Ko-soto-gake 小外掛

Small Outer Hook

Classification: Ashi-waza (leg technique)
Japanese meaning:

• Ko = small

• Soto = outer

• Gake = hook

Technical Description

Ko-soto-gake is a leg technique that closely resembles Ko-soto-gari (small outer reap), yet differs significantly in execution. Instead of reaping uke’s leg in a sweeping arc, gake refers to hooking the leg and pulling or driving uke down and backward.

To perform Ko-soto-gake:

• Break uke’s balance (kuzushi) towards their rear or rear-right corner.

• Tori steps in diagonally, hooks uke’s right leg from the outside using their left foot, typically behind or just above the ankle.

• Simultaneously, tori drives uke’s upper body backward using the pulling and pushing action of the arms.

• The combined upper-body control and lower-body hook cause uke to fall backward and sideways.

Unlike Ko-soto-gari, this throw involves a trapping or hooking motion rather than a sweeping one, which creates a sticky, tight rotation—particularly useful when uke resists or pushes back.

Biomechanics of Ko-soto-gake

This technique functions as a couple (F1 + F2):

• F1: Tori applies forward pressure on uke’s upper body, often eliciting a reflexive push back from uke (action-reaction).

• F2: Tori then uses the opposite leg to hook uke’s supporting leg (usually uke’s right leg) from behind.

• The opposing forces—pushing uke’s upper body backward while pulling the leg—cause uke to rotate and fall in a controlled manner.

Did You Know?

How do you spot a true judoka?
Check their hands and feet. A disciplined judoka keeps clean, trimmed nails—no long edges, no dirt. Why? Because long nails can act like blades, easily causing cuts or injuries to training partners. Cleanliness and hygiene are a reflection of respect and care, both core principles in judo.