When should I use the Ashi Garami?

The Ashi Garami is most effectively used when you are in the Open Guard position. This technique works well during the Ground Phase phase and can be set up through proper positioning and timing.

Is the Ashi Garami suitable for beginners?

The Ashi Garami can be learned by practitioners of various skill levels. Focus on mastering the fundamental positions and movements first. Practice the technique slowly with controlled movements before attempting at full speed.

Difficulty Level

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Ashi Garami

Alternative Names

Judo: Ashi Garami
Japanese: 足緘
BJJ: Leg Entanglement, Outside Ashi Garami, Inside Ashi Garami, 50/50 Guard, Honey Hole
Wrestling: Leg Scissors, Leg Lock Position

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Ground Phase Open Guard Half Guard Joint Lock Techniques (Kansetsu-waza)

Description

Ashi Garami is a leg entanglement technique in Judo that targets the knee joint by entangling the opponent's leg using one's own legs. Originally included in the Kodokan Judo curriculum by Jigoro Kano, this technique is one of the original 29 grappling techniques and is classified under Kansetsu-waza (joint techniques). Due to the high risk of serious knee injury, Ashi Garami has been prohibited in Judo competitions since 1916 but remains taught in self-defense contexts and kata forms. The technique involves controlling the opponent's leg with your legs and applying pressure to force submission through knee joint manipulation.

Common Applications

Ashi Garami is primarily used for:
- Forcing submission through knee joint pressure and manipulation
- Controlling and neutralizing an opponent's movement
- Transitioning to other leg lock positions (heel hooks, toe holds, knee bars)
- Self-defense scenarios where leg control is advantageous
- Teaching proper understanding of joint lock mechanics and leverage principles

Note: Due to injury risk, this technique is prohibited in Judo competition and should only be practiced under expert supervision with extreme caution.

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