Ashi Guruma
Ashi Guruma is a dynamic Judo throwing technique where the tori (executor) uses their leg as a fulcrum to wheel the uke (opponent) over in a circular motion. The technique involves blocking the oppon…
- Judo: Ashi Guruma
- Japanese: 足車
- BJJ: Leg Wheel, Foot Wheel
- Wrestling: Leg Trip, Foot Sweep Counter
Description
Ashi Guruma is a dynamic Judo throwing technique where the tori (executor) uses their leg as a fulcrum to wheel the uke (opponent) over in a circular motion. The technique involves blocking the opponent's leg just below the knee while using rotational body movement to complete the throw. This is one of the original 40 throws developed by Jigoro Kano and belongs to the Ashi-waza (foot techniques) classification.
Common Applications
Ashi Guruma is particularly effective when:
- Countering an opponent's forward momentum
- The opponent is resisting backward movement
- Other throwing techniques are challenging due to opponent's stance
- Transitioning from failed technique attempts
- Creating openings through timing and leverage rather than pure strength