Introduction to Yama Arashi

Yama Arashi, meaning "mountain storm throw," is a lesser-known judo technique that relies on both grips being applied to the same side of the opponent's body. In modern competition, practitioners must be careful to execute the throw immediately after establishing the grip to avoid penalties for prolonged same-side gripping. The technique is classified as a leg throw, though it shares characteristics with hip throws like Hanagoshi.

Core Mechanics and Body Positioning

The throw is executed with a sleeve grip, with contact made between the elbow and wrist on the opponent's arm. The blocking leg is positioned at the opponent's mid-calf with the toe pointing upward rather than forward to maximize structural strength. The throw relies on a pivoting motion that engages core rotation and hip movement, with the foot stepping back to generate power through the torso.

Setup Against Stiff-Arming

Yama Arashi is particularly effective against opponents who use stiff-arm defense or push away aggressively. When the opponent pushes with force, the thrower crosses their body to execute the technique with minimal effort. This setup punishes defensive resistance by capitalizing on the opponent's own forward pressure.

Combination with Korean Taiyotoshi

The Korean Taiyotoshi, executed sideways through the corner rather than forward, shares a similar grip structure with Yama Arashi. When the opponent is too far away to complete Yama Arashi, dropping low and pivoting transitions into the Taiyotoshi alternative. These two throws should be trained together as complementary techniques within the same grip framework.

Angle Adjustment and Positioning

When distance or opponent placement prevents direct entry, the thrower can pull the opponent to the side to adjust the entry angle. This lateral repositioning creates the proper geometry for the technique to function. The adjusted angle makes the throw accessible even when the opponent initially resists or maintains distance.

Combination with Ukiyotoshi

Yama Arashi works effectively as a follow-up when the opponent resists or counters an attempted Ukiyotoshi. If the opponent blocks the arm during Ukiyotoshi entry, Yama Arashi becomes a natural transition that exploits the defender's compromised balance. The technique is also effective when the opponent initially moves with the thrower's energy but then resists the downward motion.

Grip Penalty Avoidance

Unlike traditional Yama Arashi, this variation uses a pushing motion rather than a gripping action, eliminating the risk of penalties for maintaining same-side grips. This mechanical distinction makes the technique safer for competition use while maintaining its throwing effectiveness. The push-based mechanics preserve the technique's power while addressing regulatory constraints.

Yama Arashi

Seiryoku Zenyo

Yama Arashi

2 min read·7 key moments·PT7M32S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Yama Arashi
•Core Mechanics and Body Positioning
•Setup Against Stiff-Arming
•Combination with Korean Taiyotoshi

Mark Gilston, 4th degree judo black belt and 2nd degree BJJ black belt demonstrates and discusses uses for an unusual version of Yama Arashi (Mountain Storm Throw).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about yama arashi?

This video covers introduction to yama arashi, core mechanics and body positioning, setup against stiff-arming. It provides detailed instruction from Seiryoku Zenyo.

How long does it take to learn yama arashi?

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.