Uchi mata

Alternate names: Inner thigh throw

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Technique Description

Uchi Mata, commonly referred to as the 'Inner Thigh Throw,' is one of the most powerful and frequently used throws in Judo and Jiu-Jitsu. It involves using your leg to reap the opponent's inner thigh, lifting them off the ground while using your upper body and hip rotation to throw them. To perform Uchi Mata, establish a standard grip with one hand on the opponent's sleeve and the other on their lapel. Step forward with your lead leg and position it between the opponent's legs, close to their inner thigh. Simultaneously, use your other leg to reap or lift their supporting leg from the inside, while pulling them forward and upwards with your arms. Rotate your hips and upper body to complete the throw, driving the opponent to the mat. The timing of the leg reap, the pulling action, and the hip rotation are crucial for a successful Uchi Mata. This technique is frequently used from a standing position but may also be applied from the ground, as a counter, for example. Due to the dynamic nature of the throw it is frequently seen in competition.