Barron Shepherd Judo: Tsuri Komi Goshi - Lifting Pulling Hip Throw

 Tsurikomi Goshi - Lifting and Pulling Hip Throw, is one of the original 40 throws of Judo as developed by Jigoro Kano. It belongs to the second group, Dai Nikyo, of the traditional throwing list, Gokyo, of Kodokan Judo. It is also part of the current 67 Throws of Kodokan Judo. Tsurikomi Goshi is classified as a hip throwing technique (Koshi-Waza).

Tsuri Komi Goshi - Arm Pit grip Variation

1.) Both players are fighting in a right vs right situation.  

2.) Blue punches a right armpit grip.   

3.) The opponent immediate grips Blue right sleeve reaches for a high collar or back grip with his left. As the opponent starts to reach for the high grip blue pulls with his left hand and brings his right arm under the opponents arm pit as he steps to the inside with his right foot to the inside of the opponent's right foot. The opponent misses his left high grip as blue is moving under it and to the inside. 

4.) Blue starts to pivot on his right foot as his left hand comes up under the opponent's armpit. 

5.) As Blue continues his pull with the left hand he pivots 180 degrees he bring his left foot in line with his right foot. 

6.) Blue straightens his legs popping his hips upward and pulls his left elbow to his left hip turning his upper body counter clockwise to finish the throw.

One Handed Seoi Nage Split Entry Drop Knee

 Without a doubt The CRAZIEST throw in JUDO history is the one handed Seoi nage. The Great Toshiko Koga is renowned for this technique. He hit a standing variation in the 1989 world championships. Since then, the Koreans have some drop knee variations of it as well. 

Designed to catch your opponent off guard, this one handed variation of seoi nage utilizes the split step entry and dropping to the right knee. 

1.) Blue and white are standing with the right foot forward.

2.) White reaches with his right hand attempting to get his grip. Blue parries the grip attempt

3.) Blue immediately punches in a grip with his right hand at white's right lapel. 

4.) Blue's left foot drags up to the back of his right foot as the right foot starts to move forward.

5.) As Blue pivots his right elbow comes up under white's left armpit.  As the right foot enters between white's feet drop to the right knee. (The placement of the knee should be past the toes of the opponent's lead foot.) Blue pulls with his right hand turning his body counter clockwise.  Blue's places his left hand on whites left hand keeping control of it to keep white from cartwheeling out of the throw,

6.) Then the left foot slides back past the right knee for maximum leverage. Bring the right elbow to the left hip turning counter clockwise to finish the throw.

Barron Shepherd Judo - One Handed Technique Series

My specialization and my obsession (LOL) with the one handed style of judo began when I first saw Toshihiko Koga hit a one handed seoi nage in the 89 world judo championships. His dynamic one handed standing seoi-nage captured my imagination. I remember immediately doing my best to replicate it in class after class. Since then it's been a almost 40 journey, a lifestyle dedicated to specializing in that particular method adding more and more to it and to this day continuing to build on it and will probably do so until I die.

There have been few who have used this method. And by few I mean about 4. Not many at all. The master of the one handed Seoi nage was Toshihiko Koga. There are only very few one handed throwers Udo Quelmaz and most recently Soichi Hashimoto and Hifumi Abe (both have a one handed sode tsuri komi goshi). There are indeed a plethora of throws to be executed from a one handed grip. 

Barron Shepherd Judo 

There are three things I say all the time;  

1.) First grip. First attack. Finish and try to look dope while you're doing it.  

2.) Grip fight like a boxer and have footwork like Barry Sanders.  

3.) Anytime judo is used transcend rule, transcend theory and become a demon. 

The one handed style is a dynamic, ballistic and athletic method that is better utilized from a more upright stance, like that of a boxer. Everything about this fighting method of Judo from the stance (false lead) onward is unorthodox and has a distinct purpose. The one handed style catches the opponent off guard. The split stance or split step entry gets the hips under the opponent’s and makes it easy to load him up. Once the opponent is loaded up there’s little he can do to avoid getting thrown.

