Introduction to Te Guruma
Te Guruma is a hand wheel throw technique extracted from the Wado-ryu karate syllabus. This instructional guide focuses specifically on the throwing mechanics rather than the complete kata application.
Setup and Initial Contact
The technique begins with a straight punch stimulus, though it can be applied against kicks or grabs. The defender absorbs the incoming attack by bringing the opponent forward while loading their stance, preparing to enter with a ridge hand strike to the chest or groin.
The Two-Strike Sequence
The first strike uses body momentum to transfer power and disrupt the opponent's balance. The second strike—a fast, light blow to the back of the head—generates kinetic energy to knock the head forward and destabilize the posture.
Arm Control and Leg Positioning
After the head strike, the defender controls the opponent's collar and positions their knee against the opponent's leg. The defender then steps laterally with their opposite foot to create space, exploiting the three-point balance by removing the leg support.
Striking Variations
The ridge hand can be replaced with alternative strikes such as the inside forearm, depending on target and desired effect. The strike must be delivered with hip rotation and forward body movement to generate sufficient momentum for the throw, similar to the mechanics of a javelin throw or tennis serve.
Adapting to Resistance
If the opponent resists or possesses superior strength, the defender can redirect by bringing the head forward and striking the back of the head again. The fundamental arm control and leg removal sequence remains consistent regardless of initial response.
Finishing the Throw
The final phase involves bringing the opponent's shoulders beyond their heel line through controlled circular motion. The defender pulls upward initially to disrupt posture, then drives forward with hip rotation while the opponent falls to complete the throw.
Hand Wheel Throws - Hiza Te Guruma - Karate Jutsu
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to Te Guruma
- •Setup and Initial Contact
- •The Two-Strike Sequence
- •Arm Control and Leg Positioning
This technique is a variation on Ohyo 5 of Wado Ryu Karate (I say 3 in the video, that is the variation for next week, getting carried away with spoilers. It is a hand wheel throw also found in Jujitsu, Aikido and as bunkai within several kata for example Shoto no wanshu. In the video we look at some of the physics for the 2 main strikes and the dynamics of the throw. ☯️ BIO: Daniel Pyatt Aikijujutsu, Karate and Ryukyu Kobujutsu Practitioner and Teacher. Physics and Chemistry Teacher. If you like and enjoy this video then please subscribe to get loads just like it. I love hearing your thought and comments so please go crazy below :). 🎥 WATCH ALL MY VIDEOS ⇩ https://www.youtube.com/@DanielPyatt/videos 🔔 SUBSCRIBE - so you don’t miss NEW videos ⇩ https://www.youtube.com/user/ 💥 Master FUNAKOSHI’s THROWS ➭ https://www.danielpyatt.com/instructionals 💪 Sign Up to Members Access: - Memberships ➭ https://www.danielpyatt.com/membership 🥋 Interested in Seminars – Contact us now – [email protected] 👍 CONNECT WITH ME: - Facebook ➭ - Instagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/daniel_pyatt/ - ✏️ Blog ➭ https://www.danielpyatt.com/blog-1 - FB Group ➭ https://www.facebook.com/DanielPyattMA ✍️ CONTACT ME ⇩ [email protected] Check out some of our most popular videos and playlists below: The most important concept in martial arts you've probably never heard of: How to Kill a Roundkick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXjLiM70oRE&list=PLTTVmUxnOBFyH3qV0F6OHcTbBQC3K8NYv Gedan Barai... Block or arm lock? : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cwYHojJwAM&list=PLTTVmUxnOBFxtpV5guJVskc38SYH0Lqg2&index=3 Karate Jutsu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQUThYBQj2I&list=PLTTVmUxnOBFxVVVk2F38l4SpEcWgI8ZWz
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard te guruma?
This video covers introduction to te guruma, setup and initial contact, the two-strike sequence. It provides detailed instruction from Daniel Pyatt.
How long does it take to learn standard te guruma?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard te guruma?
If the opponent resists or possesses superior strength, the defender can redirect by bringing the head forward and striking the back of the head again. The fundamental arm control and leg removal sequence remains consistent regardless of initial response.
