
Pro sumo currently recognizes 82 "kimarite" (winning techniques), divided into pushing/thrusting, throws, and other general techniques. Almost all victories, however, are achieved by the most popular dozen or so kimarite. Techniques are very important in sumo, since technical expertise enables experienced sumo wrestlers to defeat opponents who are larger, stronger, or faster.
Sumo winning techniques (kimarite)
Here are just a few examples of common winning techniques:
YORI-KIRI (frontal force-out): Get a grip on your opponent and push him straight out of the ring.
OSHI-DASHI (push-out): Smash into your opponent, to knock him out of the ring.
UWATE-NAGE (outside belt-throw): Get an outside grip on the belt, and flip your opponent down.
KOTE-NAGE (arm-bar throw): Clench your arm around your opponent's elbow, to twist him to the ground.
TSURI-DASHI (lift-out): Grab the opponent's belt, and lift him in the air, then take him out of the ring.



