Morote Dori was one of O’Sensei’s principle techniques. In this article, we look at Saito Sensei performing the technique; breaking it down in slow motion to capture the detail.
LET’S EXAMINE THE SLOW MOTION VIDEO FIRST.
MOROTE DORI IN DETAIL
Standing in hanmi (basic stance) Saito Sensei’s arm is grabbed in a two-handed grip called Morote Dori. His orientation is slightly away from the front of Uke’s and his posture is upright and relaxed. The red circle marks the beginning position of Saito sensei’s hand and the yellow circle is the starting position of the elbow.
Stepping in and slightly to the side of Uke; matching Uke’s toes, Saito Sensei turns approximately 180 degrees to now face in the same direction as Uke’s starting position. Dropping his height by bending his knees to remain in an upright posture; and bending his arm at the elbow, Saito Sensei drops his elbow to the position of his hand and takes his hand up so that the fingers are pointing at the ceiling. His elbow is in tight against his body and he is standing in hami.
Notice the effect this has had on Uke. His posture and balance are strongly compromised; bent forward at least 49% and twisted at the shoulders as a consequence his hands now being in the opposite orientation. Saito Sensei remains in a balanced upright posture and is now primed to throw the off-balance Uke.
Drawing his front foot in and taking his back foot back behind Uke, Saito Sensei raises his body and right arm up and back above his head, elbow orientated towards Uke’s throat, further destabilising Uke and preparing his rear arm to cut down and throw Uke to the floor. His orientation at this point has also begun to turn in towards Uke and this turning motion has left Uke in an extremely vulnerable posture.
Ommum muumo
Ommum muumo
LET’S EXAMINE THAT WHOLE MOVEMENT NOW IN SLOW MOTION
AND FINALLY KI NO NAGARE IN SLOW MOTION – WITH TRACKING
What are your thoughts and observations about this technique? Please add your comments below.
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