[T10.06] Osoto-guruma: (Major Outer Wheel)

Translation: (O) major, (Soto) outer, (guruma) wheel

This throw is also applicable from close quarters in range two where you’re struggling for an opening. In this throw you reap both of uke’s legs. This throw is more difficult than Osoto-gari, and is called a wheel throw, but it is more devastating than reaping a single leg.  

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

AOKK Category:

• Reaps

Opening Technique:

Grasp uke’s wrist/sleeve/elbow and lapel while in the clinch position.  Push backwards and pull uke forwards and downwards until they pull backwards. You can also trap the adversary’s elbow and strike the opponent with a palm heel or forearm (ridge-hand strike) to set up the throw. The goal is to get their head and shoulders to move backwards in the direction of the throw.

Execution:

• Pull uke downwards with both hands, and when uke pulls back push up with the hand controlling the lapel or neck.
• Step behind the opponent and place your leg behind both of uke’s.
• The key is to torque uke’s shoulders in a circular motion using your leg as a fulcrum to throw them backwards.

Note: While in a clinch, you can pull uke forwards while you’re stepping forwards, with your plant leg, to get into position to make the throw.  If you have the weight advantage, that makes it easier to facilitate the throw. When uke pulls backwards to regain control, twist uke’s upper body and reap both legs to make the throw.

Note: This is the wheel portion of the throw as opposed to a reap.

Grips:

1. The traditional judo grip is left hand on uke’s right sleeve and your right hand on uke’s left lapel. Remember to bend your elbow to lift uke and pull him/her in tight.
2. You can also use and under hook. Hook your right arm under uke’s left armpit. Grip uke’s right sleeve, elbow, or wrist with your left hand.
3. You can also reach around with your right hand and grasp the side of uke’s belt. Lift up with the right hand. Grip uke’s right sleeve or wrist with your left hand and pull him/her sideways.
4. You can also pin uke’s elbow and pull downwards while reaching around uke’s head and neck with your other hand. This should be some type of blow to move him/her onto one leg while pulling with your left hand.

Counter:

• Do not let your head get pushed backwards. Keep your upper-body forwards and throw the attacker with Osoto-otoshi, Osoto-gari, or Osoto-guruma when they attempt the throw.

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.