Yusuke Kanamaru is renowned as a shoulder throw specialist, particularly Morote Seoi nage. He performed many variations of Seoi nage from a range of grips, both kneeling and standing, he even developed his own unique and distinctive version.

In this clip Kanamaru demonstrates a basic standing Morote seoi nage. To execute a successful Seoi nage of any kind, you must perform the basics correctly. These include breaking the opponents’ balance and ensuring that your body is positioned correctly so as not to hinder your efforts to throw efficiently.

Notice how Kanamaru is able to maintain his balance and control throughout each throw and remain standing in a strong position the entire time. This control is built through many uchi-komi and nage-komi repetitions whilst always adhering to the fundamentals.

Kanamaru aims for technical accuracy every time he practises seoi-nage. When drilling seoi-nage on the move, maintaining distance between yourself and uke is the key to success, as it allows time and space to make the full 180-degree rotation required.

A large pull brings uke onto their toes and off balance, ready to be thrown. It is the step patterns and foot placement of Tori that create and maintain this distance and control.

In the following clips Kanamaru will break down the fundamental principles of performing a successful seoi-nage, highlighting the step patterns, foot positioning and ideal body positioning.

Be sure to check out Kanamarus’ tandoku-renshu series for further training on step patterns and posture for seoi-nage and for guidance on how to correctly break an opponent’s balance for seoi-nage, search for Kanamaru’s belt game and hikidashi video.