Yoko Otoshi

Yoko Otoshi
General information
Domain	Tachi-Waza
Classification	Sutemi-Waza
Sub-Classification	Yoko-Sutemi-Waza
Kodokan	Yes
Grouping	Dai-Sankyo
Variations	Tama Guruma
Related	Drop Kata Guruma Yoko Wakare
Complexity	Tech-Intermediate
Arcs	Spiral in
Technique name
Rōmaji	Yoko otoshi
Japanese	横落
English	Side drop
Korean	옆으로 떨어 뜨리기

Yoko Otoshi (横落), also known as the "Side Drop," 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 also part of the current 67 Throws of Kodokan Judo. Yoko Otoshi is classified as a side sacrifice technique (Yoko-sutemi-waza).

Technique

Yoko Otoshi involves breaking the opponent's balance to the side and then dropping to the side to execute the throw. The technique is executed as follows:

1. Grip: The tori (the person executing the throw) grips the uke (the person being thrown) with a standard grip, typically holding the sleeve and collar.
2. Positioning: The tori steps to the side, pulling the uke forward and off-balance to the side.
3. Dropping: The tori drops to their side, extending their leg to block the uke's leg and using their body weight to throw the uke sideways.

Key Points

• The tori must ensure that the uke's balance is broken to the side.
• The dropping motion should be smooth and coordinated with the pulling action of the hands.
• Proper timing and positioning are crucial for the effectiveness of the throw.

Variations

There are several variations of Yoko Otoshi, including:

• Yoko Wakare: A side separation throw where the tori drops to the side while pulling the uke in the opposite direction.

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.