Mike Van Ruth demonstrates Ura-age in this week’s 2 Minute Technique video. Ura-age means “behind throw” and is another unorthodox Aikido technique. It is not the same as the Judo version nor is it similar to a wrestling suplex. The main difference is that those throws utilize the arch of the back to lift the person off the ground. In the Aikido version of Ura-nage, you lift the person off the ground and throw them straight down while stepping back. The goal is to either slam their back on the ground and knock the wind out of them or make them hit their tail bone. In the Judo and wrestling versions the goal would be to make them hit their head which could be fatal. In the Aikido version it would debilitate them but not be fatal. This technique is most often used as a kaeshi-waza or reversal technique.
Sometimes there's no time to read a lengthy message or watch a long documentary. So we've created these quick and easy 2 minute techniques to help you improve your Aikido technique and knowledge. Keep an eye out for them every Wednesday.
Enjoy!