In our dojo, the students were recently set a simple but
valuable challenge: research a different uke technique and demonstrate it in
class. I chose to explore Mawashi Uke — the circular-style block often
associated with Goju Ryu — and to look at how it can be applied in practical
self‑defence. My son helped me demonstrate the variations in the accompanying
video.
Although Mawashi Uke isn’t native to my own style, Shorin
Ryu, it appears in several Okinawan systems. In Goju Ryu it forms part of the
foundational kata Sanchin, while in our Shorin Ryu kata Naihanchi it is often
interpreted as an outside block followed by a double block. But when you look
more closely at the mechanics, the movement reveals a much richer application.
To show how deeply the technique is embedded within
Goju‑ryu, it can be found from Sanchin, through Tensho, Saifa, Seiyunchin,
Seipai, Kururunfa, all the way to the most advanced kata, Suparinpei.
Beyond Blocking: The “Parry Pass” Concept
Rather than thinking of Mawashi Uke as a static block, it
becomes far more effective when viewed as a “parry–pass” sequence:
·
The first hand parries the incoming strike.
·
The second hand passes or sweeps the attacking
arm outward, taking control of it.
This two‑stage motion redirects energy, disrupts balance,
and creates immediate openings. When combined with a quarter turn of the body,
the technique extends the aggressor’s arm and exposes their back — a position
that offers multiple follow‑ups.
Specific Techniques Demonstrated
The specific techniques I demonstrated were variations on
this parry–pass and quarter‑turn principle. These included: a Pass Parry with a
quarter turn into an arm bar applied by the parrying arm, followed by a kick to
the head and a drag‑rotate motion on the arm to perform a drag‑down; a Pass
Parry and quarter turn into an arm bar or shoulder control, followed by a
stomping kick to the rear of the knee; and finally, a Parry Pass with a quarter
turn into arm extension and shoulder control, stepping in front with the leg
closest to the opponent before pushing down on the back of the head and
dragging the arm to execute a throw over that leg.
See the Technique in Action
For those who prefer to see the movements demonstrated, the
full video is available here:
The video follows the same structure as this article,
showing the Sanchin and Naihanchi interpretations, the parry–pass mechanism,
and the three applied examples.
Why This Exploration Matters
Cross‑training concepts like Mawashi Uke helps deepen our
understanding of kata, body mechanics, and the shared roots of Okinawan karate.
Even when a technique isn’t central to our own style, studying it expands our
options and sharpens our ability to interpret movement under pressure.
Thank you for reading.
REY 25/02/2026
