Overview: Tai Otoshi, or "body drop," is a standing throw technique in judo that utilises balance breaking and leverage. It is effective against an opponent when executed correctly, allowing you to control their movement and unbalance them.
Initial Position:
Stand in a natural judo stance, feet shoulder-width apart, with knees slightly bent. Maintain a strong posture.
Grip your opponent’s sleeve with one hand and the lapel with the other. Ensure a firm but comfortable grip.
Establishing Control:
Use your sleeve grip to pull your opponent towards you slightly, inviting them to engage.
Simultaneously, apply pressure with your lapel grip to manipulate their balance, creating a forward inclination.
Foot Placement:
As your opponent steps forward, pivot on the ball of your foot to turn your body sideways to them.
Bring your lead foot (the foot opposite your gripping hand) forward and place it directly in the path of your opponent’s feet.
Weight Distribution:
Shift your weight onto your lead foot, ensuring your centre of gravity is low.
As your opponent's weight comes onto your lead foot, begin to drop your body weight down into the technique.
Executing the Throw:
Rotate your hips into the throw while simultaneously pushing down on the opponent's lapel and using their sleeve grip to guide them through the motion.
Your back leg should follow, sweeping behind your opponent’s legs in a sweeping motion.
Maintaining Control:
Use your arms to maintain control over your opponent’s upper body throughout the throw.
As you complete the motion, ensure you stay close to your opponent, ready to follow up with a pin or submission if necessary.
Focus on timing and rhythm rather than sheer strength.
Practice the technique slowly initially, then gradually increase speed as you become more comfortable.
Always ensure that your opponent is safe, especially when practising with less experienced partners.
Failing to properly break your opponent's balance before executing the throw.
Not maintaining a low centre of gravity during the technique.
Overextending your body or arms, leading to loss of balance.
By mastering Tai Otoshi, judokas can effectively use their opponent's momentum against them, with confidence and control. Regular practice will improve your execution and understanding of this powerful technique.
