Below is a full, well-structured article based on the judo techniques illustrated in the image.
Judo, founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882, is a martial art that emphasizes balance, leverage, and the efficient use of energy. Central to its practice are nage-waza—throwing techniques that allow a judoka to off-balance and project an opponent to the ground.
The image above presents nine classic judo throws, many of which appear in the original Gokyo no Waza, Judo’s formal syllabus. This article explains each technique, its key mechanics, and where it fits within the art of Judo.
1. De-Ashi-Barai (Advanced Foot Sweep)
Category: Ashi-waza (foot techniques)
De-Ashi-Barai is one of judo’s most fluid throws. The attacker (tori) sweeps the opponent’s (uke’s) forward-moving foot at the precise moment weight is shifting. Timing is crucial—unlike many throws requiring full body commitment, this one uses minimal force. It is often taught early because it teaches control of distance, rhythm, and kuzushi (off-balance).
2. Harai-Goshi (Sweeping Hip Throw)
Category: Koshi-waza (hip techniques)
Harai-Goshi is a powerful hip throw where tori turns in, fits the hip across uke’s center of gravity, and sweeps the opponent’s leg outward with a large, circular motion. It is excellent for countering aggressive forward pressure and is widely used in competition due to its dynamic nature.
3. Uchi-Mata (Inner Thigh Throw)
Category: Ashi/Koshi-waza hybrid
Often considered one of the most iconic judo throws, Uchi-Mata involves lifting uke with the hip and sweeping the inner thigh upward. It requires balance, flexibility, and superb timing. The throw is especially effective against opponents who stand upright or push forward.
4. O-Soto-Gari (Major Outer Reap)
Category: Ashi-waza
O-Soto-Gari is a fundamental reaping throw where tori drives uke backward while sweeping the opponent’s leg from the outside. It is direct, strong, and relatively easy to learn. Its effectiveness makes it a staple of self-defense and competitive judo alike.
5. Tai-Otoshi (Body Drop)
Category: Te-waza (hand techniques)
Tai-Otoshi is a hand technique that uses a blocking leg instead of a sweeping one. Tori pulls uke forward and across an extended leg, causing the opponent to pivot and fall. It relies on leverage rather than strength, making it a favorite of lighter fighters who rely on precise timing.
6. Ko-Uchi-Gari (Minor Inner Reap)
Category: Ashi-waza
Ko-Uchi-Gari targets the smaller inside step or retreating foot. Tori reaps uke’s heel from the inside while driving their weight forward. This technique links well with other attacks, making it useful in combination sequences or as a counter.
7. O-Uchi-Gari (Major Inner Reap)
Category: Ashi-waza
This throw complements Ko-Uchi-Gari by targeting a deeper inner sweep. Tori moves inside uke’s stance and reaps the leg backward, using upper-body pressure to force uke into a backward fall. It is common in both traditional judo and modern competition due to its stability and control.
8. Seoi-Nage (Shoulder Throw)
Category: Te-waza
One of the most widely recognized throws in the world, Seoi-Nage involves tori turning under uke’s arm, lifting with the back and shoulder, and projecting uke forward. Variations include Ippon Seoi-Nage and Morote Seoi-Nage. This technique demands speed, hip rotation, and tight control of uke’s arm.
9. Sasae-Tsuri-Komi-Ashi (Propping and Lifting-Pulling Foot Technique)
Category: Ashi-waza
This technique uses a lifting-pulling action combined with a foot block. Tori pulls uke forward while placing a foot against uke’s ankle or shin, “propping” them and causing them to pivot and fall. It is subtle but extremely effective when executed with proper kuzushi.
Conclusion
These nine techniques represent a cross-section of judo’s diverse throwing arsenal—spanning foot sweeps, hip throws, and hand techniques. Each teaches important principles of timing, balance, and efficient movement. Whether for beginners building foundational skills or advanced practitioners refining classic techniques, these throws are essential study for anyone serious about Judo.
If you’d like, I can also create:
✅ Individual technique breakdowns
✅ A training plan using these throws
✅ A printable poster-style description
✅ Competition strategies involving combinations and counters
Just tell me what you’d like next!
