Judo Foot Sweep Timing: De-Ashi-Barai on the Move

Partner progression of de-ashi-barai, the judo forward foot sweep that relies on timing more than strength. Students work on syncing with the partner's step, gripping, and a safe side breakfall on the mats.

How to play

1. Pairs of similar weight and height on the mats, with at least 6 ft between pairs. Review side breakfalls from a squat, 5 each side (3 min).
2. Moving in grips (3 min): standard sleeve-and-lapel grip; tori leads uke in short side steps and counts out loud when uke's foot is about to land.
3. Sweep without a fall (4 min): right at that moment, tori sweeps uke's ankle with the sole of the foot in the direction of the step, without pulling with the hands. Uke just lets the foot slide. 10 per side.
4. Sweep with a fall (5 min): tori adds a downward sleeve pull and uke falls to the side, slapping the mat. Tori holds the sleeve all the way down. 5 per side, then switch roles.
5. Timing game (5 min): uke moves freely at their own pace for 30 seconds; tori may only sweep when the timing is right. One point per sweep with a controlled fall, then switch.
6. Wrap-up (2 min): each pair explains what happens if you sweep late, once the foot is already weighted.

Rules

• Sweep the ankle with the sole of the foot only, never with the heel or shin.
• Tori never lets go of uke's sleeve during the fall.
• If uke doesn't feel safe, they tap tori's shoulder twice and everyone stops.
• Falls only on the mats and away from other pairs.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student coaches, counting the step rhythm and judging whether the sweep was on time.
• Visual impairment: always work in grips so the student feels the partner's weight shift through the hands.
• Lower fitness or fear of falling: stay at the no-fall sweep stage and keep practicing breakfalls from a squat.

Learning goals

• Time the sweep to the partner's step.
• Perform a safe side breakfall with a slap.
• Control the partner during the throw by holding the sleeve.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tatami mats: 30

Teacher tip

The usual mistake is sweeping hard after the foot is already planted: tell them to sweep like brushing away a leaf. Students should already be comfortable with side breakfalls before this lesson.

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