Natsumi Tsunoda Breakdown: Tomoe Nage and the Art of Beautiful Judo

Straight-Back Tomoe Nage: Rare, Risky, and Brilliant

In this episode, Shintaro Higashi and David Kim break down the technique of Olympic champion Natsumi Tsunoda—specifically, her signature straight-back tomoe nage. This variation is rarely used at the highest levels of judo because it’s easy to stuff and often considered a “bail-out” move. But Tsunoda has made it work with world-class efficiency.

“She doesn’t go side or angle off. She goes straight back,” Shintaro explains. “And still makes it work—even when opponents know it’s coming.”

Unlike the typical versions used to reset or stall, Tsunoda uses her tomoe nage offensively and as a legitimate throwing attack.

Watch the full video here ↓

A Masterclass in Coordination: Legs and Arms in Sync

What makes her version successful isn’t brute force. It’s timing, posture, and mechanics.

Tsunoda uses a combination of a posting leg and a butterfly hook to lift and load her opponent. At the same time, her arm position is key: she keeps her elbows tight, tucks behind the elbow of her opponent, and uses that control to pull her opponent forward—not just down.

“She sandwiches her opponent between her legs and arms,” David observes. “It’s not one piece. It’s the whole system working together.”

This holistic control makes it extremely difficult for her opponents to sprawl, defend, or escape—even in late stages of the throw.

Judo Meets Jiu-Jitsu: Transitions into Juji-Gatame

One of Tsunoda’s most dangerous follow-ups is her armbar. When opponents post on the far arm to escape the tomoe nage, she’s already anticipating that reaction—and capitalizing on it.

“She’ll either underhook the posting arm or trap the sleeve-side arm as she elevates,” Shintaro explains. “It’s very jiu-jitsu-like in its transition to ne-waza.”

This kind of reactive chaining makes Tsunoda’s style applicable for BJJ athletes as well. The overlap between her judo entries and ground transitions opens the door for cross-training benefits in both sports.

The Stigma of Dropping Techniques in Judo

Despite her success, Tsunoda has faced criticism for relying heavily on tomoe nage. In some judo circles, dropping techniques are still viewed as stalling or overly defensive.

“There’s a stigma,” Shintaro says. “In practice, if someone drops for tomoe nage multiple times, people start asking: are your grips weak? Are you just trying to bail?”

But as this breakdown proves, there’s nothing soft about Tsunoda’s approach. Her ability to set up the technique, execute it cleanly, and follow up with high-percentage attacks is a masterclass in modern judo.

What Jiu-Jitsu Athletes Can Learn

For BJJ athletes, Tsunoda’s technique offers a reminder: elevation-based throws can work, even against skilled opponents. The key is not just the initial lift, but the threat of follow-ups like juji-gatame.

“In jiu-jitsu, people are often used to pulling guard or staying back,” David says. “But pulling someone onto your hips and loading them like this—it’s something worth exploring.”

Whether you’re a judo competitor or jiu-jitsu grappler, this episode highlights why Tsunoda’s approach is worth studying.

Support the Show

If you’d like to continue supporting The Shintaro Higashi Show, check out our Patreon for exclusive content, mentorship opportunities, and behind-the-scenes access. Your support helps keep the podcast growing and evolving! Stay tuned for what’s next!

🔥 Want to take your Judo to the next level? Check out the All-in-One Instructional Bundle – 25% Off! for a clear, practical breakdowns of this essential throws. Available now at HigashiBrand.com.

Higashi Brand All-in-One Instructional Bundle! This exclusive collection includes all of Shintaro Higashi’s top instructionals in one powerful package, giving you the techniques, concepts, and strategies you need to dominate the mats.

✔ Comprehensive Training – Covering everything from throws, gripping strategies, transitions, and submissions to advanced tactics for Judo and BJJ.
✔ Perfect for All Levels – Whether you're a beginner looking to build fundamentals or an experienced competitor refining your game, this bundle has it all.
✔ High-Level Concepts – Learn the drilling sequences, movement mechanics, and real-world applications that separate hobbyists from elite athletes.
✔ LIMITED-TIME OFFER – Buy the full bundle now and get 25% off!