One handed Ippon Seoi Nage Drill - Split Step Entry

1.) Stand with the right foot forward 2.) Punch in your grip with the left hand.  3.) Pull with your left and and bring your left foot up to your right foot.  

4.) as the left foot comes up toward the top of the triangle pivot slightly toward 6 o'clock as your right foot moves past the base line of the triangle next to the opponent's right foot.  5.) The left foot slides back toward the baseline of the triangle next to the opponent's left foot.  Straighten the legs and pop your hips upward.  6.) Turn your body counter clockwise taking your right elbow to your left hip to finish the throw.

Entering into the Throw with the Rear Foot

In one of his Seoi nage variations Toshihiko Koga would enter into a seoi nage with the rear foot. In this variation of the one handed drill, I am entering into ippon seoi nage with the rear foot using a back step. My rear foot steps behind my lead foot past the base line and to the corner of the triangle. 

Koga variation in competition...........

The following throw is the koga variation that he used used in competition. The rear/right foot steps to the bottom corner of the triangle just inside the opponent's right foot.

The Importance of Taping a Triangle on the Mat.................

If you notice in the pictures I have a triangle taped on the mat with a single straight line taped a foot past the base line of the triangle. Stepping to certain points of the triangle ensures maximum leverage creating a more effortless throw. 

NEXT UP ON TAP: Tsuri Komi Goshi 

Eddie Sebastia, IBJJF Competitor, 62-2 In competition. Purple Belt World Champion, Brown Belt World Champion, Black Belt Pan American Champion, 2023 IBJJF No-Gi World Champion

I have been doing some form of grappling for over 40 years. I started wrestling as a young teenager. I went on to Judo in my later years. After years in this sport, I pursued BJJ. I have achieved the level of a 2-stripe Black Belt. BJJ is where I became a 2 times Masters IBJJF World Champion and 2 times Pan Am Champion and 2023 Masters IBJJF  No-Gi World Champion.

I met Barron after a BJJ tournament in 2022, he was teaching Judo at one of our Carlson Gracie schools. I have been working one on one with Barron, both of us trading knowledge of the different aspects of our particular styles, BJJ and Judo. 

When it comes to judo, I appreciate Barron’s style of teaching, not only with the specific drills that he utilizes to supplement and reinforce his judo techniques, but his overall approach of how to properly execute the techniques. 

One of the things that I especially like about Barron’s style of Judo is his approach to grip fighting and his one-handed style gripping attack. I have implemented this into my game. It has not only helped me with my stand up, but also with my ground game.

Dr. Rich Meagher

I have been doing martial arts for nearly 30 years, and I've never met anyone that can throw like Coach Barron Shepherd. Unlike traditional Judo stylists, Barron doesn't concern himself with complex grips or ideal timing. His focus is on getting the grip that matters and then delivering a ballistic throw. Coach Barron's explosive, dynamic style catches everyone off-guard, no matter if it's a sport or street context. His functional footwork is the Hallmark of his explosive throws. 

Coach Barron is the sole reason I am able to execute Judo throws in a modern, combative situation. The Combat Judo curriculum is an excellent way to introduce students to throws and how to hit them in real altercations. Anyone who can develop at least half of Coach Barron's ballistic, threatening style of Judo, is a force to be reckoned with.

Lauren Meece, 2000 Olympian, Coach, Scouter and Trainer US National Champion Pan Am Games Bronze Medalist 9th place finish – World Championships

Carlson Gracie Winter Haven’s openness to judo is primarily due to Barron Shepherd’s passion to ensure judo is adapted and utilized for their BJJ students. I have traveled all over Central Florida, and while most BJJ and MMA locations seem to discredit judo, (and the overall effectiveness of adapting judo gripping strategies), Barron and his team at Carlson Gracie are the minority that truly understand the value of what judo can bring. 

There are many common misconceptions about the effectiveness of judo, however, it is eye opening to see individuals like Barron and his Carlson Gracie Team continue the legacy of judo and display its relevancy in the world of martial arts. 

Thank you to Barron and Carlson Gracie Winter Haven for ensuring that judo lives on and adapts for the BJJ community to access as well. As judo and BJJ evolves, I see minorities like this becoming pioneers not only in BJJ and judo, but in the overall spectrum of mixed martial arts. 

