Natsumi Tsunoda; world judo champion and phenom, has turned Tomoe Nage into an art form. In this episode, Shintaro Higashi draws from Tsunoda’s recent instructionals and competition highlights to reveal the keys to her nearly unstoppable technique. Whether you’re a passionate judoka in NYC, a BJJ player, or just looking to understand world-class mechanics, these details will transform your own Tomoe Nage game.

Who Is Natsumi Tsunoda?

If you haven’t seen her yet, look up Natsumi Tsunoda’s highlight reels. She’s a master of Tomoe Nage, blending classic technique with innovative adjustments and almost always following through with world-class ne-waza (groundwork) transitions.

Watch the full video here ↓

Tsunoda’s Two Key Tomoe Nage Details

1. Go High with the Grip; Above the Elbow

Most people reach for the sleeve when attacking Tomoe Nage. Tsunoda goes further:

Her method: Gripping higher up, above the elbow bend.
Why it works: The higher the grip, the more leverage and upward pull you generate, making it easier to off-balance your opponent and load them onto your hips.
Versatility: She switches between same-side and opposite-side grips but consistently looks to grip above the elbow for maximum effect.

2. The “Stability Ball” Concave Position

Tsunoda visualizes a ball between her torso and her opponent to create just the right amount of space:

Concave frame: Imagine holding a stability ball at chest height as you set up, don’t crowd your partner and don’t go totally flat.
Why it matters: This space is crucial for sliding your legs underneath and loading their weight for the throw.
Hip position: Tsunoda aims to get her hips deep under the opponent’s knee, shuffling underneath for maximum leverage.
Bonus tip: If you’re too tight, your knees get jammed and your entry fails. Visualizing this concave space solves that instantly.

Advanced Follow-Up: The “Butterfly” Secondary Leg

Butterfly assist: Tsunoda frequently uses her secondary leg in a butterfly motion after loading the opponent, helping elevate and guide them cleanly over.
Submission transition: With the grip above the elbow, it becomes dramatically easier to transition straight to juji gatame (armbar) during the follow-up sequence.

The Real-World Edge

Why do these small details matter so much? Most failed Tomoe Nage attempts come from poor grip choice and a crowded body position. Mastering Tsunoda’s secrets lets you:

Elevate and throw with ease, not brute force
Smoothly set up follow-up ground attacks
Surprise even savvy opponents with subtle entries

Final Word

Watch Tsunoda in action, study her elbow-high grip and her “stability ball” entry, and then take it to your own practice. These game-changing details will tighten your Tomoe Nage, perfect for both judo and BJJ competitors.

For more world-class judo insights, drills, and instructionals, follow @shintarohigashi and check out the latest blog posts and videos. Looking to upgrade your gear? Visit HigashiBrand.com for the best in judo apparel.

Train smart, throw easy, and let Natsumi Tsunoda’s secrets power up your next session!

Special Offer: FUJI GI’s 20% OFF

Upgrade your training with the same high-quality gis trusted by Shintaro Higashi! For a limited time, you can get 20% off all Fuji Sports judo gis when you shop through this exclusive link. Don’t miss your chance to save on top-tier gear—click the link and elevate your judo game today!

20% OFF click here