Sutemi Waza | Throw with Ease, Expand The Chest

Sutemi Waza can feel like one of the most intimidating techniques in Aikido. For nage, the challenge is maintaining openness in the chest and learning to use body weight rather than strength. For uke, the fear of forward rolls can create hesitation.

In this lesson from Lia Suzuki Shihan, you’ll discover how to:

• Expand your chest even while falling, creating natural flow.
• Throw using gravity and weight instead of brute force.
• Help beginners practice rolls with safety and confidence.
• Teach sutemi waza progressively — even to brand-new students.

By reframing sutemi waza as a pathway to connection and trust, practitioners gain confidence, instructors gain tools, and training becomes safer for everyone.