Here Kanamaru demonstrates two different stepping patterns; ayumi-ashi on the left and tsugi-ashi on the right. At first glance, they may not look too different, but for judo tsugi-ashi is a much more functional way to move around the tatami. It is very important that judoka know the difference between the two styles of movement and the reasons why one is preferred over the other.

Ayumi-ashi is the ordinary pattern of walking where the feet are constantly passing one another. The feet lifts slightly from the tatami when taking a step. Maximizing contact with the tatami and having an uncompromised base of support are essential in judo so ayumi-ashi is regarded as bad practice.

With tsugi-ashi, the trailing foot moves up to the lead foot, which then allows the lead foot to step again. In this pattern, the feet move by sliding across the tatami maintaining as much contact as possible. Tsugi-ashi benefits your judo as it promotes movements initiating from the hips.

The feet do not need to cross and contact with the tatami is maximized. Here we see some free movement with a partner. Although it is hard to perform tsugi-ashi when another judoka is introduced, the aim is for it to form the foundations of your movement.

If tsugi-ashi is performed correctly the leg should always have a slight bend. This means they can absorb the majority of any force or momentum and be ready to react to any threats. The hips and therefore the center of mass remain at a relatively consistent level making the fighter a lot more difficult to throw.

To highlight the differing effects of the ayumi and tsugi-ashi stepping patterns observe the sideways motion leading to an okuri-ashi-barai attack. In this first example, Uki uses ayumi-ashi losing contact with the tatami with each step and raising their center of balance. This makes them much easier to throw.

Now the sliding characteristics of tsugi-ashi, Uki keeps constant contact with the tatami. Their legs are bent and their center of mass stays consistent and low. Kanamaru now finds it a lot harder to throw