Throughout the month of June, we have covered uchi mata in class. Below is an introductory study guide for the technique.
Uchi mata is one of the most popular and high percentage throws in all of judo. There are many variations, all based around the basic shape or concept of the throw. Any throw that has a pendulum, levering motion in between the uke's legs with some form of rotational movement could be considered uchi mata.
I believe Kosei Inoue was the main innovator of both styles of uchi mata, hopping uchi mata and hip uchi mata. After becoming an Olympic champion and three-time world champion, Inoue went on to coach the Japanese judo team. His influence on the uchi mata of his players is very clear in the likes of Uta Abe, Maruyama, and Ono. Interestingly, Uta Abe, Maruyama, and Ono each evolved their own styles and twists on the throw.
Here is a compilation of some of Inoue's best uchi matas over the years.
Here, the uchi mata is done from a cross-grip, a grip that is very unorthodox for the throw. What is notable to me about this is how the fundamental concepts and motions of the throw stay the same.
Here, Dominique Bell, judo and jiujitsu black belt, demonstrates not only his uchi mata but also his excellent grip fighitng in a jiujitsu match.
There are countless examples of uchi mata in judo, wrestling, jiujitsu, and mma. I encourage you to do research of your own and continue trying everything out in training.
For July, we will be covering throws off of the double collar grip. Hope to see everyone in class!
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