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If you're learning Judo and trying to master Morote Seoi Nage, it's important to be aware of some common mistakes that people make when performing this throw.

Morote Seo Nage

Mistake 1: Incorrect grip

To execute a successful Morote Seoi Nage, it's crucial to maintain a proper grip. Grip your opponent's lapel and sleeve with the correct hand and keep a loose grip throughout the throw.

The most common mistake is gripping too tightly, which may seem counterintuitive as it can provide more control over your opponent, but in this case, it can work against you.

A loose grip allows for freedom of movement, making it easier to turn into your opponent and get into the correct position for the throw. It also promotes fluid movement and quick reaction to changes in your opponent's position.

To execute Morote Seoi Nage effectively, maintain a light grip on your opponent's lapel and sleeve. This will enable efficient movement and improve your technique's execution.

Gripping too tightly inhibits a full rotation into uke, which most beginners struggle with due to their grip and height level. This leads to the second mistake, failing to get low enough.

Morote Seo Nage

Mistake 2: Improper body position (Not getting low enough)

The position of your body is essential when executing Morote Seoi Nage.

Remember, lowering your posture is a critical aspect of executing Morote Seoi Nage successfully. It allows you to create the necessary space and stability to initiate the throw effectively and generate the power needed for a successful execution.

You should be in a low stance with your hips under your opponent's center of gravity. This will give you the leverage you need to lift your opponent and execute the throw.

A good way to judge if you are at the proper height is: your butt cheek should touch them at mid thigh.

Morote Seo Nage

Mistake 3: Lack of commitment

You need to be fully committed to the throw and move quickly to generate the necessary momentum. But what does that mean exactly?

Well, when we say "commitment," we're talking about being dedicated and determined to execute the throw without hesitation. Have you ever hesitated during a competition and missed an opportunity to score? That's exactly what you want to avoid with Morote Seoi Nage.

Now, let's talk about "explosiveness." This means you need to be able to generate a lot of force in a short amount of time. That takes a combination of strength, speed, and agility. Are you working on developing those qualities in your training?

When I was first learning Judo my coach would be yelling from the sidelines "follow through, follow through!"

Now that I have been in Judo for awhile, I realize He was talking about committing to the throw and not having a plan b in your mind.

So, are you up for the challenge of mastering Morote Seoi Nage? 

Mistake 3: Weak pull

When I say "weak pull" I am talking about what is referred to in Japanese as Kuzushi.  Kuzushi always sets up your throw to be powerful and prevents your opponent from countering.

If you don't have a strong enough Kuzushi, your opponent may not move forward enough for your body to get under him. O worse yet, he may resist the throw by dropping his weight, making it challenging if not impossible to execute. 

Mistake 4: Insufficient follow-through

After lifting your opponent, it is essential to maintain momentum and follow through with the throw. Failing to do so can result in your opponent landing on you and taking control of the match. I cannot tell you how many throws I have seen go bad mid throw. Follow through is necessary to put your opponent on their back. Why settle for Waza-ari when you could follow through for the Ippon?

Avoid these mistakes at all costs!