Kouchi Gari Deep Dive: Advanced Variations and Applications

Kouchi Gari is a staple in every judoka’s arsenal—but how do you go beyond the basics and make it a true weapon? In this advanced breakdown, Shintaro Higashi shares multiple variations, tactical setups, and creative applications that will elevate your game, whether you’re on the judo mat or the BJJ tatami.

Watch the full video here ↓

Why Kouchi Gari Matters

Kouchi Gari (small inner reap) is deceptively simple, but the timing, pressure, and combinations you use can make all the difference. Shintaro’s approach blends classic judo with modern grappling, making these techniques effective for both competitive judo and jiu-jitsu.

“I’m going to show you a bunch of Kouchi Garis today… multiple types, timing-based, pressure-based, and even some BJJ favorites.”

1. Timing-Based Kouchi Gari

The classic version relies on catching your opponent’s foot as it lands:

“Foot’s coming down—one, two, foot’s coming in—you catch the foot and then you take it down this way. Really, really simple timing-based Kouchi.”

This variation is all about anticipation and rhythm. Catch the foot as it lands lightly—if you’re too late and the weight is already on it, you’ll need to adapt.

2. Pressure & Driving Kouchi Gari

What if you miss the timing and your opponent’s weight is already on the foot?

“If the timing is mistimed, the weight’s already on that foot… I’m going to drive this shin over his ankle. If he doesn’t do anything, I’ll put a lot of pressure on this bone—he’s going to not like it, he’ll step back. Now I put the feet together and finish with a simple Ouchi.”

This is a more aggressive, pressure-driven Kouchi, using your shin to force a reaction and set up a follow-up attack.

3. Forced Unweighting & Hybrid Setups

You don’t have to wait for your opponent to step; you can create the opening yourself:

“I force this unweighted leg. I pull my elbow down, weight this back step, so now this leg is much lighter. Step to the outside, keep his weight on the collar, lift the leg, pull the foot back, and take my opponent down.”

This proactive approach lets you dictate the tempo and direction of the exchange.

4. BJJ Favorite: Kouchi Gake to Rear Naked Choke

For BJJ athletes, Kouchi Gari can be a direct entry to the back or submission:

“The jiu-jitsu guy’s favorite—Kouchi Gake to the rear naked choke. Good for judo, now wazari, lock a mate on the foot, then you set up seoi nage.”

This hybrid move is especially effective if you’re losing and need a surprise attack or want to blend drop attacks for synergy.

5. Combining Kouchi Gari with Drop Attacks

Shintaro highlights the synergy between Kouchi Gari and drop seoi nage:

“You go Kouchi and now you have two drop attacks working together. It’s a little bit of a synergy thing happening.”

Mixing these attacks keeps your opponent guessing and creates more opportunities for scoring.

Pro Tips & Takeaways

• Adapt to the Situation: Timing, pressure, and forced setups all have their place—know when to use each.

• Think Combinations: Don’t rely on Kouchi Gari alone; blend it with other attacks for maximum effect.

• BJJ Crossovers: Use Kouchi as an entry to the back or submissions in jiu-jitsu.

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