Hiza Guruma is a Judo takedown where “Hiza” means “Knee” and “Guruma” means “Wheel,” so Hiza Guruma translates to “Knee Wheel.” We start with the same lead leg forward as our opponent, using grips on their elbow (if you’re in Gi) or bicep (if you’re in No-Gi) and on their collar (collar tie for No-Gi). This is a similar hand grip to Osoto Gari, a takedown you can chain and switch between with Hiza Guruma. To initiate the takedown, step to either side and lift your foot, placing it just below their kneecap. Simultaneously pull your grip, rotate your hip, and pull them in a twisting motion. Their momentum will carry them forward and into the ground. Maintain your balance, and a solid foot on their shin should trip them. If they don’t fall, keep bouncing on your lead leg in a circular motion while maintaining your foot on their shin, which will bring them down eventually.

During the twisting motion of your hip, you can switch to a C-grip on their elbow, bringing their elbow up higher and moving to their back. This will be hard to counter since they’ll be more focused on your tripping leg.

I think the key to a successful Hiza Guruma lies in the rotation of your hip and the grip that brings your opponent forward into the tripping foot. I might need to experiment more with this to get the feeling right, as well as switching between Osoto Gari and Hiza Guruma.

A video demonstration of Hiza Guruma:

Compilation of Hiza Guruma used in competition: