In the below video Master Koretoshi Maruyama, Founder of Aikido Yuishinkai demonstrates and provides instruction on how to perform ushirodori kokyu nage.

In this particular application of kokyu nage (or breath throw), the nage’s arms are strongly pinned just above the elbow in a rear bear hug hold (ushiro dori).  The attack is also performed from a static position making it more challenging to escape from, particularly if the uke has a strength or size advantage.

The challenging nature of the attack makes ushirodori kokyu nage  an excellent learning vehicle to study how fundamental aikido principles can be used to take the balance of a uke who is not only centered but in a tactically superior position.

Have a great weekend

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Aikido Warrior Dojo, Brisbane