How to Do a Judo Throw

Judo is called the “gentle art,” however, for those who actually train in it, judo is anything but gentle. Hard throws, tugging, colliding, the potential for injury, joint wrenching submission holds and choking are all but easy on the body. The gentle connotation comes from Judo’s prime tenant--maximum efficiency with minimum effort--that is, use your opponent’s own energy to throw him, which makes things easier for you. The lack of struggle and focus on flow that should happen in an ideal situation is why judo is considered gentle; striking is not allowed and force meeting force is contradictory to the prime tenant. In this article, one judo throw will be covered--tomoe nage.

Instructions

1. Grip your opponent’s gi in any manner that works best for you and take a deep penetration step between your opponent’s legs.

2. Sit straight down as you take the step, falling to your buttocks. This creates the kazushi, or off-balance that you need to perform this throw.

3. Place your rear foot in your opponent’s midsection as you are sitting and your opponent is being drawn forward.

4. As you come into contact with the ground, pull your opponent’s gi and extend your leg. If done correctly, your opponent will sail overhead.

Tips & Warnings

• Judo techniques can be dangerous and should not be practiced without proper supervision.