In Aikido, Kotegaeshi translates to the “Wrist Return” or “Forearm Return.” It is one of the most common and effective “small circle” techniques used to neutralize an attacker.
The Meaning of the Name
The name consists of two parts:
- Kote: Forearm or wrist
- Gaeshi: To return, turn back, or reverse
The name describes the action of turning the opponent’s wrist back toward their own forearm to create a powerful lock or throw.
How the Technique Works
You perform Kotegaeshi by following these active steps:
- Lead the Energy: You step offline as the opponent attacks, guiding their arm past your body so they lose their balance.
- The Grip: You grab the opponent’s hand. Your thumb usually presses against the back of their hand between the knuckles of their ring and pinky fingers.
- The Twist: You rotate the opponent’s wrist outward and downward, turning it back toward their elbow.
- The Projection: You extend your energy through their arm toward the ground. This pressure forces the opponent to flip onto their back to protect their wrist from injury.
Why it is Effective
- Anatomical Leverage: The human wrist cannot rotate very far outward. Kotegaeshi uses this physical limit to control the opponent’s entire body.
- Versatility: You can apply Kotegaeshi against almost any attack, including punches, overhead strikes, or lunges with a knife.
- Safety via Falling: To avoid a broken wrist, the person receiving the technique (the uke) must perform a “breakfall” or a back-flip to follow the direction of the force.
Safety Note: Kotegaeshi applies intense pressure to the small bones of the wrist. In practice, you must apply the twist gradually to give your partner time to react and fall safely.