Uchi-Mata
Also known as inner-thigh throw, uchi mata
A major judo throwing family that turns the opponent forward while the attacker's leg rises between or against the thighs.
At a glance
- Family
- Takedown
- Format
- Gi & no-gi
- Level
- Advanced
- Connections
- 4 techniques
Concept
What it is
Uchi-mata is classified among judo's hip techniques and has many competition variations. The throw combines upper-body rotation, off-balancing, close hip position, and a rising leg action to send the opponent forward.
In jiu-jitsu and submission grappling, uchi-mata also functions as a reaction to single legs and body locks. Grips, stance, and landing control change between gi, no-gi, and wrestling-influenced contexts.
Core mechanics
Key principles
- Create forward and rotational off-balance before lifting the leg.
- Turn the supporting foot and hips into the throwing direction.
- Keep upper- and lower-body actions connected.
- Follow the landing with control rather than sacrificing top position.
System map
How it connects
Jiu-jitsu techniques work in sequences. These are common conceptual routes in, productive next steps, and the defensive priorities that shape the exchange.
Common entries
Collar-and-sleeve
Turn the shoulders and draw the opponent onto the lead leg.
Overhook
Use upper-body pressure and head position to rotate from no-gi.
Single-leg counter
Balance on the captured leg and rotate the opponent over the attacking thigh line.
Next actions
Side control
Follow the throw and settle beyond the opponent's knees.
Front headlock
Maintain head-and-arm control if the opponent drops to their knees.
Back control
Follow behind the hips when the opponent posts and turns away.
Defensive priorities
Hip distance
Keep your center outside the thrower's loaded hip line.
Posture and angle
Square the shoulders and step around the lifting leg.
Combination awareness
Expect foot sweeps and inside trips when resisting backward.
Context
History and naming
Uchi-mata is one of Kodokan judo's recognized throwing techniques and remains a major international competition attack.
Competition connections
Athletes associated with Uchi-Mata
Keep exploring
Related techniques
Takedown
Single-Leg Takedown
A takedown family that isolates one leg and finishes through running, lifting, tripping, or changing direction.
Position
Side Control
A top pin across the opponent's torso that controls the shoulders and hips while opening routes to mount, back control, and submissions.
Position
Back Control
A dominant rear position that controls the opponent's hips and upper body while exposing high-percentage choking attacks.
Transition
Wrestle-Up
A guard-to-standing transition that keeps contact with a leg or body lock and converts bottom position into a takedown or top position.
Rules and reference sources
Rules evolve. The official organizer documents below are the source of truth for competition legality; the guide above explains the technique conceptually.