Uki Goshi

From Red River Judo
Uki Goshi
File:Uki Goshi.jpg
General information
DomainTachi-Waza
ClassificationNage-Waza
Sub-ClassificationKoshi-Waza
KodokanYes
GroupingDai-Ikkyo
ComplexityTech-Beginner
ArcsRotation over oblique axis while pushing
Technique name
Japanese浮腰
EnglishFloating hip throw
Half-hip throw
Korean허리 띄기

Uki Goshi (浮腰) is one of the original 40 throws of Judo as developed by Jigoro Kano. It belongs to the first group, Dai Ikkyo, of the traditional throwing list, Gokyo (no waza), of Kodokan Judo. It is also part of the current 67 Throws of Kodokan Judo. It is classified as a hip technique, Koshi-Waza. Uki goshi is known as a favorite throw of Jigoro Kano himself. It is demonstrated in the Nage no Kata. It used to be much drilled in traditional judo dojos.

Description

Uki Goshi, also known as floating hip, is a type of hip throw. To execute the throw, the person throwing (known as tori) pulls the person being thrown, (known as uke) up and forward putting them off balance. Tori places uke round his/her back while turning so that the side of his/her hip is in close contact with uke and pulling uke's arm around. Tori then twists uke around using tori's back and hip as a pivot point.

Tori's leading leg barely blocks uke's leading leg and tori is initially slightly sideways to uke rather than completely giving his back. It relies on a high level of skill but can be used more easily against heavier people than O Goshi.

Execution

Kuzushi (Off-Balancing)

Grip and Initial Movement:

Start with a standard grip: one hand gripping uke's collar and the other on the sleeve.

Step slightly diagonally forward with your dominant foot (the side of your gripping hand on uke's collar), pulling uke in the direction of their toes. This shifts uke's balance forward and toward the side you intend to throw. Off-Balancing Direction:

Pull with your sleeve hand to stretch uke’s arm forward and slightly upward. Use your collar hand to control uke’s posture, ensuring their upper body rotates slightly toward you. Body Movement:

Your movement should blend with uke's momentum. Keep your balance while turning your hips in alignment with uke's, ready for the entry.

Tsukuri (Entry/Preparation)

Pivot and Position:

Rotate your body toward uke by pivoting on the ball of your lead foot. Place your hips just slightly in front of uke’s, aligning your hips lower than theirs but not too deep (unlike O-Goshi).

Foot Placement:

Your non-dominant foot steps slightly behind uke’s feet, parallel to their stance.

Your lead foot (dominant side) should be between their legs, allowing your hip to act as a fulcrum.

Hip and Upper Body Setup:

Pull uke’s sleeve hand tight across your body while the collar hand continues rotating their torso.

Your hips must be close enough to uke to create leverage but not so deep that you carry their full weight.

Kake (Execution)

Turn and Lift:

Once in position, use your hips as a pivot point. Slightly lift uke by extending your legs and rotating your hips.

Keep pulling with your sleeve hand while rotating with your collar hand to initiate the throw.

Throwing Motion:

Rotate your body smoothly while guiding uke over your hip. The movement should feel like uke is floating or rolling off your hip—not forced.

Finish by maintaining control of uke's descent, ensuring a safe fall.

Demonstration