uchikomi

Uchikomi, sometimes written uchi-komi, is a training drill used in judo and other Japanese martial arts to practice the entry phase of a throw. The term combines uchi meaning enter or inside and komi meaning to insert or commit, effectively describing entering practice. The drill focuses on correct posture, balance, footwork, and kuzushi (off-balancing), without completing the throw.

Practice typically occurs in two forms. Solo uchikomi involves repeating entry movements against a stationary target or against a partner who provides minimal resistance, emphasizing timing and alignment. Partnered uchikomi involves a uke who provides grips and light resistance while the tori repeatedly enters for a specific throw, such as osoto-gari, ouchi-gari, or seoi-nage, without finishing the throw on each rep. The purpose is to ingrain the movement patterns and facilitate muscle memory so a throw can be executed more fluidly in randori or competition.

Uchikomi is distinct from nagekomi, in which the throw is completed and the opponent is thrown. It is typically introduced in the early stages of technical training and remains a staple for advanced practice to refine entry, hip rotation, timing, and balance recovery.

Some schools also use variations like harai-goshi or tai-otoshi uchikomi, and may incorporate resistance or tempo changes to simulate realistic conditions. Overall, uchikomi is a foundational drill for developing precise throwing technique and athletic consistency.