48 techniques of okinawa karate (part III)

FUMI KIRI
basic throw

This is basic throwing technique. Gichin Funakoshi used term "byubodaoshi" (Karate do kyohan). Similar drawing also exists in Bubishi.

Point here is to sweep opponent's leg. You can perform this technique in several different ways - you can push his chin upward, or grab his throat, or you can grab his shoulder and use your elbow to smash his face.

Tips: Once when opponent is down, you can knockout him with tetsui uchi (hammer strike).   it is very important to hold opponents arm, so that you can control him.

Reference kata: Anan, Passai, Kushanku

UDEWA
"grab leg" take down

There is exact drawing of this technique in Bubishi.

Easiest way to drop opponent down on a floor is to grab his leg. You should grab his ankle and push and twist his knee. Udewa is good response when someone tries to grab you.

Tips: You should always watch his knee. :)

Reference kata: Sanseiru (Uechi ryu)

TSUBAMAGAESHI
make him fly like a swallow

Gichin Funakoshi named this technique "flying swallow", it is very similar to aikido kote gaeshi (wrist lock). However, okinawan karate has other version of this technique. You can throw someone if you grab his arm and suddenly turn and sunk down.

This technique requires a speed. You can use this throw as defense against club attack or knife thrust.

Tips: Don’t use your hands. If your feet move correctly, very little power is necessary to drop down opponent.  

Reference kata: Kushanku

UNSHU GERI
"scissors" take down

This technique is true gem of Okinawa karate. It is preserved in Unshu kata, which is passed to us by great master Seisho Arakaki.  

You have to be very agile to perform this kick well. Sudden fall is used to avoid opponent’s attack. Kick is always aimed at opponents groin. Sweetest part is that you can use returning path of the kick (hiki-ashi) as "scissors" take down.

Tips: You can use unshu geri to defend when you are on the floor. Use kick to deflect opponent leg.

Reference kata: Unshu