Techniques

Tachi-waza, or standing techniques, involve throws and other techniques that are performed while standing. Some of the most common throws in judo include ippon seoi-nage (one-arm shoulder throw), o-goshi (major hip throw), and uchi-mata (inner thigh throw). Tachi-waza also includes techniques such as foot sweeps, leg grabs, and arm locks that are performed while standing.

Ne-waza, or ground techniques, involve pins, chokes, and joint locks that are performed while on the ground. Some of the most common ne-waza techniques include kesa-gatame (scarf hold), juji-gatame (cross arm lock), and hadaka-jime (rear naked choke). Ne-waza also includes techniques such as turnovers and escapes that are used to transition from one position to another while on the ground.

In addition to tachi-waza and ne-waza, there are also combinations of techniques that can be used to create powerful and effective attacks. These combinations, known as renraku-waza, involve linking together several techniques in quick succession to catch your opponent off guard and take them down.

It’s important to note that judo techniques are not just about physical strength, but also about timing, balance, and technique. Proper execution of techniques requires a deep understanding of the principles of judo, including kuzushi (off-balancing), tsukuri (positioning), and kake (execution).

Judo Uniform

Here are the steps to tie a judo belt:

  1. Hold the belt with both hands and place the center of the belt on your belly button. The two ends of the belt should be of equal length.
  2. Wrap one end of the belt around your waist, crossing it over the other end of the belt behind your back. Keep the belt flat and even.
  3. Bring the end of the belt that is now on your left side over the other end, crossing it in front of your body.
  4. Take the same end of the belt and bring it behind both layers of the belt, making a loop.
  5. Take the other end of the belt and pass it through the loop from underneath.
  6. Tighten the knot by pulling both ends of the belt. Make sure the belt is snug around your waist, but not too tight that you cannot breathe comfortably.
  7. Fold the ends of the belt down, tucking them under the outer layer of the belt.

The knot should be tied firmly and securely, but not so tight that it restricts your movement or breathing. It’s important to ensure that the knot stays in place during practice, so make sure to adjust it as needed.

In judo, the way the belt is tied and worn is considered a symbol of the judoka’s rank, experience, and commitment to the practice. By tying your belt correctly and with care, you demonstrate respect for the art and for yourself as a student of judo.

Wrapping Fingers

Athletic tape is useful for protecting your fingers in judo. Here are the steps to wrap fingers using athletic tape for judo:

  1. Tear a length of sports tape, around 1-2 inches longer than the length of your finger.
  2. Place the end of the tape on the top of your finger, just below the first knuckle.
  3. Hold the end of the tape in place with your thumb and wrap the tape around your finger in a spiral pattern, covering the first knuckle and continuing down to the base of the finger.
  4. After wrapping the finger once, wrap the tape around the finger again, this time covering the second knuckle and continuing back down to the base of the finger.
  5. Continue wrapping the tape in a spiral pattern, alternating between covering the first and second knuckles until the entire finger is covered.
  6. Once you reach the base of the finger, wrap the tape around the finger several times to secure the end of the tape in place.
  7. Repeat the process for each finger that needs to be taped. Usually this is the ring and pinky finger.

Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. It should provide support for the finger, but not restrict blood flow or movement. It’s important to ensure that the tape stays in place during practice, so make sure to adjust it as needed.

Taping fingers can help prevent injuries during judo practice, particularly when gripping and throwing. It’s important to consult with Coach Tamayo if you have any concerns or questions about taping your fingers.