### Japanese Technique: Kouchi Gari Kouchi Gari, also known in Japanese as "小内刈り," is traditionally a judo technique adapted into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It's recognized as a foot sweep aiming to off-balance an opponent and quickly bring them to the ground. While originating in judo, its application in BJJ is appreciated for its efficiency and quick redirection of an opponent's base. ### Technique Description Kouchi Gari translates to **"small inner reap"** and primarily targets one of the opponent's legs (commonly the lead leg) to disrupt their balance and bring them down. This move can be initiated from a **Standing Position**. ### Step-by-Step Instructions 1. **Grip and Stand** - Position yourself in front of your opponent. - Secure a firm **collar tie grip** with one hand or both. Alternatively, a sleeve and lapel grip similar to judo styles could work, especially in **gi matches**. 2. **Set Up and Balance Disruption** - Step slightly off to one side (usually the side of their lead foot) to create an angle. - Redirect your opponent's upper body to your gripping side to disrupt their balance. Use a pulling motion to make them uncomfortable and reactive. 3. **Foot Placement and Targeting** - As your opponent shifts their weight, keep your stance firm. - Use your rear foot to position yourself, while your other foot lightly taps or hooks the inner part of their lead leg. 4. **Reap and Take Down** - In a definitive movement, bring the hooking leg inward and backward, sweeping or "reaping" their leading foot. - Concurrently, maintain the pull or rotation with your upper body grip to ensure they continue moving downwards. - Timing is essential; coordinate your sweep and pull effectually so that their leading leg is lifted as they are pulled off balance. 5. **Finish and Secure** - As the opponent begins to fall, guide them to a side or forward direction to control the descent. - Land in a secure position (such as **Side Control** or gain immediate positional advantage). - Secure a dominant position on the ground to follow through with BJJ groundwork strategies. ### Tips for Successful Execution - Maintain a good stance throughout the maneuver to ensure your center of gravity stays controlled. - Precise synchronization between your upper body pull and leg reap is key for maximal effectiveness. - Practice the sweeping motion repeatedly until it feels intuitive and natural. Kouchi Gari can be highly effective in competitions and self-defense scenarios, giving you an upper hand in forcefully yet strategically bringing an opponent to the ground. As with all techniques, strong fundamental balance and grip work will enhance its effectiveness.