Yoko Gake – Side Hook

Yoko Gake is one of the original forty throws of judo as developed by Jigoro Kano. It belongs to the fifth group, Gokyo, of the traditional throwing list, Gokyo, of Kodokan Judo. It is also part of the current 67 throws of Kodokan Judo. It is classified as a side sacrifice technique, Yoko-sutemi.

Yoko Gake – Side Hook Demo

Yoko Gake KUZUSHI

From a right natural posture (migi shizentai), draw out Uke’s left foot, then make him advance his right foot and disturb his balance to his right front corner (migi mae sumi). Now lightly push Uke with your right hand while pulling him with your left, so he begins to lose his balance towards his right side (migi yoko). With this motion, you’re lining up his feet in preparation to throw him.

TSUKURI

As Uke’s kuzushi is broken to his migi yoko, step forward and slightly to your right with your right foot. Your left foot is turned so that the outside edge is sliding along the mat and the sole of your left foot makes contact with Uke’s right foot at the ankle. As you sweep through both of Uke’s feet (which should now be lined up) and steer Uke to the left with your hands, drop to the mat onto your left side. Maintain a strong downward pull with your left hand on Uke’s sleeve and push him away with your right hand on his lapel.

Special Note: Complete coordination of hands, foot movement and “sacrifice” is essential for correct execution of this technique. The hooking action of your left foot should be smooth and powerful, not merely a kick and resembling the foot action from Harai Tsurikomi Ashi.

KAKE

Having had both feet removed from the mat by your left foot, Uke will fall sharply onto his back and should land almost parallel to your body on the mat. You should be either seated on your but leaning to the left or reclined onto your left side. Your fall must show that you were in control of the technique.