O Soto Guruma
O Soto Guruma | |
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General information | |
Domain | Tachi-Waza |
Classification | Nage-Waza |
Sub-Classification | Ashi-Waza |
Kodokan | Yes |
IJF Legal | Yes |
Grouping | Dai-Gokyo |
Related | O Soto Gari |
Complexity | Intermediate |
Arcs | Retreating |
Technique name | |
Rōmaji | Osoto guruma |
Japanese | 大外車 |
English | Major outer wheel |
Korean | 두밭다리 걸기 |
O Soto Guruma (大外車), or "Large Outer Wheel," is a powerful throwing technique in Judo. It is part of the Nage-Waza (throwing techniques) category and specifically classified under Ashi-Waza (foot techniques). O Soto Guruma is similar to O Soto Gari, but in this case, both of uke’s legs are swept at the same time, making it a larger and more forceful throw.
Classification
O Soto Guruma belongs to the Ashi-Waza group of Judo techniques. This means that the primary action used to throw uke comes from a sweeping motion of the leg. It is also considered a basic technique because it teaches students how to unbalance and sweep uke with precision.
Technique Breakdown
- Start by gripping uke's sleeve and lapel. From this position, you will initiate kuzushi (off-balancing) by pulling uke’s upper body slightly backward, making them lean onto their heels.
- Step in with your right foot to the outside of uke’s right foot, creating a stable base.
- Your left leg then swings around and sweeps across both of uke’s legs at the knee, while your hands continue to pull uke’s upper body backward.
- As the sweep is performed, tori drives through with their body, creating a "wheel" motion that brings uke crashing to the mat, landing on their back.
Key Points for Beginners
- Kuzushi is essential. You must properly unbalance uke by pulling their upper body backward before attempting the sweep. Without proper kuzushi, the throw will be difficult to complete.
- Stay close to uke. O Soto Guruma is most effective when you maintain a strong grip and body control throughout the technique.
- Sweep with your entire leg, not just your foot. The power comes from using your leg like a pendulum to sweep both of uke’s legs.
- Uke should practice falling safely, landing on their back with a strong slap of the mat to absorb the impact.
Common Mistakes
- Not creating enough kuzushi. If you don’t pull uke’s upper body effectively, the throw becomes much harder to execute.
- Sweeping too low. Remember to sweep uke’s legs at the knee or higher to break their balance.
- Focusing only on the legs. The hands are just as important in this technique. Make sure to pull uke’s upper body at the same time as you sweep.
Application in Training
O Soto Guruma is a great technique for beginners because it teaches how to combine kuzushi with a powerful leg sweep. It can be used in both training and competition as an effective and direct throw. It also builds on the principles learned in throws like O Soto Gari and can be used as a counter to various attacks.
References
- Kodokan Judo by Jigoro Kano
- The Canon of Judo by Kyuzo Mifune
- Judo Training Methods by Takahiko Ishikawa and Donn F. Draeger
Demonstration