balance with the free leg.
Common mistakes
Beginners often attempt to reap with too much force, overextending the leg and staying too far from Uke.
Ko-uchi-gari then becomes a distant hooking action without real off-balancing, which Uke can easily resist.
How to fix them
- Move closer to Uke while slightly lowering your center of gravity.
- Use a light, close, reaping motion with the sole of the foot.
- Keep the leg relaxed and the knee slightly bent.
- Imagine sliding a sheet of paper under Uke’s heel rather than striking the leg.
- Focus on timing and direction of off-balance, not power.
If you're getting back into judo after a long break, rediscovering your throws takes a progressive approach. Check the guide to returning to judo after 40 to get things back on track.