 

Andrew Kinchen, owner/Head Instructor Carlson Gracie Winter Haven. Instructor Carlson Gracie South Lakeland. Instructor Carlson Gracie Lakeland

Andrew Kinchen and Carlson Gracie Jr. 

Judo has many styles and variations in its application but none are as progressive as Barron Shepherd Judo. 

I first came across Coach Barron Shepherd around 2016. A training partner of mine, Brian Bradway was attending Barron’s Friday Night open mat sessions at the City of Winter Havens chain of lakes complex. At that time, I was a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and just looking to add some tools into my game. I was immediately taken by Barron’s willingness to cater his curriculum to what we were looking for. He narrowed down a combination of throws that would work well in the BJJ arena. I would go on to drop in on his Friday Night classes to continue learning Judo from him. As the years went on and Covid came into our world, the Judo program was shut down by the city. 

After becoming a black belt in BJJ under Rafa Santos I again sought out to continue my learning. I reached out to Barron to bring his style of judo within the walls of Carlson Gracie Winter Haven. The biggest take was Barron’s high-level attack-oriented game.

I’ve proudly trained under Barron for the better part of 7 years. Learning to aggressively grip, the dynamic entries and his unique one handed style of Judo has added many new options and facets to my game. Being able to play very quick allowed the BJJ players in our gym to continue our attacking style openings to dictate the pace and position of fights. I’ve been able to add to my personal game; I actively compete and the confidence has helped tremendously. I’ve implemented several throws and variations into my existing game helping give me an advantage on the competition scene. As we evolved with Barron and implemented a one-handed style gripping and attacking many of our guys have evolved into having a well-rounded stand up arsenal to complement our ground game.

Edward Coleman, Brown Belt - Judo 

Sensei Barron’s Judo program is the most dynamic and explosive Judo training I have experienced. His boxing style approach to grip fighting and progressive gripping strategies to Judo, gives a very powerful advantage for grapplers of any system.

In just a short time of training with Sensei Barron, my outlook on grappling strategies and throwing mechanics have changed significantly and has increased my effectiveness in Judo. Sensei Barron’s ease in teaching and personable approach to his students, makes learning from him very engaging and enjoyable.

Derek Walker Brown belt Carlson Gracie Jiujitsu, Coach and Competitor

An explosive showing of precision and power, Barron Shepherd's style of Judo is dynamic and is always moving forward. My name is Derek Walker, I am a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Practitioner for thirteen years. 

I met Coach Barron more than a year ago when he joined our Jiu-Jitsu team. Spending time with Barron it is immediately clear he is an experienced Judoka. He is scrupulous in his technique and is dedicated to preserve the dignity and spirit of Judo, something he has dedicated his life to.

Even after the very first lesson Coach Barron taught us, it became clear that his teachings were not classical but very evolved to deal with real life issues. With the popularity of Jiu-Jitsu along with all combat sports, people have become more knowledgeable. Everybody knows throws exist and certainly do not want to walk into them willingly, enter the one-handed style. When Coach Barron grabs your kimono it is with the speed, precision and force. What sets Coach Barron apart from other Judo players I have trained with is when he achieves his first grip the throw immediately begins.

Before Barron trained with us, a single grip on my kimono was bad, but not catastrophic. I did not feel threatened until my opponent achieved BOTH grips. Then like most people, I become hyper defensive, like I can imagine myself being thrown through the air at any second. Coach Barron’s ability to punch in his grip, achieve an off balance and quickly begin his attacks is something practical. It has become an amazing opener in my game. If your opponent is standing in-front of you Coach Barron brings multiple tools to get the job done. A constant onslaught of technique, changing direction one after another will ensure a fundamentally solid stand up game, almost all including just one hand. 

I will say even in a short time practicing these techniques, I have added multiple layers to my game and made them my own. To the gripping style to techniques from classic trips to modern throws. There is something for everyone to add to their arsenal.

SHOULD BJJ BLACK BELTS BE FAST TRACKED THROUGH JUDO RANKS?

