Ko-uchi-gari 小内刈 (“Small Inner Reap”)
Category: Ashi-waza (Foot Techniques)
Translation: “Ko” = small, “uchi” = inner, “gari” = reap
Description
Ko-uchi-gari is a classic judo foot technique used to unbalance and sweep an opponent’s leg from the inside. It is commonly used in both beginner and advanced judo and forms part of the first group in the Gokyo no Waza.
To perform Ko-uchi-gari:
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Tori breaks uke’s balance to the rear-right corner, shifting uke’s weight onto the right foot.
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Tori then sweeps uke’s right ankle from the inside, using the sole or instep of the right foot.
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As uke loses support, they are driven directly backward.
Ko-uchi-gari is particularly effective when timed with uke’s forward movement or as a follow-up technique (renraku-waza) when uke steps back defensively.
Biomechanics of Ko-uchi-gari
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Throw Type: Couple (F1 + F2)
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Support Point: Uke’s right leg
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Kuzushi (Balance Breaking): To the rear or rear-right corner
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Action:
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Tori pushes uke’s upper body backward (F1)
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Simultaneously, tori’s foot reaps uke’s supporting leg from the inside in the opposite direction (F2)
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This opposing force creates a couple that disrupts uke’s stability and results in a clean fall.
Correct timing and posture are crucial. The sweeping motion should not lift uke’s leg too high, but rather cut it sharply at the ankle or calf level, depending on uke’s balance and positioning.
Did you know?
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In Japan, the distinction between Ko-uchi-gari (reap) and Ko-uchi-barai (sweep) is generally not made — both are referred to as Ko-uchi-gari. However, in the Netherlands and some European countries, instructors differentiate:
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Gari is used when uke’s foot is firmly on the mat
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Barai is used when uke’s foot is in motion or slightly lifted, requiring greater timing and finesse.
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This semantic nuance is not official in Kodokan doctrine but reflects a practical coaching method to help students understand timing.
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Ko-uchi-gari is often used as a setup or counter technique. For example, a failed O-soto-gari can quickly transition into Ko-uchi-gari, exploiting uke’s natural reaction.
Methodical Progression
Below are structured practice methods to help judoka isolate and master components of the technique.
Renraku-waza 連絡技 – Combinations in Opposite Directions
Renraku-waza, or “linking techniques”, involve combining throws in opposite directions. If the first attack is resisted or partially defended, tori redirects the movement and executes a second throw in the opposite direction. This approach is highly effective for breaking uke’s defence and regaining initiative.
Renzoku-waza 連続技 – Combinations in the Same Direction
Renzoku-waza refers to consecutive techniques that follow the same direction of movement, progressively unbalancing uke until a throw is achieved. While less discussed explicitly, this principle is widely used in randori and shiai to maintain pressure and rhythm.
Part 1
Combinations Ending with Ko-uchi-gari
Part 1
Kaeshi-waza 返し技 – Counter Techniques
Kaeshi-waza refers to counter-throws where tori reverses uke’s attack using timing and redirection. The key elements include:
- Exploiting Unbalance: Uke becomes temporarily unstable during their attack. Tori uses this moment to counter.
- Redirecting Force: Rather than resisting, tori guides uke’s force into a vulnerable angle.
- Blending with Movement: By moving with uke’s attack, tori stays in control and prepares a reversal.
These counters are fundamental to tactical judo and emphasize using uke’s momentum against them.