Quick Facts
- Category
- Nage-Waza
- Subcategory
- Ma-Sutemi-Waza
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Belt Level
- 3rd kyu, 2nd kyu
Tomoe-Nage is a rear sacrifice throw where tori falls backward, places their foot in uke's stomach, and uses leg extension and arm pulling to project uke up and over in a circular arc. It is highly spectacular, scoring frequently in competition when executed well. As a sacrifice throw, tori deliberately sacrifices their own standing position to throw uke.
Tomoe-Nage — Step by Step
Pull uke sharply forward to break their balance to the front. Your arms drive uke's upper body forward toward you as you fall backward, loading uke's weight forward over your falling body.
As you pull uke forward, step your right foot in front of uke and begin falling backward. As your back contacts the mat, plant your right foot against uke's lower abdomen — this is the launch post. The foot placement is at the abdomen, not necessarily between their feet.
From your back, extend your right leg powerfully upward, using uke's loaded body weight as resistance. Pull both grips toward your hips. The foot in uke's stomach combined with full leg extension projects uke over your head in a circular arc.
- 1
Pull uke sharply forward and step in
Pull both hands toward you. Step your right foot between uke's feet and begin falling backward.
- 2
Plant your right foot in uke's abdomen as you fall
As your back meets the ground, ensure your right foot is planted firmly in uke's lower abdomen (just below the belt). This foot is your launch post.
- 3
Extend your leg powerfully upward
Extend your right leg, driving uke upward and over. The extension amplifies the momentum of uke's forward-falling body.
- 4
Pull with both arms toward your hips
Pull both grips down toward your hips simultaneously. The arm pull and leg push work in opposite directions to rotate uke over your body.
- 5
Guide uke's landing
The circular motion should project uke over your head to land on the mat behind you. Maintain grip for ne-waza transition.
What Makes It Work
- Foot placement in the lower abdomen (not chest) gives the best mechanical leverage for projection.
- The fall must be controlled — you are choosing to go to the mat, not falling accidentally.
- Full kuzushi forward is essential before you fall. If uke has backward posture, they will simply step over you.
- Leg extension must be powerful and timed with the arm pull — both elements together create the circular projection.
What to Avoid
Foot too high (at the chest instead of abdomen)
Place the foot at the lower abdomen/belt level. Too high reduces the lever distance.
Falling without forward kuzushi
Pull uke forward before you fall. If uke is balanced, they step over you and you are in a bad position.
Arm pull too late — not synchronized with leg extension
The arm pull and leg extension must be simultaneous. The combination creates the circular throw.
Best Moments to Apply Tomoe-Nage
Tomoe-Nage is most effective as a reactive or counter throw — when uke rushes in aggressively or pushes forward, their own momentum combines with your technique. Also effective when the opponent is squarely in front of you with a stiff, forward posture.