Kata Guruma

From Red River Judo
Kata Guruma
File:Kata guruma.jpg
General information
DomainTachi-Waza
ClassificationNage-Waza
Sub-ClassificationTe-Waza
KodokanYes
IJF LegalNo
GroupingDai-Sankyo
VariationsKata Guruma (Kneeling)
RelatedFireman's Carry
ComplexityTech-Advanced
ArcsVertical Circle
Technique name
RōmajiKata-guruma
Japanese肩車
EnglishShoulder wheel
Korean어깨로 메치기

Kata Guruma (肩車), or "Shoulder Wheel," is one of the original 40 throws of Judo developed by Jigoro Kano. It belongs to the third group, Sankyo, of the traditional throwing list, Gokyo (no waza), of Kodokan Judo. It is classified as a hand technique (Te-Waza).

A traditional Kata Guruma requires a leg grab while pulling uke across the shoulders. This traditional version is no longer legal in IJF competition, but several variations have been developed to keep the technique active on the international Judo stage.

Concept

Kata Guruma involves lifting the opponent onto the shoulders and throwing them down in a wheel-like motion. The tori (the person executing the throw) uses their hands to lift the uke (the person being thrown) and rotate them over the shoulders.

Technique

  1. Grip: The tori grips the uke's sleeve and collar.
  2. Positioning: The tori pulls the uke forward to break their balance.
  3. Lifting: The tori bends their knees and lifts the uke onto their shoulders.
  4. Throwing: The tori rotates and throws the uke over their shoulders in a wheel-like motion.

Key Points

  • Break the uke's balance forward.
  • Coordinate the lifting motion with the rotation.
  • Ensure the grip is secure to control the uke during the throw.

References

  • Kano, Jigoro. Kodokan Judo: The Essential Guide to Judo by Its Founder. Kodansha International, 1986.
  • Mifune, Kyuzo. The Canon of Judo: Classic Teachings on Principles and Techniques. Kodansha International, 2004.

Demonstration