How to Do the Tani Otoshi in BJJ
Tani otoshi (valley drop) is a sacrifice throw where you drop to your side behind them and pull them over your extended leg. It's excellent when opponents circle away.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 As they step around, drop to your side
- 2 Extend your leg behind both their legs
- 3 Pull them over your body
- 4 Your hip hits the ground as they fall
- 5 Roll to top position
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Dropping without pulling
- ⚠️ Leg not behind both their legs
- ⚠️ Falling straight down instead of to side
- ⚠️ Not following through to top
- ⚠️ Telegraphing the technique
🔄 Variations
- → Standing tani otoshi
- → Yoko otoshi
- → From failed throw attempt
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Jump over the leg
- → Sit back before they drop
- → Counter throw
Track Your Tani Otoshi Progress
Log every time you practice the Tani Otoshi and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Takedowns
View all →Double Leg Takedown
The double leg is a fundamental wrestling takedown adapted for BJJ. You shoot in, grab both legs, an...
Single Leg Takedown
The single leg takedown targets one of your opponent's legs. It's lower risk than the double leg for...
Osoto Gari
Osoto gari (major outer reap) is a fundamental judo throw that works great in BJJ. You reap your opp...
Guard Pull
The guard pull is a fundamental technique in sport BJJ that allows you to establish your guard game ...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Tani Otoshi? ▼
The Tani Otoshi is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Tani Otoshi works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Tani Otoshi? ▼
The Tani Otoshi is typically executed from standing. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.