John Crisp demonstrates Uchi Mata Sukashi @ FPJ2

Uchi Mata Sukashi (Te Waza)

Inner Thigh Counter (Hand Technique)

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	Nagewaza

	Katamewaza

	Kata

	Glossary

This is a very dramatic throw for two reasons. Firstly because it is a counter, one sees one contestant suddenly entering to attempt a big throw and the next moment you see him flat on his back with the one who was meant to be thrown, still standing. The second reason is that as a 'hand technique' to the uninitiated it seems like the attacking contestant has thrown himself and suddenly does an enormous somersault in the air.

Uchi Mata is attempted by (in this example) Uke whereupon Tori will step to one side or rotate his hips to the rear on the left side (for a normal sided technique) withdrawing his left leg so that it is 'not there' when the Uke's right leg is travelling upwards and expecting to make contact with the Tori's left leg on the inner thigh. At the same time, Tori will rotate both arms in a clockwise manner to guide Uke into a spin onto the floor.

Here you can see the key components of this throw frame by frame:

Confuse an Opponent

A Judoka who attacks with Uchi Mata is usually fairly confident that their attack will produce some success or at least that they will be able to escape again quickly. However, when up against someone who understands this technique, to find oneself suddenly flat on your back, usually with little understanding of how one got there, is a bit of a shock.

Uchi Mata Sukashi relies upon the speed and momentum of the opponent attempting Uchi Mata. If the Uchi Mata attack is lacking in 'commitment' then the Sukashi will not work. This is why it is often hard to practice at the club. Uki must be fully committed in his Uchi Mata for Tori to learn the Sukashi.