Introduction
Uchi komi is a beneficial tool in assessing and refining your skills for Nage waza (throwing techniques). It advances the techniques of throwing without the use of a training partner, at the same time providing you with resistants training and a method of self evauluation.

Method / Application
The first stage in learning a new throw is always the static Uchikomi, which basically means “fitting in”. Uchikomi is the practice of gripping, off balancing and entering in to throw the opponent. Straight forward repetition of the basic movement when standing still allows the practitioner to look in detail at the whole complex manoeuvre. Some of the details that should be considered in this first stage are:

1. The basic body position and balance for the throw.
2. The function of the hands and feet in off-balancing and entering.
3. The movement of the head and eyes should be directed to the point of the throw.
4. The optimum position of uke’s body at the point of the throw.
5. The method or methods of entry and grip patterns.
6. The timing for the throw (ie. when to throw).

This is a short check list to which you may need to refer regularly throughout the development of a throw and even once it has been established in your repertoire. Most practices start with static uchikomi and, unfortunately, the preparation tends to end there. This is, however, only the first step in a training session and in the development of a throw. This is where tori learns the fundamental mechanics of the throw, where the first ‘feel’ of a throw begins to appear. As that develops, tori should start thinking of moving on to the next stage. There are many types or methods of uchikomi, I will only investigate the one. With the use of a partner you can gain direct feedback of the factors numbered in the above checklist. If you do not have a partner or would like additional training that you can do at home, the following is a self assessing tool that will help you develop your throwing technique with direct results. A pair of expander springs, a bike tube or, the use of your belt attached to firm supports at neck level will be of great help.

Recommendation
I would recommend the use of a bicycle tube tied securely to a post in the garage (If tied to a post in the middle of the garage, then you can practise sweeping techniques). When tying the tube secure it at neck level. The two lengths of tube extending from the knot should each measure approximately the distance from your neck to elbow. This will simulate the correct grip to be taken on the gi jacket. This is one of the best grips to be taken to keep the sleeve of the gi jacket taut for ease of off balancing the opponent. The bicycle tube lengths are lively and they may pull you off balance because you have stretched them in your movement. This will gauge and determine if the throw would have failed or you would have been countered by your imaginary opponent. Try practising each new throwing technique with this training method and you will get a better understanding of the mechanics outlined in the check list within a short time.

TIP
Break down the throw and practise one aspect at any one time, practise both right and left hand throws and remember you will only benefit from this method if you have a flexible approach in imagining your opponent. “So, go on, get a friends bike tube and get into it!”.

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