Harai Goshi:

As a player I found Uke trying to "weight" my arms down so I could not  apply "kuzushi". Over the years I adapted the attacking motion of Harai Goshi by rocking Uke to his left leg. This Renraku action made Uke adjust his weight to the right leg which enabled me to step back  into the throw by placing my left foot to the left of his left foot.  This powerful turning action enabled my Harai Goshi to be utilized with little effort by using Uke's weight and strength against him. Note: You may find that you may be open for a counter with Osoto Gari or Attack Tani Otoshi etc. but this is not true as Uke's right leg is helplessly behind him and out of range for any viable counter attack.

I backed up Harai Goshi with this initial motion with Harai Makikomi, Uchi Mata, Hane Goshi, Oguruma and a devastating Yoko Osoto Gari or Ken Ken Osoto Gari.

Often I would step in and twist the other way into an enjoyable Harai Tsurikomi Ashi. Watching Uke go over with this initial motion was more surprising in a humble way as my first reaction was "O my, I did that?"

By daring yourself to try techniques at different angles offers possibilities that may surprise you enabling you to enjoy judo even more. Remember, this initial entry is crucial.

There are two initial grips: one on the end of the sleeve and the other on the lapel. I prefer lapel so I can go right and left.