Top 5 Judo Throws Every Beginner Should Learn: Starting judo can feel a little tough at first, but this article is here to guide you through the essential judo throws that work well in both street fights and competitions. You’ll also get an introduction to the judo competition system, perfect if you’re considering taking up judo as a sport.
Judo stands out as one of the top martial arts for self-defense, particularly due to its practicality in real-life confrontations. The term “Judo” translates to “gentle way” in English, which reflects how its throwing techniques leverage an opponent’s momentum and turn it to your advantage.
5 Best Judo Throws for Self-Defense (Nage Waza)
There are three main classifications of judo techniques:
- Throwing
- Grappling
- Vital-striking points
This article highlights various throwing techniques that are beneficial for both self-defense situations and competitive events.
1. Osoto Gari
The term Osoto Gari means “large outer reap” in English. This throw is one of the foundational techniques in Judo and is often employed against bigger opponents by taking advantage of your lower center of gravity. To execute the Osoto Gari:
- Position your hands effectively on your opponent.
- When you’re in the fighting stance, place your right foot right between your opponent’s legs that are spread apart.
- Step your left foot forward at a 45-degree angle to the left. This action will encourage your opponent to shift their weight onto the foot you plan to sweep.
- Move your right foot back to connect with your opponent’s foot and execute a sweeping action. Make sure the sweep originates from your hip rotation.
2. Ouchi Gari
The term Ouchi Gari means “inner reap” in English, contrasting with the Osoto Gari. These techniques are not only simple but also pave the way for more intricate strategies. The perfect time to apply this move is when your opponent diverts their attention from their footing, even if just for a moment. To carry out the Ouchi Gari:
- Gently tug the opponent towards you to catch their attention for a brief moment.
- If you find yourself surprised, use your right hand to grab the opponent’s shirt and pull it down and away from you at a diagonal angle. This action will throw them off balance and lead to a backward fall.
- As you tug on his shirt, take a step forward by about 3 to 5 inches.
- Quickly position your lead foot behind your opponent’s foot to trip them up.
3. Deashi Harai
Deashi Harai is one of the oldest techniques in judo. This sideways throw is typically used when an opponent is attempting to pull you with force. Here’s how to perform Deashi Harai:
- When your attacker attempts to draw you closer, take a step back.
- When he makes another move to close the distance and is gearing up to pull you in, that’s your cue to start the foot sweep.
- Once your opponent’s foot hits the ground, step your foot to the outside and take their legs out from under them with a sweep.
- As you perform this move, rotate your hips to pull the shoulder that’s closest to the foot being swept in line with it, while pushing the opposite shoulder back. This action acts like a lever, enhancing your chances of successfully taking down the attacker.
4. Uki Goshi
Uki Goshi is a hip toss technique that works wonders, especially when you’re up against a stronger opponent. To pull it off successfully, you need to act swiftly, making it easier to flip your opponent over your hip. Keep an eye out, though, as they might try to counter by climbing onto your back during the move. Here are the steps to perform an Uki Goshi to throw your opponent to the left.
- As you step back, when the chance arises, pivot your body 90 degrees to the left. Wrap your arm around your attacker’s waist.
- Gently draw your opponent’s left hand towards you while twisting your hips in the opposite direction.
- While doing this, slowly bring your hips up and then your heel.
- To ensure the move is effective, all these steps should be executed in one smooth motion.
5. Seoi Nage
The Seoi Nage technique involves using both hands to disrupt your opponent’s balance. This forward judo throw is primarily based on hip rotation and the positioning of your arms. Not only is Seoi Nage a highly effective maneuver in a street fight, but it’s also a favorite throw in Judo competitions. Here are the steps for executing the throw against an opponent’s right hand.
- Use your left hand to grab the enemy’s right hand and pull it towards you.
- Gently pull his hand while turning your hips to the left.
- While rotating your hips, slide your right hand underneath your opponent’s arm.
- As you twist more to your left, draw in gently.
- Lift your heel just a little as you straighten your back to match his front.
- The action needs to be executed quickly and smoothly.
Basic Rules of Judo Martial Arts
If you’re thinking about taking up Judo as a sport, it’s great to know that it’s part of the Olympic Games! Judo made its Olympic debut in the 1964 Tokyo Games. While Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu share many techniques, the rules governing Judo in the Olympics are distinct.
Leg-grabs are not allowed in judo competitions, leading to fewer schools offering training in these techniques. This is mainly due to the fact that they often result in typical judo injuries.
Uniform
Anyone participating in judo as a sport is required to wear a gi. This traditional uniform, which has its roots in the kimono, has been embraced by the martial art as its official attire. The gi needs to be sturdy, and its sleeves and pants should not extend more than 5 cm above the wrists and ankles. Additionally, practitioners should wear their belts, which should be fastened with the classic knot.
Combat Area
Judo competitions take place on special mats known as tatami. These mats are 14 meters by 14 meters, with the actual fighting area measuring 10 meters by 10 meters. Before stepping onto the mat, all participants are required to bow as a sign of respect.
Judo Throws Conclusion
Training in judo for self-defense not only equips you with the skills to safeguard yourself but also fosters self-discipline and promotes a healthier way of living. This compilation of judo techniques will boost your street fighting intelligence and provide you with practical skills for various scenarios. If you’re keen on exploring SDHjudo, some schools offer complimentary judo lessons for the initial sessions.