[T8.04] Utsuri-goshi: (Changing Hip Throw)

Translation: (Utsuri) Changing, (goshi) hip

This is a throw that is a counter to a hip throw. Judoka use a lot of hip throwing techniques. Wrestlers do not. That is why it is so important to be able to recognize the opponent’s fighting strength. Don’t clinch with a judoka or go the mat with a wrestler. Don’t punch with a boxer or karateka, but on the occasion, if you’re caught by the judoka, you must know how to counter their throw. The hand check on uke’s hip is the first step to stopping this throw, but next you need to make a counter throw or escape. This is one of those counters.

Important: Honestly, I have never seen anyone use this technique, so I spoke with sensei Alguire and he too has never seen this technique used in any competition. After a long discussion, as to whether we should remove it from the AOKK curriculum or teach it, sensei Alguire suggested we keep it and teach it to the higher ranks. It was in my notes, so someone thought it was a good technique.

Warning: Do not attempt these techniques without a qualified AOKK instructor’s supervision.

AOKK Category:

Hip Throws

Opening Techniques:

This throw is a counter to an attacker’s attempt to deliver a hip throw of one kind or another.

Execution:

Hip check uke when they try and throw you with a reap or any throw where they turn their back to you.
Once you and uke are facing the same direction as they try to deliver the throw, simply hip check the technique and create a little distance.
Wrap your arms around his waist.
Grasp his/her obi (belt).
Step in front of him/her if you’re still behind them.
Squat down slightly and lift uke off their feet while throwing them across your hip.

Note: This is a power technique. Women have much greater leg strength than men, so this throw is not an impossibility for them.

Warning: Never go to the ground if there are multiple opponents.

Note: Follow this technique with an arm-bar, mount above the hips, or simply walk away. If you choose the mount, follow immediately with open hand strikes, closed hand strikes, and elbow strikes. In sport you may choose to apply a choke or lock the opponent to gain a submission.