Tsuri Goshi (Lifting Hip Throw) – Control, Elevation, and Classical Technique in Judo

Tsuri Goshi, meaning “Lifting Hip Throw,” is a traditional technique in Kodokan Judo. Officially classified as a Koshi-waza (hip technique), it combines precise Kuzushi (off-balancing), controlled lifting action, and strong hip placement to project an opponent with stability and control.

A fundamental throw in both traditional training and competition Judo (shiai), Tsuri Goshi is valued for its clarity of mechanics and its role in developing strong foundational skills.

What is Tsuri Goshi?

In Tsuri Goshi, tori (the attacker) breaks uke’s (the opponent’s) balance forward before turning the hips across the body and lifting uke using both the hips and a supporting arm around the waist or belt.

The lifting action elevates uke onto the hips before rotation completes the throw.

Key characteristics include:

• Strong forward kuzushi
• Controlled lifting action
• Deep hip placement
• Close body positioning
• Smooth rotational movement

Unlike O Goshi, which relies more heavily on loading and rotation, Tsuri Goshi emphasizes a clear lifting phasebefore the throw.

Key Principles of Tsuri Goshi

1. Forward Kuzushi

Uke must be brought onto the toes and off-balanced forward before entry.

2. Lifting Action (Primary Mechanism)

The lifting motion through the arms and hips is the main throwing mechanism.

3. Deep Hip Placement

Tori’s hips must be positioned below uke’s center of gravity to allow effective elevation.

4. Close Body Positioning

Tori must stay tight to uke to maintain control during the lift and rotation.

5. Full Body Coordination

The throw is generated through the combined action of lifting, hip rotation, and upper body control.

Why Tsuri Goshi is Classified as Koshi-waza

Tsuri Goshi is classified as a Koshi-waza (hip technique) because:

• The hip acts as the central fulcrum of the throw
• The lifting action places uke onto the hips before rotation
• The leg does not perform the primary throwing action

Although Tsuri Goshi involves lifting through the upper body, its classification is based on the dominant role of the hip in supporting and executing the throw.

Why Tsuri Goshi is Important

Tsuri Goshi develops essential Judo skills, including:

• Balance disruption and kuzushi timing
• Hip placement and control
• Lifting coordination
• Grip control (Kumi-kata)
• Fundamental throwing mechanics

It is particularly useful for building a strong technical base for more advanced Koshi-waza techniques.

Tsuri Goshi in Training and Competition

Tsuri Goshi is particularly effective when:

• The opponent moves forward
• You establish strong grip control
• Close body contact is achieved
• You create forward momentum before entry

In Randori and competition Judo, Tsuri Goshi is used:

• As a fundamental hip throw
• In combination attacks (Renraku-waza)
• To reinforce lifting mechanics
• As a transition from grip fighting into attack

Common combinations include:

• Kouchi Gari to Tsuri Goshi
• Ouchi Gari to Tsuri Goshi
• Tsuri Goshi to Ouchi Gari

Tsuri Goshi vs O Goshi – Quick Distinction

• Tsuri Goshi: Emphasizes lifting action before rotation → Koshi-waza
• O Goshi: Emphasizes loading and turning → Koshi-waza

Tsuri Goshi lifts first. O Goshi loads and rotates.

Common Mistakes in Tsuri Goshi

• Attempting to rotate without lifting first
• Poor hip placement or distance from uke
• Relying on arm strength instead of coordinated movement
• Failing to maintain close body contact
• Weak kuzushi before entry

Refining timing and lifting mechanics is essential for effective execution.

Conclusion

Tsuri Goshi is a classic and technically important technique in Kodokan Judo, combining controlled lifting, strong hip placement, and smooth rotation to produce an efficient throw.

As a Koshi-waza technique, it highlights the importance of proper hip mechanics and coordinated movement, allowing judoka to execute throws with control and efficiency rather than brute force.

Mastering Tsuri Goshi builds strong foundational skills, improves kuzushi, and enhances overall effectiveness in both Randori and competitive Judo.

Watch the video below for Left & Right demonstrations, a breakdown or the movement and competition examples:

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