Have you ever wondered why judo is often referred to as an intelligent martial art that doesn't rely solely on strength? Many people think judo is all about strength, but the key lies in technique, balance, and movement control.
This article will cover basic judo techniques in a comprehensive, relaxed and easy-to-understand style. The discussion covers an introduction to judo, its philosophy, equipment, and basic techniques, making it beginner-friendly, ensuring training is safe, effective, and enjoyable.
Understanding Judo Self-Defense
Judo is a Japanese martial art that emphasizes technique, balance , and efficient movement over sheer physical strength. In judo, you and I learn to harness our opponent's strength, maintain body control, and manage our emotions during training and competition.
As a modern sport, judo has a set of rules, a clear coaching system, and strict safety standards. Basic techniques such as body position, holds, movements, and falls form the foundation for safe and progressive training.
Historically, judo was developed by Jigoro Kano from traditional Japanese jujutsu techniques and later evolved into an international and Olympic sport. The Seiryoku Zenyo and Jita Kyoei philosophies make judo not just about winning, but also about energy efficiency and mutual respect.
In Indonesia, judo has developed through dojos, clubs, and official organizations that actively develop athletes from an early age. Judo is positioned as an educational sport that builds discipline, courage, and sportsmanship, rather than simply pursuing competitive success.
Also read: Complete Guide to Basic Taekwondo Techniques for Beginners
Basic Equipment in Judo
Basic judo equipment is essential from the beginning because it directly impacts training safety. Using the right equipment helps beginners learn basic judo techniques without the risk of unnecessary injury.
The judogi is the primary piece of equipment in judo training. It's thick, strong, and designed for gripping, pulling, and throwing, so beginners need to choose the right size for comfortable and controlled movements.
The judo belt, or obi, serves as a marker of skill level and learning process. The color of the belt reflects the progress of technique and discipline, helping beginners understand that judo is a gradual process, not an instant one.
Tatami, or judo mats, are a key safety element in the dojo. These mats cushion the impact of falls and throws, allowing ukemi techniques to be learned safely from the very beginning.
Also read: Basic Karate Techniques: Punches, Kicks, and Horse Stance
Basic Judo Techniques for Beginners
1. Horse Stance
The horse stance in basic judo techniques serves as a basis for balance while standing and moving. The feet are positioned slightly apart with the knees relaxed to maintain stability and readiness to respond to the opponent's movements.
With the correct stance, you and I can move more fluidly without losing body control. This posture helps maintain a balanced center of gravity throughout the exercise.
A common beginner mistake is standing too straight or too low. This position makes the body unsteady and makes it difficult to perform advanced techniques like throws.
2. Respect (Rei)
Rei is a form of respect for the coach, opponent, and dojo during every judo training session. This simple gesture symbolizes the ethics and moral values held dear in judo.
Performing rei before training signifies mental readiness and respect for the learning process. After training, rei serves as a form of appreciation for cooperation and shared effort.
Through rei, judo teaches that humility is as important as technical skill. Respect and sportsmanship are always placed above the desire to win.
3. Steps (Shintai Ashi)
Shintai ashi (step) is a basic judo technique used to maintain balance when changing positions. The feet move along the floor to maintain stability and control.
A good stride makes movement feel light and unhurried. Coordination between the legs and upper body is key to maintaining efficient movement.
For beginners, shintai ashi helps avoid pushing or pulling from an opponent. This technique also prepares the body for a grab or throw.
4. Handle (Kumikata)
Kumikata is a technique used to hold an opponent's judogi by the collar and arms. This grip controls the opponent's distance, direction, and balance.
A proper grip doesn't require much force. The focus is on hand position, body angle, and timing with your opponent's movements.
A common beginner mistake is gripping too tightly, leading to fatigue. A grip should be flexible and responsive to adapt to changing situations.
5. Falling Technique (Ukemi)
Ukemi is the foundation of safety in judo training. This technique teaches the correct way to fall to protect the body from severe impacts.
Beginners typically learn back, side, and front ukemi gradually. Each type of ukemi trains the body's reflexes to absorb impact safely.
With good ukemi, the fear of falling naturally diminishes. This makes practice more comfortable and boosts beginner confidence.
6. Basic Throwing Technique (Nage Waza)
Nage waza for beginners focuses on understanding balance and timing. Throws are executed by exploiting the opponent's position and movement.
In the initial stages, coaches typically introduce simple, easy-to-practice throws. The goal is for beginners to understand the flow of the technique without undue pressure.
Basic throwing techniques are an essential foundation before entering competitive training. With a strong foundation, technical development will feel safer and more focused.
7. Basic Hold and Lock Techniques (Katame Waza)
Katame waza is used to control an opponent while they are down. This technique trains body control, patience, and positional awareness.
For beginners, katame waza is taught with simple, controlled movements. The primary focus is not on strength, but rather on position and balance.
Lockdown training is always conducted under the supervision of a trainer. Safety, communication, and mutual trust with your training partner are top priorities.
Master the Basic Techniques of Judo Now with SVRG
Overall, basic judo techniques teach that judo isn't about who's strongest, but about who's most efficient and controlled. Mastering stances, rei, steps, holds, ukemi, and basic throws is a crucial foundation for safe and sustainable training.
To make the learning process more comfortable, use the right training equipment. SVRG offers quality combat sports equipment, such as judo gis , rash guards , and mats , to support beginner judo training with high safety and comfort standards.
If you're serious about learning judo from scratch, now's the time to take the first step. Visit SVRG, complete your training needs, and enjoy a safe, confident, and consistent judo learning journey with SVRG.
