Turnover: Shoulder and leg

The turnover is a staple of grappling arts that recognize pining an opponent’s back to the mat, including judo and wrestling. Turnovers are also useful for creating offense against an opponent locked in a defensive position.

This turnover is part of an instructional video from Dr. Gary Berliner (6th Dan in Judo, National and International Medallist and International Referee). More information is available at www.karlgeis.com/films.htm.

Here is an animated GIF of the technique.

• 1: The set up

Kelly begins her attack by gripping Greg’s gi at the shoulder and leg.
• 2: The leg

Kelly is sure to grip tight inside the leg, at the knee.
• 3: The knee

Kelly sets the knee nearest Greg’s feet on his back. It can help hold the opponent down and to create drive.
• 4: The shoulder

Kelly posts her weight on Greg’s far shoulder. She applies the pressure into the flat area of his shoulder blade. Posting weight through this point isolates the joint and creates weakness that leads to the turnover.
• 5: Drive

Kelly drives, through the controlled leg and shoulder. The shoulder should roll somewhat toward the mat, facilitating the turnover.
• 6: More Drive

Kelly continues the drive with her legs. She must be cautious not to extend her center of gravity past Greg’s body. The imbalance will create an opportunity for Greg to bridge and roll her, reversing into his own hold down.
• 7. Control

As the turnover continues, Kelly releases her leg control to maintain balance and prepare to secure her hold down.
• 8: Oseakomi

Kelly completes the turnover by capturing the arm and entering a muni gatame pin.