Over all there’s a growing sentiment that many in the judo community are dissatisfied with the status quo of certain judo organizations and are seeking more authentic engagement in the sport.  

Typically, a BJJ player goes to a judo coach to get better at tachi waza, his throwing skills. Shaving time, skipping rank and being allowed to “test out for a rank” isn't creating a higher-level judoka or higher-level throwing skills. The intent behind inclusivity and reciprocity for a BJJ black belt looking to garner rank in judo should be to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for judo, not to dilute its essence, essentially watering it down. 

While I see the value in bridging communities and providing pathways for BJJ practitioners, I believe that the integrity of judo is to be maintained when doing so. It's vital to focus on the quality of education and the depth of understanding.

As a 5^th degree black belt in judo who has one stripe on his BJJ white belt, I have no desire other than to earn my blue belt in Carlson Gracie BJJ. I have no desire to be fast tracked or made exception for because of a black belt rank earned in judo. Putting on a white belt is more of a mindset than anything, it means that you are willing to put the work in, willing to change the way you might do some things AND willing to learn and grow.

Publicly some who sit in position in some judo orgs have patted me on the back for what I am doing within the Judo community in the central Florida area. Privately, because I am sticking to my guns and trying to uphold the standards of judo these same people have told me that I am closed minded, unable to learn and grow and that my opinion is irrelevant. This coming from people who are more focused on a financial gain of an organization and less and less on growing judo. 

There are indeed similar concerns about the disconnect between the governing bodies of judo and those within the judo communities the orgs are supposed to serve. The attitude that certain “leaders” in the organizations have is that it will all calm down and members will just learn to accept what ever "they" decide. That is a very dangerously dismissive attitude. It's unfortunate to hear and there is a growing number of those in the judo community feel that they have been dismissed. It’s important for all voices to be heard, especially from those who care deeply about judo.

Even though BJJ is derived from judo... they went two very different and distinctive directions. For BJJ a lot of innovation in the ground game was made as the style moved forward. For Judo a lot of innovation in the stand up game was made. These innovations were to the point that they are now quite different sports and martial arts today. There are benchmarks for each belt rank in BJJ, as well as benchmarks for each belt rank in judo. When they reach those then it's time to award the belt rank. Anything else would be akin to sandbagging.

Back in the day there wasn't such a thing as reciprocity of BJJ rank to judo. If my BJJ history regarding Carlson Gracie BJJ serves me at one time CG senior required his BJJ black belts to go TRAIN in judo to EARN their black belts in judo. This meant going to a judo school and learning Judo. Period.

Ultimately, I have hope that we can cultivate a better environment for judo in the U.S., one that truly values it integrity, inclusivity and growth. If you're a BJJ black belt who wants to learn judo...just put a white belt on and go learn judo. If you are a judo black belt who wants to learn BJJ put on a white belt and go learn BJJ....its that simple. 

THE UNITED STATES JUDO ASSOCIATION OR JUDO SELL OUTS? THE NEW USJA RANK RECIPROCITY INITIATIVE

The USJA rationale behind this new reciprocity of BJJ rank to judo initiative is because according to Rhadi Ferguson, "judo and BJJ are basically the same". Well hush my mouth and smack my thigh, it must be true, the USJA has DEEMED it so. 

But are Judo and BJJ really the same? 

Even though BJJ is derived from judo... they went two very different and distinctive directions. For BJJ a lot of innovation in the ground game was made as the style moved forward. For Judo a lot of innovation in the stand up game was made. These innovations were to the point that they are now quite different sports and martial arts today.

Back in the day there wasn't such a thing as reciprocity of BJJ rank to judo. Even today the IBJJF International Brazilian Jiujitsu Federation offers no reciprocity for a judoka to gain rank in BJJ. If my BJJ history regarding Carlson Gracie BJJ serves me at one time CG senior required his BJJ black belts to go TRAIN in judo to EARN their black belts in judo. This meant going to a judo school and learning Judo. Period. 

