Did you know that Judo has a history of using strikes when training? Yes – that’s correct, although the vast majority of Judo dojos do not participate in any form of striking, some do. Historically, striking has been taught within Judo on occasion over the years. In this sense, it isn’t too dissimilar to strikes being occasionally taught in BJJ every now and then which mixes things up.
In Judo, strikes are often referred to by their Japanese name, which is called Atemi-Waza. Like Karate, sometimes Judo also teaches blocks and parries as well as strikes (punches and kicks) to all parts of the body. Remember, as Judo was originally made for self defense, this makes sense. These days though, you’d be hard pressed to find a Judo gym that offers striking training.
Mostly, Judo does NOT use strikes
Judo does not primarily focus on striking techniques. Judo is a martial art and combat sport that primarily emphasizes throws, grappling, and submission holds. Its techniques are mainly focused on using an opponent’s energy and momentum to off-balance and throw them to the ground.
In Judo competitions, striking techniques are not allowed (this is known as Kinshi Waza). Judo is primarily a throwing and grappling martial art, and its rules and regulations strictly prohibit the use of strikes.
Judo competitions are governed by organizations such as the International Judo Federation (IJF) and have specific guidelines in place to ensure the safety of the participants. The emphasis is on throws, pins, chokes, and joint locks, with the goal of achieving a clean and controlled victory through technique and skill rather than striking.
If a competitor attempts to use striking techniques in a Judo competition, they will typically receive penalties or be disqualified from the match. Strikes are considered illegal and against the rules of Judo competitions.
It’s important for Judo practitioners to understand the specific rules and regulations of the competition they are participating in, as different organizations may have slightly different guidelines. However, as a general principle, striking techniques are not allowed in Judo competitions.
The benefits of training strikes with Judo
While striking techniques are not a primary focus in Judo, there can still be benefits to incorporating striking training into your overall martial arts practice, including Judo. Here are some potential benefits of training strikes alongside Judo:
- Versatility and adaptability: Adding striking techniques to your repertoire can make you a more well-rounded martial artist. By developing proficiency in both throws and strikes, you increase your ability to adapt to different situations and opponents. This versatility can be valuable in self-defense scenarios or in mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions where a combination of striking and grappling skills is required.
- Distancing and timing: Training strikes can help you develop a better sense of distancing and timing. Striking requires precise timing and understanding of range, and integrating striking training into your Judo practice can enhance your ability to close the distance for throws and takedowns while avoiding strikes.
- Defensive skills: Learning strikes can improve your defensive skills and awareness. Understanding how strikes are thrown and how they can be countered helps you develop better defense against strikes, which can be beneficial in self-defense situations or when facing opponents with striking backgrounds.
- Creating openings: Incorporating striking into your training can help you create openings for throws and takedowns. By utilizing strikes to disrupt your opponent’s balance or defense, you can set up opportunities for successful Judo techniques.
- Conditioning and fitness: Striking training can contribute to overall physical conditioning and fitness. The repetitive movements involved in striking, such as punching and kicking, can enhance cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and coordination. This improved conditioning can benefit your Judo training as well.
- Mental focus and discipline: Training strikes alongside Judo can further develop your mental focus and discipline. Learning and practicing multiple techniques require concentration, discipline, and the ability to adapt. This can improve your overall mental fortitude and concentration during Judo training and competitions.
