The Fourth Kyo of Gokyo no Waza: A Journey into Specialized Judo Techniques
The Fourth Kyo, or Dai Yonkyo, is a key stage in the Gokyo no Waza, introducing specialized and dynamic Judo techniques. These eight throws require advanced precision, timing, and adaptability, offering a mix of sacrifice throws, hip throws, and unique wraparound movements. Mastering the Fourth Kyo not only refines your Judo skills but also deepens your understanding of leverage, balance, and momentum.
In this post, we’ll explore the eight techniques of the Fourth Kyo, explain their mechanics, and highlight how they fit into your Judo progression.
What is the Fourth Kyo of Gokyo no Waza?
The Fourth Kyo (Dai Yonkyo) introduces eight techniques that demand creativity and a higher level of skill. These throws include sacrifice techniques, where Judoka strategically give up their own balance to execute powerful throws, as well as advanced hip and wraparound movements.
Why the Fourth Kyo is Important
Specialized Techniques: These throws are designed for specific situations and add versatility to your repertoire.
Advanced Principles: Teaches Judoka to exploit subtle balance shifts and advanced leverage.
Prepares for Competition: Many techniques in this level are effective in competitive scenarios.
The Eight Throws of the Fourth Kyo
Here is an overview of the eight techniques in the Fourth Kyo, presented in their correct order:
1. Sumi Gaeshi (Corner Reversal)
Description: A sacrifice throw where you use your legs to lift your opponent and rotate them over your head.
Key Movement: Pull your opponent forward, drop to your back, and use your legs to lift and rotate them.
Tip: Focus on pulling your opponent close and timing the lift to break their balance effectively.
2. Tani Otoshi (Valley Drop)
Description: A sacrifice throw where you pull your opponent backward while dropping your weight.
Key Movement: Step behind your opponent, drop your weight backward, and guide their fall with your leg as a barrier.
Tip: Maintain control of their upper body to ensure a clean and safe throw.
3. Hane Makikomi (Spring Wraparound Throw)
Description: A powerful throw that combines a springing motion with a wraparound grip to topple your opponent.
Key Movement: Hook your leg against their inner thigh, wrap your arm around their upper body, and rotate to the mat.
Tip: Use the wraparound grip to control their direction and momentum during the throw.
4. Sukui Nage (Scoop Throw)
Description: A lifting throw where you scoop your opponent off the ground without traditional grips.
Key Movement: Scoop under your opponent’s hips or thighs, lift them, and rotate to execute the throw.
Tip: Engage your legs and core for lifting power, and focus on a smooth rotation to finish the throw.
5. Utsuri Goshi (Changing Hip Throw)
Description: A hip throw where you shift your opponent’s weight from one hip to the other during the throw.
Key Movement: Lift your opponent onto one hip, pivot, and transfer their weight to the opposite hip to complete the throw.
Tip: Smooth transitions and precise timing are critical to maintaining control.
6. O Guruma (Large Wheel)
Description: A sweeping throw where your leg acts as a pivot to rotate your opponent in a circular motion.
Key Movement: Block their leg with yours, pull their upper body forward, and rotate them over your pivoting leg.
Tip: Focus on keeping your leg steady as a pivot point while guiding their momentum with your grip.
7. Soto Makikomi (Outer Wraparound Throw)
Description: A throw where you wrap your arm around your opponent’s upper body and use your momentum to drag them to the mat.
Key Movement: Pull your opponent’s arm across your body, step forward, and wrap your arm tightly to guide the throw.
Tip: Commit fully to the wraparound motion to control their fall.
8. Uki Otoshi (Floating Drop)
Description: A delicate throw where you use your opponent’s momentum to guide them into a floating drop.
Key Movement: Pull your opponent forward and downward while stepping back, creating a floating effect as they fall.
Tip: Precision in timing and balance-breaking is essential for this throw.
Key Principles of the Fourth Kyo
Mastering the throws in the Fourth Kyo requires an advanced understanding of Judo’s core principles, along with adaptability and creativity:
Kuzushi (Breaking Balance): Advanced techniques in this kyo rely on subtle and dynamic balance-breaking movements.
Tsukuri (Entry): Positioning becomes more specialized, with entries requiring precise angles and timing.
Kake (Execution): Full commitment to the throw, particularly in sacrifice techniques, is essential for success.
Tips for Practicing the Fourth Kyo
Start Slowly: Break down each throw into its components to ensure proper form and technique.
Focus on Safety: Practice sacrifice throws like Sumi Gaeshi and Tani Otoshi carefully with experienced partners.
Improve Core Strength: These throws often require lifting or controlling your opponent’s weight, so build strength in your core and legs.
Work on Timing: Many of these techniques rely on exploiting precise moments in your opponent’s movement or balance.
Why the Fourth Kyo Matters
The Fourth Kyo challenges Judoka to step outside their comfort zones and master techniques that require precision, creativity, and adaptability. These throws:
Enhance your ability to respond to specific situations.
Develop advanced skills in sacrifice throws and dynamic movements.
Build confidence and readiness for competition and higher-level training.
By mastering these throws, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Judo’s principles and refine your ability to adapt to different scenarios on the tatami.
Conclusion
The Fourth Kyo of Gokyo no Waza represents a pivotal stage in your Judo training. These eight techniques, from the dynamic Sumi Gaeshi to the powerful Soto Makikomi, teach Judoka to blend strength, precision, and timing. With consistent practice and dedication, you’ll not only master these specialized throws but also elevate your overall Judo game.
Which throw from the Fourth Kyo do you enjoy the most, and why? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Some videos sourced from YouTube.THanks to the Kodokan Judo Institute https://www.youtube.com/@KODOKANJUDO
