Basics

Judo is practiced as a sport, a fitness regime and a form of self defense. A typical Judo training session involves a combination of technical practice and randori, a form of one-on-one sparring where opponents attempt to resist and counter each others moves.

Equipment

The following equipment is required for Judo training or competition:

• a Judogi - a Judo practice uniform.

• Zubon - trousers worn with the judogi

• an Obi - a belt used to secure the judogi and zubon in place, which changes colour according to rank.

• a Tatami - a mat to practice forms and techniques on.

Judo uses the whole body for attack and defence techniques. The most important parts of the body for Judo training and sparring are:

• Ashi - Foot or leg
• Hara - Stomach
• Hiji - Elbow
• Hiza - Knee
• Kata - Shoulder (also ‘forms’)
• Koshi - Hip
• Kubi - Neck
• Mune - Chest
• Te - Hand/arm
• Tekubi - Wrist