The Reaper

There is nothing quite as humbling as being thrown to the ground. Regardless of how you get put down, whether by an intentional judo style throw or by simply being overpowered, either way you know the other guy has an advantage one way or the other. The odds are high that the person being thrown down is going to be injured by the fall, unless they know how to fall. One throw that is very straight forward and can be learned quickly once the principles are understood is O Soto Gari (Major Outer Reap). Now not to be confused with a simple trip or takedown, a throw elevates both of the opponents feet completely off the ground. This throw can result in the opponent being thrown on their back, shoulder, and even their head. Add in the possibility of the thrower following through and landing on the opponent there is additional damage that could be inflicted. Ideally we would prefer to stay on our feet to have the options that come with standing while having the opponent on the ground. These video clips show the standard approach to performing a Major Outer Reap. Pay close attention to the opponents arm across the throwers chest. See how you can use an overhook, underhook or wrist control to obtain this position. The off arm can be under the opponents chin, hooked around the opposite side of his neck, or pushing into the far shoulder. One way to make an attacker think twice and reconsider coming at you is to take them off their feet and slam him to the ground. O Soto Gari is a great way to do that. You don't have to be good at a dozen different throws, I would rather be great at one.