We learned a pretty cool takedown today, which works better against bigger and taller opponents. “O” means “big,” and “Goshi” means “hip,” so “Ogoshi” translates to “big hips,” utilizing 100% of the hip during the takedown.

We start from the squared-up position, securing an underhook on the lead leg side. You could wrap your arms around their lat, shoulder, or hips and control their other wrist. Begin by pulling their upper body downward, breaking their posture, while simultaneously stepping in with your lead leg, followed by stomping your following toes onto the mat close to the lead leg’s heel. Rotate, pushing your hip onto their hip, bridge up, and carry their weight onto you—the total weight of your body and theirs should be balanced on your toes, not your heels. For a successful Ogoshi, keep in mind the push-and-pull principle: push onto their hip with your hip, lift their weight up, while pulling their posture down with your hands and underhook.

Note not to step too far or too close to their feet when performing the Ogoshi takedown. After the takedown you can transition into Kesa Gatame.

I accidentally sprained my ankles during the condition training after class, I hope this will heal fast. Today’s lesson on takedown was super fun since this is one of those explosive takedown that you can use your weight against theirs but I want to focus more on the Osoto Gari as well as the Hizu Garame.