Judo Hane Goshi: The Spring Hip Throw

Understanding Hane Goshi

Hane Goshi, meaning "Spring Hip Throw," is a dynamic hip technique (Koshiwaza) in Judo. Its name derives from the coiled, spring-like action of the attacking leg. The technique was devised by Yamashita, one of Jigoro Kano's earliest students and a frequent uke (partner). Kano, who had a leg injury that sometimes affected his ability to straighten his leg, inspired this throw. Yamashita adapted this technique to accommodate Kano's condition, leading to the creation of Hane Goshi.

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Historical Context

The Hane Goshi gained popularity in the 1910s and 1920s. One of the key figures in popularizing this technique was Mr. Hane Goshi, a teacher of one of the author’s instructors. This throw remains a fundamental and widely practised technique in Judo today.

Technique Execution

The execution of Hane Goshi involves several critical steps:

1. Gripping and Positioning: Secure a firm grip on your opponent's sleeve with your right hand, creating a rocking motion to lift and off-balance them. Your left-hand lifts as your body rotates, pulling on the sleeve for a balanced entry.
2. Stepping In: Step in with your left foot, positioning yourself centrally. This close-contact throw requires the same two-pull positioning seen in techniques like Uchi Mata.
3. Leg Placement: Unlike Uchi Mata, where the leg moves opposite to the arm, Hane Goshi's leg moves more independently. The attacking leg goes inside your opponent’s leg, with your toes close to the floor and the leg coiled like a spring.
4. Body Contact: Maintain tight body contact from your thigh to your calf. The leg should not block or hit the opponent's leg but fit snugly inside, allowing control over your opponent's body.
5. Throwing Motion: Typically, throw your opponent to the front using a see-sawing movement. Tip your head and raise your leg, kicking out to the rear corner. The throw's success relies on coordinated upper-body pull and lower-body lift.

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Where Judoka Go Wrong

The thing to remember and the point at which most Judoka go wrong when trying to execute this throw, is the failure to remember that this is a Goshi. It is a hip throw. It is not a leg throw. Your objective is to take your opponent primarily over your hip. If your hip does not make full contact you cannot expect to throw your Uke. Remember you are trying to throw Uke over your hip not sweep them with your leg. In effect, your leg in this case becomes an extension of your hip. Thus your hip and leg should all make contact at the same time. Only then can you use your hip as a fulcrum so your arms can complete the throw.

Differences from Uchi Mata

Hane Goshi differs from Uchi Mata in the placement and action of the attacking leg. While Uchi Mata targets the groin area, Hane Goshi's leg is more forgiving, accommodating weight distribution over the right leg. This flexibility makes Hane Goshi more accessible for beginners who may struggle with the precise positioning required for Uchi Mata.

Throwing Directions and Variations

Hane Goshi offers versatility in throwing directions. Depending on your control and the lift, you can throw your opponent to the front or rear. Modern Hane Goshi uses one leg against one leg, while older versions involve curling the leg against both of your opponent's legs. This older method can be helpful for teaching beginners, allowing them to grasp the technique's fundamentals before mastering finer details.

Importance of Rhythm and Timing

Achieving the right rhythm and timing is crucial for Hane Goshi. Proper sequence and body coordination are necessary to lift your opponent effectively. Avoid pushing your opponent back with your leg; instead, use a see-saw motion, lifting the leg as your head tips down. This coordinated action ensures the upper and lower body work together, creating a unified and effective throw.

Defending Against Hane Goshi

To defend against Hane Goshi, you can target the standing leg or slip past the attacking leg. One method involves using a knee-down Kosoto Gari to attack the standing leg while thrusting your hips. Another defence, called Hane Goshi Kaeshi, involves attacking the standing leg from the front, simultaneously disrupting the coiled attacking leg.

Final Thoughts

Hane Goshi remains a fundamental and versatile technique in Judo. Its unique blend of power, precision, and adaptability makes it a valuable addition to any judoka's repertoire. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, mastering Hane Goshi can enhance your throwing skills and overall effectiveness on the mat.

Enjoy
Sensai
Richard