### Ouchi Gari: Step-by-Step Instructions **Position:** Standing **Japanese Name:** Ouchi Gari (大内刈り) **Top/Bottom:** N/A as it's a standing entry technique --- **Overview:** Ouchi Gari is a classic Judo and BJJ technique primarily used from a stand-up position. It focuses on disrupting the opponent's balance from the inside and executing a sweeping inner reaping throw. This technique is effective in leading to advantageous positions on the ground. --- ### **Steps to Execute Ouchi Gari**: **1. Establish Grips:** - Begin by establishing a standard grip on your opponent. Typically, you will have a collar grip with one hand and a sleeve grip with the other hand. **2. Control Balance:** - Use the collar grip to pull your opponent slightly forward while the sleeve grip should guide their opposite side. - Ensure you are in a balanced posture, with knees slightly bent and feet shoulder-width apart. **3. Step In:** - Step in with your lead foot aligned with your opponent's lead foot. Aim to have your chest facing theirs for maximum control. **4. Off-Balance the Opponent:** - Pull forward with the collar grip and twist your opponent's body using the sleeve grip. - The goal is to make your opponent's weight shift onto their lead leg. **5. Insert Your Reaping Leg:** - Use your back leg to step behind your opponent’s lead leg. - As you enter, aim to place your inner thigh close to the back of your opponent's knee. **6. Reap the Leg:** - Sweep your reaping leg backward in a "J" motion. - While sweeping, maintain tight control using your grips and ensure your opponent's weight is on the back leg. **7. Follow Through:** - Use your grips to push and guide your opponent down to the mat. - Continue to maintain control and follow them to the ground, transitioning to a dominant position like side control or mount. **8. Secure a Dominant Position:** - Once on the ground, immediately secure a dominant position for further advancements or to initiate submissions. --- ### **Additional Tips:** - Timing and precision are critical; practice the entry and reaping motion fluidly. - Consider using setups or feints to catch the opponent off guard. - Develop an understanding of body weights and shifting movements to enhance your control and success. ### **Common Mistakes to Avoid:** - Failing to control the opponent's upper body can result in poor balance and missed opportunities. - Incorrect placement of the reaping leg can lead to ineffective sweeps. - Lack of momentum through the entire motion can compromise the technique's effectiveness. By mastering Ouchi Gari, you can seamlessly integrate a powerful takedown into your BJJ arsenal, leading to advantageous ground control positions.