Top 5 Throws Every Beginner Should Learn
Top 5 Throws Every Beginner Should Learn
Whether you’re just starting your martial arts journey or looking for a fun, active way to build confidence and coordination, Judo is a fantastic place to begin. At Torrent BJJ—with locations in Hanover and Pembroke, MA—we teach beginner Judo throws in a friendly, safe, and supportive environment.
If you’ve been searching for “Judo classes near me” or wondering what the best throws for beginners are, this guide is for you. Below, we’ll walk you through the top five foundational Judo throws that new students typically learn first. These techniques form the core of Judo practice and are essential for building a strong base in the art.
1. O Goshi (Major Hip Throw)
What it looks like: You turn your back to your partner, secure their arm, and lift them over your hip.
How it works: By shifting your opponent's balance forward and loading them onto your hip, you use your legs and core to throw them cleanly to the ground.
Why it matters: O Goshi is one of the first throws most beginners learn—it’s simple, powerful, and teaches you the basics of hip positioning and leverage.
💡 Fun Fact: This is often a favorite in kids Judo training in Pembroke MA because it helps develop core strength and timing in a playful, controlled way.
2. De Ashi Barai (Advanced Foot Sweep)
What it looks like: A graceful foot sweep that catches your partner as they step forward.
How it works: By timing your sweep with your partner’s step, you use their momentum to off-balance them and take them to the ground.
Why it matters: This throw builds coordination, timing, and awareness—key skills for every Judo student.
💡 Pro Tip: De Ashi Barai is especially useful in competition and self-defense, and it's a great introduction to learn Judo throws with finesse rather than force.
3. Ippon Seoi Nage (One-Arm Shoulder Throw)
What it looks like: You drop low, load your partner onto your back, and flip them over your shoulder.
How it works: Using your opponent’s grip and momentum, you rotate under them and execute a high-impact throw.
Why it matters: This throw is a classic in Judo and BJJ—excellent for teaching explosive movement and proper breakfalls.
💡 Why we teach it early: It’s dynamic and engaging, especially for teens and adults trying martial arts in Hanover MA for fitness or competition.
4. Osoto Gari (Major Outer Reap)
What it looks like: A powerful sweeping motion that knocks your partner’s leg out from under them.
How it works: You pull your partner backward and use your leg to sweep their standing leg out, causing them to fall.
Why it matters: Osoto Gari teaches balance disruption and control—fundamentals of good Judo technique.
💡 Beginner-friendly: This is one of the most intuitive beginner Judo throws, making it ideal for students of all ages.
5. Koshi Guruma (Hip Wheel Throw)
What it looks like: Similar to O Goshi, but with your arm wrapping around your partner’s head.
How it works: You use a turning motion and hip leverage to spin your opponent over your body in a circular motion.
Why it matters: This throw builds on your hip throwing skills and teaches body control and momentum.
💡 Perfect for practice: Koshi Guruma is often taught in Judo beginner classes to reinforce safe throwing and falling mechanics.
Ready to Learn These Throws?
Whether you're an adult looking to get active or a parent searching for Judo training in Pembroke MA, Torrent Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is here to help you get started. Our Judo programs are beginner-friendly and emphasize safety, confidence, and fitness from day one.
We proudly serve students in Hanover, Pembroke, and surrounding communities—and we love introducing new students to the fundamentals of this incredible martial art.
👉 Ready to try a class? Come visit us at Torrent BJJ or reach out today to learn more about our Judo classes for beginners. Our experienced coaches are here to guide you every step of the way.
Train smart. Build strength. Throw with confidence.
We’ll see you on the mats!
Looking for “Judo classes near me”? Torrent BJJ offers expert-led martial arts classes in Hanover and Pembroke, MA. Contact us now to start your journey.