As a 5th degree black belt in judo who has one stripe on his BJJ white belt, I have no desire other than to earn my blue belt in BJJ in Carlson Gracie BJJ. I have no desire to be fast tracked or made exception for because of my rank in judo. Putting on a white belt is more of a mindset than anything, it means that you are willing to put the work in, willing to change the way you might do some things, willing to learn and grow. 

I WANT NOTHING ABOUT MY TRAINING TO BE WATERED DOWN!

The intent behind inclusivity and reciprocity should be to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for judo, not to dilute its essence. Shaving time, skipping rank isn't creating a higher level judoka or higher level throwing skills.

While I see the value in bridging communities and providing pathways for BJJ practitioners, I believe that the integrity of judo is to be maintained......AT ALL COSTS. Other wise integrity and value is lost. It's vital to focus on the quality of education and the depth of understanding, rather than merely increasing the number of black belts to financially bolster an organization.  

According to Rhadi Ferguson and David Brogan BJJ black belts will be allowed to skip rank, by pass the years of training and skip the formal training and simply test out with nothing more than a rudimentary knowledge of judo history and Japanese terminology for a black belt in judo. Judo history and terminology are covered through the written portion of the current USJA rank examination. Well.... that's real challenging. Elevating skill level in judo isn't done by merely being allowed to test out for a rank. We should aim to cultivate true practitioners of Judo who are not only knowledgeable about the naming of throws and history but that embody the principles and techniques of JUDO. 

I'm more interested in how we can enhance each other's game, leveling up each others game create better judoka and better BJJ players. I don't see any type of method of testing out of a rank or easy path created for a BJJ black belt that will level up his stand up game. That is the purpose right? To take judo to get better in stand up. What about a judo black belt taking BJJ to level up his or her ground game? How is merely testing out of the Brazilian jiujitsu terminology and history make their ground game any better? 

Is the hope here that after a black belt in BJJ tests for his Black belt in judo that he will then commit himself to judo or is it more likely he will continue to do BJJ but he is just dually ranked on paper? Or are we just doing our BJJ brothers and sisters a favor? Don't rightly see how taking a written exam makes your physical skills any better. I'm sure the rank hounds will get a chubby. For the USJA it comes of more like a way for the organization to make money. I m convinced they will make money short term but not long term. It will have a very negative effect on judo as a whole.

My BJJ teacher Andrew is a bb in BJJ he has trained 3 years with me he is yonkyu in judo. I have been at Carlson Gracie Winter Haven for a little over two. I don't know when my blue is coming but it will be earned not given.

There is no real appreciation for rank that isn't worked hard for even if its a kyu rank. What does this new policy say to those those judoka who have been required to jump through hoops of the USJA requirements and standards, take multiple tests, pay multiple fees, be expected to execute throws at a certain level at each rank from white belt on up...FOR YEARS? 

The USJA is not growing judo they are growing the organization. Indeed the Judo organization, USA Judo, USJA and USJF are in trouble, membership is down. Mostly because they priced themselves out and haven't followed through for their own life long judo members. They are more interested in keeping money in their pockets. So selling Yudanshukai rank to NON JUDOKA is now the USJA's standard policy. What's next sell judo Yudanshukai rank to Black Belts in karate, Taekwondo, Kung Fu?

The true growth of judo comes from the individual instructor and what they are doing in there own communities. The orgs have become obsolete due to their own long history of mismanagement. 

The individual instructor gets no recognition for all the time and efforts into running a chartered program or hosting a "sanctioned" event. Committees or those who sit on boards aren't responsible for what the instructor does in their community. Joining the orgs is tantamount to them just stepping in and taking all the credit for the individual instructors hard work. And then taxing that instructor for their efforts. The return for the instructor joining an org is little.

Lastly, through the USJA a BJJ instructor who has simply tested out for their judo rank can now offer and give their students ranks in BJJ and judo.  Now the door has been opened that will make it more difficult for the sole judo program, club or school to thrive. For the judo instructor who teaches at a BJJ school, there is no need for him. The BJJ instructor has been dually ranked in judo through this new reciprocity, so he can continue to teach BJJ the way he or she always have with zero to little judo being formally taught.

