Meaning of the Name:
Romanji: Ashi Barai
English: Foot Sweep
Japanese: 足払
Technique Description:
From a natural stance, Tori (the practitioner executing the technique) advances as if to attack. At the precise moment Uke (the opponent receiving the technique) begins to lift their foot to retreat, Tori executes the Ashi Barai (forward foot sweep). The sweep must be delivered the instant Uke’s foot leaves the ground, requiring decisive force. To generate optimal power, Tori straightens their posture to maintain balance while simultaneously pulling downward on Uke’s tsurite (lifting hand) to disrupt their center of gravity. As Uke’s balance shifts sideways, Tori completes the sweep in one swift, seamless motion.
In some cases, after hooking Uke’s foot, Tori may hop briefly on one foot to amplify momentum before finishing the technique. This maneuver is particularly effective for practitioners with agile footwork, lightweight competitors, and smaller individuals—especially women—who can leverage speed and precise timing.
The success of Ashi Barai hinges on flawless timing and cultivated tactical intuition, honed through experience, which often earns it high regard and frequent Ippon (full-point victory). Even if it doesn’t immediately down the opponent, the sweep creates instability, opening opportunities for follow-up techniques. For maximum effectiveness, the arch of Tori’s foot should strike just below Uke’s ankle, ensuring solid contact and control. Combining subtle balance-breaking (Kuzushi) with tactical opportunism, Ashi Barai exemplifies the artistry and strategy of Hyakusenkan Karate, transforming a seemingly simple motion into a decisive, match-winning technique.