Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi (Supporting Foot Lift Pull Throw – Control, Lift, and Rotational Precision in Judo

Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi, meaning “Supporting Foot Lift Pull Throw,” is a dynamic and highly technical Ashi-waza (foot technique) in Kodokan Judo. This throw perfectly demonstrates the principles of Kuzushi (off-balancing), Tsukuri (entry), and Kake (execution), combining lifting action with precise foot placement to create clean rotational movement.

Widely used in competition judo (shiai) and taught from beginner to advanced levels, Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi is a fundamental technique for developing timing, grip coordination, and tactical awareness.

What is Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi?

In Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi, tori (the attacker) blocks uke’s (the opponent’s) advancing foot at the ankle or lower shin while simultaneously applying a lifting and pulling action through the grips (Kumi-kata).

The name itself explains the mechanics:

• Sasae – To prop or support

• Tsuri – To lift

• Komi – To pull inward

• Ashi – Foot or leg

Unlike sweeping techniques such as Deashi Harai, Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi does not remove the foot from the mat. Instead, it blocks forward movement while lifting and pulling uke over the anchored point, creating a sharp, controlled throw.

Key Principles of Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi

1. Lift Before Block – The upper body and gripping action initiates kuzushi before the foot engages.

2. Precise Ankle Placement – The blocking foot targets the ankle or lower shin, not the knee.

3. Rotational Kuzushi – Off-balancing is diagonal and circular, not straight forward.

4. Strong Sleeve Action – The sleeve hand guides rotation and prevents uke from stepping out.

5. Timing Over Power – Executed as uke steps forward or applies pressure.

Because it relies on coordination and rhythm rather than strength, Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi is effective for judoka of all body types and weight categories.

Why Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi is Important

Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi is considered a cornerstone technique in Judo because it develops essential technical skills, including:

• Grip control (Lift and Pull)

• Balance disruption (Kuzushi mastery)

• Foot placement accuracy

• Rotational movement awareness

• Combination attack development (Renraku-waza)

It teaches judoka how to control distance (Ma-ai) and capitalize on forward momentum, making it a powerful tactical tool in Randori (sparring) and competition.

Applications in Training and Competition

Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi is frequently seen in:

• Olympic-level Judo

• High-level Shiai (competition matches)

• Combination sequences

• Movement-based attacking strategies

Common combinations include:

• Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi to Harai Goshi

• Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi to Osoto Gari

It is particularly effective against opponents who drive forward aggressively or attempt strong grip pressure.

Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi vs Hiza Guruma – Quick Distinction

These two techniques are often confused but attack different lines:

• Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi: Foot placed on the front or the ankle or bottom of the shin, lift and pull action to throw

• Hiza Guruma: Foot placed on the outside of the knee, circular rotation to throw

Both are fundamental Ashi-waza techniques and essential for a complete Judo throwing system.

For a more thorough breakdown to Hiza Guruma vs Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi, CLICK HERE

Watch the video below for Left & Right demonstrations, a breakdown or the movement and competition examples:

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