Meaning of the Name:
Romanji: Ashi Sasae
English: Propping Ankle Throw
Japanese: 足支
Technique Description:
Starting from a natural stance, Tori steps decisively toward Uke, drawing their bodies close together. As he pulls Uke with his Hiki-te (pulling hand), Tori uses the forward-stepped foot as a fulcrum to reverse his body's momentum, sweeping the arch of that same foot against Uke’s ankle. This reversal not only destabilizes Uke by drawing him forward but also sets the stage for the final execution: with a twisting motion akin to turning a car’s steering wheel, Tori throws Uke to the ground. Even when the throw is not fully successful, the disruption of Uke’s balance often creates an opening to transition into another technique. In competition, fighters might even feint this move before executing an Osoto-gari (large outer reap). It is crucial to understand that relying solely on the hands is insufficient; the effective use of body momentum and the leg as a pivot is essential, with a large forward step on the support leg enhancing the twisting motion.