According to USJA President, Dave Brogan a black belt in BJJ would reciprocate to brown belt in judo. The problem is here is that I have seen BJJ black belts 1st stripe and up struggling dealing with new brown belts in a tournament. 

So the questions that really remains are: Is this actually bettering judo or bettering BJJ? Is it creating a pool that will make the sport of Judo better? Are they growing Judo or merely just growing the organization? 

I honestly cant see someone who has worked hard for years to attain rank in BJJ would even expect that simply learning history and Japanese terminology magically grants them a black belt or ANY rank in Judo. It certainly doesn't make their throws and grappling skills better.  Why would any Black belt BJJ practitioner respect anything about judo when we tell them to just pass this written exam and we will give you can by pass every rank to brown belt. Since when would you Just GIVE Any rank away...even a kyu rank

Judo is being sold out by this new USJA reciprocity initiative. I don't see this new rank reciprocity policy as anything other than a money grab for the organization. It certainly isn't about preserving Judo, Period.

If you're a BJJ black belt who wants to learn judo...just put a white belt on and go learn learn judo. If you are a judo black belt who wants to learn BJJ put on a white belt and go learn BJJ.

BARRON SHEPHERD JUDO - KOSHI WAZA: O-Goshi, Koshi Guruma and Uki Goshi

Koshi-waza (Hip techniques) consist of throwing an opponent in a sudden motion, using one's hip as the fulcrum. After pulling an opponent onto one's hip, the Koshi-waza (Hip techniques) may be performed with a leg sweep tecnique, by a shoulder throw technique performed while grasping and lifting one of the opponent's sleeves, or by using the spring force in one's legs to flip the opponent up and over one's hip. Kodokan Judo specifies 11 Koshi-waza (Hip techniques), which include O-goshi, Koshi Guruma, Uki Goshi, Sode-tsurikomi-goshi, Harai-goshi, Hane-goshi, and Uchimata.

Ogoshi (Hip Throw) Split step entry

Ogoshi is often translated as full hip throw. It is classified as a hip technique. When you execute O goshi, you have to turn a full 180° so that your back and hips are flush against the opponent.  You bend the knees as you enter to lower your level then lift your opponent and load them on your back.

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward lead. Blue’s knees are bent and his center of gravity low. Twist the upper body clockwise bring the left hand and shoulder to the front closer to the opponent. In a right vs. right situation your right shoulder should be more toward your rear and not out front and easily accessible for your opponent to grip and attack. 

2.) Blue punches in with the left hand and grips the opponent’s gi right above the armpit. Blue’s right hand is up and defending any attempts by the opponent to get his grip.

3.) Immediately after the getting the grip, Blue pulls the opponent with the left hand rocking him forward up off his heels. Simultaneously, Blue steps his left foot up to his right foot. As Blue steps in with his right foot his knees are bent more and his belt line should be lower than his opponent’s belt line.

4.) Blue reaches his right arm around the opponent’s back grabbing the opponent’s gi at the shoulder blade as he steps his right foot between the opponent’s feet. As the right foot lands the toes of both feet should be pointing in the direction of the throw. Blue continues the pull with the left hand breaking the opponent’s balance to his front (note that blue has his oppponent’s head out past his feet).

5.) Blue steps back with his left foot. As the left foot moves back the opponent’s feet should start to come off the mat. Blue straighten his legs quickly, lifting his opponent as he bends forward popping his hips upward into the opponent.

6.) Blue twists his torso to the left by taking his left elbow toward his left knee or hip to finish the throw.

Koshi-Guruma (Hip Wheel) Split Step Entry

Koshi Guruma is classified as a Koshi Waza or hip technique. Koshi guruma is not only a fundamental but it is also a dynamic judo throw. The legendary Toshihiko Koga, well-known for his standing Ippon-Seoi-Nage (split step varation), would sometimes surprise his opponents with a split step variation of Koshi-Guruma. Koshi-Guruma has since emerged to be quite a popular competition technique. Koshi guruma has a high success rate in judo, it is also very effective in no-gi grappling and MMA.

