Random thought on Life, Judo Olympics, Judo Self Defense, The Art or Judo Kata, Judo An International Sport. Things that inspire or annoy me or things that I just had to write down.Understanding the Differences Between Osoto-otoshi and Osoto-gari
In Judo, some throws look very similar to the observer yet are subtly different. Among these are Osoto-otoshi and Osoto-gari. In my experience, it is very common for Judoka (Judo students) to practice Osoto-otoshi thinking they are practicing Osoto-gari. It becomes even more confusing when the new Judoka tries to figure it out. let me try to explain. I have included videos below to help.
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Osoto-Otoshi: The Art of the Large Outer Drop
Osoto-Otoshi, which translates to "Large Outer Drop," relies on a smooth and controlled motion. In this technique, the Tori (the one performing the throw) aims to unbalance the Uke (the one being thrown) by breaking their posture backward. The critical aspect of Osoto-Otoshi lies in how Tori executes the drop. Instead of Tori lifting their leg high in the air to get maximun thrust thus lifting the opponent's leg off the ground, Tori slides their calf across the back of the Uke's thigh. This movement creates a downward force, driving the Uke to the mat in a controlled manner. The key to Osoto-otoshi is the unbalancing precision and the drop's smoothness.
Osoto-otoshi emphasizes control over power. The technique focuses on using the opponent's momentum against them, leading to a seamless and efficient throw. This approach makes Osoto-otoshi particularly effective in situations where the Tori seeks to maintain a dominant position without exerting excessive force.
Osoto-gari: The Power of the Large Outer Reap
In contrast, Osoto-gari, or "Large Outer Reap," takes a more forceful approach. While the initial setup may resemble Osoto-otoshi, the key difference lies in the execution. After breaking the opponent's balance backward, Tori lifts their leg high in the air to gain maximun thrust and reaps Uke's leg off the ground in a sweeping motion. This action creates a more powerful and dynamic throw, often leading to a decisive outcome in competition.
The sweeping motion in Osoto-gari involves lifting Uke's leg off the ground with Tori's leg, followed by a forceful reaping action. This technique capitalizes on the momentum generated by the sweep, making it a preferred choice in situations where a quick and powerful throw is necessary. Osoto-gari demands not only precision but also strength, as the Tori must effectively disrupt the Uke's balance while executing a powerful leg sweep.
Key Differences Between Osoto-otoshi and Osoto-gari
The most significant difference between Osoto-otoshi and Osoto-gari lies in the execution of the throw. Osoto-otoshi focuses on a controlled drop, with the Tori sliding their calf across the back of the Uke's thigh. This approach emphasizes balance and precision, making it a technique of finesse. On the other hand, Osoto-gari involves a reaping motion, where the Tori sweeps the Uke's leg off the ground. This technique prioritizes power and momentum, leading to a more forceful and dynamic throw.
What About Osoto-gaeshi: A counter to Osoto-gari
There are throws in judo that are both attacks and defences of themselves. Osoto-gari is one of those throws. Someone executing Osoto-gari incorrectly can very readily be countered with Osoto-gari. Except when used as a counter it becomes Osoto-gaeshi.
So Which should you choose?
In my experience with these throws it is important to know the distinction because they help with the understanding of Kuzushi. However, in competition, whether you do an Osoto-otoshi, Osoto-gari or Osoto-gaeshi has everything to do with what presents itself. Personally, I'd just go for Osoto-gari and see what happens. You should be able to feel if raising your leg high to do a sweep is going to result in you being countered and so you would do Osoto-otoshi. You certainly should be able to feel if your opponent is trying to execute Osoto-gari incorrectly which should result in you doing Osoto-gaeshi on them.
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