Kouchi and Kosoto: It's the "Little" things

Simple, low risk foot sweeps Part 2.

Just a heads up… The contents of this email here led to so many quick/advantageous starts in competition. And if you’ve been following along, you can probably understand why: Low Risk, High Reward.

This is the nature of my jiu-jitsu. Low risk, high reward. I think all the cool, flashy stuff has its place but the reality is, if you want simplified and optimized training to help you level up, it’s really about the most effective AND efficient techniques that will propel you further.

The flashy stuff is for fun. The simple stuff is for excellence.

Now, what does this email have to do beyond high ROI?

Over the last few weeks, I’ve led you on the amazing journey of foot sweeps. I love foot sweeps. In my opinion, there are few things in life as beautiful as a well-executed foot sweep.

First we talked about engagement from standing.

In the standing position, we are looking to make contact and off-balance immediately.

Sometimes, however, your partner has good balance and it’s up to you to manipulate it more furtively and technically. This is where foot sweeps come in.

If you can learn how to use foot sweeps effectively, you have a higher chance of getting your opponent off-balance. This is usually the WORST case scenario.

The best case? You get your takedown without using too much energy or risking to your position.
Now, the biggest challenge with foot sweeps, especially for beginners is timing. They require a LOT of practice and feel. This is why last week I went HEAVY into walking mechanics. If you missed that post, check it here.

Before continuing, I strongly suggest you review that video before moving on. The first video in the email especially will go over how to leverage walking mechanics for your Kouchi (Little Inside Reap) and Kosoto (Little Outside Reap).

As their names imply, they’re small movements. I use them a lot and even if I don’t get my takedowns, they set me up for success by allowing me to off-balance my opponent much easier which leads to secondary attacks.

PLUS, as you’ll see in the videos: You can even catch them with very minimal contact :)

Alright, let’s dive in!