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward lead. Blue’s knees are bent and his center of gravity low. Twist the upper body clockwise bring the left hand and shoulder to the front closer to the opponent. In a right vs. right situation your right shoulder should be more toward your rear and not out front and easily accessible for your opponent to grip and attack. 

2.) Blue punches in with the left hand and grips the opponent’s gi right above the armpit. Blue’s right hand is up and defending any attempts by the opponent to get his grip.

3.) Immediately after the getting the grip, Blue pulls the opponent with the left hand rocking him forward up off his heels. Simultaneously, Blue steps his left foot up to his right foot. As Blue steps in with his right foot his knees are bent more and his belt line should be lower than his opponent’s belt line. 

4.) Blue reaches his right arm around the opponent’s back grabbing the opponent’s gi at the shoulder blade as he steps his right foot between the opponent’s feet. As the right foot lands the toes of both feet should be pointing in the direction of the throw. Blue continues the pull with the left hand breaking the opponent’s balance to his front (note that blue has his opponent’s head out past his feet).

5.) Blue steps back with his left foot. As the left foot moves back the opponent’s feet should start to come off the mat. Blue straighten his legs quickly, lifting his opponent as he bends forward popping his hips upward into the opponent.

6.) Blue twists his torso to the left by taking his left elbow toward his left knee or hip to finish the throw.

Uki-goshi (floating hip throw)

“Uki goshi” is often translated to “half-hip throw”. From a beginner’s perspective, O goshi and Uki goshi are the same throw. They are both classified as hip techniques but there are big differences between these two throws. In Uki goshi only one hip makes contact with the opponent, you don’t make a full 180° turn as you do to execute O goshi, with Uki goshi you pivot less. When entering into Uki goshi with the right side, your right hip should make and keep contact to the front side of your opponent’s left hip or belly. High-level judokas execute Uki goshi with only a 90°-100° turn.

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward lead. Blue’s knees are bent and his center of gravity low. Twist the upper body clockwise bring the left hand and shoulder to the front closer to the opponent. In a right vs. right situation your right shoulder should be more toward your rear and not out front and easily accessible for your opponent to grip and attack. 

2.) Blue punches in with the left hand and grips the opponent’s gi right above the armpit. Blue’s right hand is up and defending any attempts by the opponent to get his grip.

3.) Immediately after the getting the grip, Blue pulls the opponent with the left hand rocking him forward up off his heels. Simultaneously, Blue steps his right foot slightly toward his opponent’s right foot. Blue’s knees are bent more and his belt line should be lower than his opponent’s belt line.  

4.) Blue pivots his right foot counter clockwise pointing the toes of his right foot toward nine o’clock. Blue pulls with his left hand and reaches his right hand around the opponent’s back grabbing the opponent’s gi just below his left shoulder blade. Simultaneously Blue executes a back step by stepping behind his right foot with the left foot to the inside of the opponent’s left foot.

5.) Blue then immediately steps his right foot back next to his left foot. As the right foot moves back the legs straighten and the opponent’s feet come off the mat.

6.) To finish the throw, Blue pulls his left elbow across his body and to his left hip, twisting his upper body to the left and taking the opponent to the mat.

Barron Shepherd Judo: Progressive Grip Fighting

A lot of people who start judo want to start off in judo learning it's big and fancy looking throws. Trying to throw an experienced grappler or judoka is extremely difficult without knowing how to fight to get your grip. Grip fighting is an art in itself and most importantly a fundamental part of judo that is worth learning. It requires serious time in training and if you don’t put the time into this, you won’t progress very far with your throws.

Grip fighting is ultimately the act of grabbing your opponent's gi where YOU desire without letting the opponent get the grip(s) he wants in such a way that prevents you from attacking. The more effective your grip fighting the more you create opportunities to set up AND enter into your throws. 

Have a grip fighting strategy

Be aggressive in getting your grip. Always try to get your hands on your opponent first and get the dominant grip. Don’t fight on his terms and don’t let him have the better grip or tie up. Be specific with getting your grip it should lead to something. Your throw flows naturally from your grip. Make sure the grip you use works best for the throw you want to use.

