Kosoto Gari (Minor Outer Reap) is a fundamental judo-derived foot sweep that has become essential in modern BJJ’s standing game. Unlike explosive forward throws, Kosoto Gari capitalizes on subtle weight distribution, timing, and off-balancing to sweep the opponent’s weight-bearing leg from beneath them. The technique combines a pulling motion with upper body control while simultaneously reaping the opponent’s heel backward and upward. This creates a powerful rotation that deposits the opponent on their back, allowing immediate transition to dominant positions like side control or knee on belly. The beauty of Kosoto Gari lies in its mechanical efficiency - it requires minimal strength when executed with proper timing, making it accessible to practitioners of all sizes. The technique is particularly effective against opponents who resist forward throws by posting their weight backward, as this natural defensive reaction places them perfectly into Kosoto Gari’s zone of vulnerability. In competition, Kosoto Gari scores as a throw and frequently results in immediate positional dominance, making it a high-percentage technique for gi and no-gi contexts alike.
From Position: Standing Position (Top)
Key Attacking Principles
What are the key principles for executing Kosoto Gari?
- Break opponent’s balance to rear corner (45-degree angle)
- Control opponent’s upper body with strong collar and sleeve grips
- Attack the weight-bearing leg at precisely the right moment
- Combine pulling action with foot sweep in coordinated motion
- Maintain forward pressure while sweeping backward
- Follow opponent to ground for immediate top position
- Use opponent’s resistance as fuel for the throw
Prerequisites
What do you need before attempting Kosoto Gari?
- Establish strong collar grip with pulling hand
- Control opponent’s sleeve or tricep with opposite hand
- Opponent’s weight must be committed to rear leg
- Create forward-then-backward kuzushi (off-balancing) pattern
- Position your reaping foot near opponent’s heel
- Maintain upright posture for maximum pulling power
Execution Steps
How do you execute Kosoto Gari step by step?
- Establish grips: Secure deep collar grip with your right hand, fingers inside opponent’s collar at neck level. Left hand controls opponent’s right sleeve at elbow or tricep. Grips must be tight enough to control movement but relaxed enough to allow explosive pulling action.
- Create initial off-balance: Pull opponent forward and slightly to their right front corner using both grips. This creates initial reaction where opponent posts weight backward to resist. Watch for their weight to shift predominantly to their right leg - this is your attack signal.
- Step to optimal angle: Step your left foot forward and outside opponent’s right foot, positioning yourself at approximately 45-degree angle to their body. Your left foot should be toe-to-toe with their right foot, creating the geometric foundation for the sweep.
- Execute simultaneous pull and sweep: Explosively pull opponent’s upper body down and toward their right rear corner with both hands while simultaneously sweeping your right foot backward against the heel of their right foot. The sweep motion should be low to the ground, catching their heel and driving upward and backward. Your right leg acts like a hook pulling their support out from under them.
- Maintain forward pressure: As opponent falls backward, maintain constant forward pressure with your upper body, driving through their center line. Your chest should be pushing forward even as your sweeping leg pulls backward. This opposing force creates the rotation that puts opponent flat on their back.
- Follow to top position: As opponent hits the mat, immediately step over or around their legs to establish side control or knee on belly. Do not let go of collar grip - use it to control their upper body and prevent escape attempts. Your left hand releases sleeve to post on mat for base.
- Consolidate position: Settle your weight into side control, cross-facing with your right arm while establishing underhook or hip control with your left. Ensure your hips are heavy and your chest is driving into opponent’s sternum. Immediately begin working toward submissions or advancing to mount.
Possible Outcomes
| Result | Position | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Success | Side Control | 65% |
| Failure | Standing Position | 25% |
| Counter | Standing Position | 10% |
Opponent Counters
How might your opponent counter Kosoto Gari?
- Opponent steps back with attacked leg before sweep makes contact (Effectiveness: High) - Your Response: Chain immediately to Kouchi Gari (attacking opposite leg) or Deashi Harai (pursuing their retreating foot). Maintain collar grip and continue off-balancing pattern. → Leads to Standing Position
- Opponent drives forward aggressively to counter backward pull (Effectiveness: Medium) - Your Response: Switch to forward throw like Tai Otoshi or Uchi Mata, using their forward momentum against them. This is reactive rather than resistant - flow with their energy. → Leads to Standing Position
- Opponent widens stance and lowers center of gravity to create stable base (Effectiveness: Medium) - Your Response: Create multiple off-balancing attempts in different directions to force weight shifts. Attack when they inevitably transfer weight to make adjustment. Alternatively, drop for single leg or ankle pick. → Leads to Standing Position
- Opponent breaks your collar grip before you can execute throw (Effectiveness: High) - Your Response: Immediately re-establish grip or transition to wrestling-based attacks (single leg, double leg). Never allow extended period without upper body control. → Leads to Standing Position
Safety Considerations
What are the safety concerns for Kosoto Gari?
When practicing Kosoto Gari, both partners must maintain control throughout the falling motion to prevent injury. The person being thrown should practice proper ukemi (breakfall) by slapping the mat with their arm to dissipate impact force and protect their head. Never release grips completely during static drilling as this can cause uncontrolled falls. When drilling at speed, use crash mats or soft surfaces until breakfall mechanics are reflexive. Avoid practicing on hard surfaces until both partners have developed proper falling technique. If you feel yourself being thrown and cannot escape, do not attempt to post with extended arm as this can cause elbow, wrist, or shoulder injuries. Instead, tuck chin to chest and execute proper breakfall. Beginners should practice falling mechanics separately before integrating live throws.