Grip fighting means just that "grip fighting!" Don’t change your stance stand your ground and fight for the grip you want. Be fast - Be ballistic - Be explosive. Think boxing - punch in your grips like a boxer, you can use combinations, you can feint and you can even parry you opponent's grip attempts in the same manner a boxer parries punches.

If you can’t get the dominant grip, try to break his grip and counter with your own grip

Get the first grip

A judo throw requires the establishment of a strong grip. An offensive gripping strategy can help keep the opponent or adversary on their heels both literally and figuratively. Not having a solid plan for your grips can leave you vulnerable and at the mercy of your opponent.

Arm pit grip (waki)

Outside of Japan the arm pit grip is a pretty rare gripping method. Some of the great Japanese judo players have used this grip successfully in their offensive arsenal. Gripping the folds of the cloth at the area of arm pit is extremely versatile. It provides incredible defense and distance control.

Blue inserts the fingers of his left hand into the fold of the gi just above the opponent’s arm pit. Grip the gi with primarily the bottom three fingers of your left hand and drive the pinky finger into the opponents chest and turn the hand over slightly clockwise palm down.

The arm pit grip is very useful in blocking an opponent’s attacks, restricting his movements and keeping him at a safe distance. It is extremely effective in a right vs right situation or an opposite stance, right vs. left situation (Kenka Yotsu). It helps control his arm making it harder for him to put his hand down to block a throw, it also keeps him from reaching over the top of your shoulder. In the one-handed judo style you have the added benefit of the opponent not feeling threatened by only a single grip. Unlike a pull on the sleeve or the lapel pulling at the armpit is a much shorter pull.

Right vs Right – Punching in your grip

A right vs right situation refers to both players being right-handed meaning the majority of their throws will be to the right side. In a right vs. right situation (pictured) your right shoulder should be more toward your rear. The right hand is held further back and away from your opponent and not out front and easily accessible for your opponent to grip and attack.  Your left hand or the gripping hand is active and offensive. Your right hand or rear hand is ready and active as well to defend against your opponent’s gripping attacks and can be used for feints to set up your throw.

1.) Stand with the right foot forward. The knees should be bent and center of gravity low. Feet are shoulder width apart. Twist your upper body clockwise bringing your left hand and shoulder to the front closer to your opponent. Your left hand is primarily your attacking hand and should be positioned closer to your opponent. The right hand acts primarily as the defensive hand.

2.) Much like delivering a jab in boxing, punch in with your left hand and grip your opponent’s gi right above the armpit. Your right hand is up and defending any attempts by the opponent to get his grip.

Grip fighting is Boxing!!!

Grip fighting in judo is a fairly recent development. There is great value in getting and preventing grips. Grip fighting, used aggressively, creates multiple opportunities to set up your throws and takedowns. Some Modern Olympic elite level judo competitors look like boxers, circling each other while jabbing and probing their opponent's defenses, countering the opponent's grip attempts and punching their hands in for a perfect grip. 

Grip fighting represents the very highest levels of competition however, at the lower levels of competition judo and in judo clubs around the world grip fighting isn't  really seen or even practiced. The approach of a no grip fighting style of judo is still very, very much predominant. 

Dont let the opponent get his grip

Another important detail in grip fighting is don’t be so focused on getting your grip that you allow the opponent to get their grips. 

Parrying the opponent’s grip attempt and counter gripping

As stated earlier in a right on right situation your attacking hand is primarily your left hand and the right hand is primarily your defensive hand. Look to counter your opponent’s grip attempts with the right or rear hand.

Outside Parry

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the outside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his in grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

Inside Parry

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his left hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his in grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

Double Parry

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his left hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly.

3.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the outside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly. After the parry punch in counter grip as shown in inside and outside parries. 

 

Lead Hand Inside Parry to Lead Hand Counter Grip

Though the left or lead hand is primarily the attacking hand and the right or rear hand is primarily used defensively that doesn’t mean their roles cant be switched.

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his right as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his left hand.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his left hand in to grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

Lead Hand Inside Parry to Rear Hand Counter Grip

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his right as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his left hand.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his left hand in to grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.