Professional Documents
Culture Documents
YIELD TO OVERCOME
YIELD TO OVERCOME
ISBN-2-9806269-0-2
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The Discovery of Judo Understanding the Principles
INTRODUCTION
The Discovery of Judo by my friend Ron Desormeaux, 5th dan, which I have been
privileged to preview, is unique amongst judo texts, in that it not only covers the principle
concepts of judo practice, but delves into the history and development of judo from its
formation in Japan, and as a worldwide entity, touching on expansion into Europe and with
development in Canada, from the early 1900's to the present day. Along the way, Kodokan
judo for most judoka has morphed from a martial art to an Olympic sport, and much of the
philosophical and moral aspects relating to overall personal development have been
neglected or lost over the years. The initial foundation of judo by Kano Jigoro Shihan
stemmed from his exposure at a young age to other martial arts as practiced in the ancient
bujutsu ryuha, primarily the Tenjin Shinyo Ryu and Kito Ryu schools of jujutsu. Present
dojo that teach more than the physical aspects of judo training are few and far between,
and it is refreshing to see an accurate source for further study.
This is an in-depth read, but don=t go looking for explanations of how to apply specific
techniques. This is a book for judoka who are looking beyond the physical aspects of
individual waza application; moreover it is about higher forms of judo study, with chapters
covering history, technical aspects of application principles, a summary of the ten
essential elements and application of butsukari, randori, competition and kata. Accurate
information on these topics is hard to come by, and the judoka looking for more than a
cursory explanation will find interesting vignettes to whet his appetite for more.
The book concludes with Walking the Path from which I quote: ” I hope the previous
pages provide the necessary information to grasp the essence of Judo. Secrets and
mysteries disappear when the knowledge and understanding are at the forefront. Other
mystical elements will be discarded through serious practice. With the guidance of a
good sensei the judoka will embark on a long journey of discovery, . .”
I feel my own personal martial arts journey (musha shugyo) would have benefited by such
a reference over the decades that the author and I have committed to The Journey.
Congratulations on a job well done!
12 September 2006
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The Discovery of Judo Understanding the Principles
Acknowledgements
Ronald
ISBN-2-9806269-0-2
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements 4
Foreword 7
My judo connection 8
Short History
The origins of judo 9
Judo a visual and practical affair 10
Major schools of influence 13
Teaching duality 14
Shihan Jigoro Kano synthesis 15
Kodokan Institute 16
Judo expansion in Europe 19
Canada and judo beginnings 21
Difficulties in war years 21
Canadian Judo Federation 22
Restructuring Canadian Judo 23
Technical judo
The Apprenticeship 25
Objectives of the Kodokan judo 27
First principle: Intelligent use of energy 28
About Yielding 29
Second principle: Mutual friendships and benefits 30
Learning judo 31
Judo Teaching 37
Teacher responsibilities 38
Training attitude 40
Macroscopic view of judo
Natural principles applied to judo 42
Form 1: Varying the intensity and direction 44
Form 2: Making use of momentum and gravity
46
Form 3: Centrifugal power of circular movements 49
Form 4: Superposition and forces of waves 51
Form 5: Use of emptiness - Avoiding confrontation 52
Combining forces and energy 53
Microscopic view of judo
The Ten Fundamental Elements 57
1. Ukemi- Breaking the falls 58
2. Shisei- Standing posture 61
3. Shintai- Movement of the body 63
4. Tai Sabaki- Turning motion of the body 65
5. Kumi Kata- Grasping and holding the costume
67
6. Kuzushi- Breaking the balance 69
7. Tsukuri- Displacement to make the entry
71
8. Kake- Doing the selected technique 72
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9. Sesshoku-Keeping contact 74
10. Ju- Applying flexibility and harmony 76
Conclusion
Walking the path 92
Appendices
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Foreword
In this paper, I propose to follow three generations of judo teachers
who have influenced my judo career. They are: Shihan (original
master) Jigoro Kano the Japanese architect of judo, Sensei Mikonosuke
Kawaishi of France who made the study of judo an interesting
endeavour and Sensei Bernard Gauthier of Canada who was my first
immediate teacher. Without their contributions, my understanding of
judo would remain clouded in mystery.
Note: The words: Player, Judoka, Judojin, Opponent are used to denote
the person practicing and learning judo. Tori and Uke represent the
one with the initiative and the partner receiving the action. They are
meant to address both the masculine and feminine genders.
1
Lao Tsu, Le vrai Classique du Vide Parfait, p.43
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My judo connection
The beginner’s class was under the supervision of Sensei Bernard Blais
a 2nd Dan, a true specialist in flexibility, agility and suppleness. André
Dubé and Roger Gauthier both brown belt holders and patient
assistants took me under their wings. I soon began to learn the ways
to break a fall. Further diligent training help built my technical
foundation in judo and expanded my love for this physical education
system. Through the decades that followed, I tried to discover all the
possible facets of judo. My University degree in Physical Education was
centered on judo. I was then and remain now completely involved with
judo.
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“To understand new things, one must first study the old.”
Japanese proverb.
“Judo as for its highest goal: self perfection for the betterment
of society”2
In doing so, Shihan Jigoro Kano joined the thinking of the ancient
Chinese philosopher Lao-Tzu, who defined art as the realization of
internal energy.
2
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle 2006
3
Idem
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and that, of their own doing, the entirety of their lives can
become the expression of this power. “ 4
4
Idem
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Foreign Origins
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At the time of Shihan Jigoro Kano’s birth on October 28th 1860, there
were hundreds of combat schools, each with its own speciality and
name. Some of these schools were no longer restricted to clan and
family members but were open to the general public.
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“My personal opinion is that Ju Jutsu was created entirely by Japanese”7 J.Kano
7
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiles by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle 2006
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According to Oscar Ratti, the most popular schools of the end of the
Tokugawa era were: Takenouchi, Tenshin-Shinyo, Sosuishitsu, Kito,
Yagyu, Sekiguchi, Shin-no-Shindo, Kyushin and Yoshin ryu. The founder
of judo, Shihan Jigoro Kano attended several of these schools. Three
main schools provided him with specific knowledge that he later used
towards the creation of his KODOKAN JUDO. They are:
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Teaching duality
Reviewing their school syllabus, one could almost detect the influence
of past Chinese Zen masters and strategists such as Hwang-Shihkon,
Lao-Tzu and Yi King who transcended the Yoritomo regime of Kamakura
and whose teaching permeated into the Shintoism, the Taoism and
Buddhism cultures. In the latter, the influence of Zen masters Hakuin
Hekaku and Takuan Soho was most felt. (Takuan had written a
philosophical book about the relationships between samurai way of life
and Zen in his 1632 work
“ Fudoshi Shinmyoroku”. (The mysterious record of unmoving wisdom)
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Shihan Jigoro Kano born on October 28th, in the small fishing village
of Mikage near Kobe in 1860. He followed his family to Tokyo in 1871.
Japan is at the beginning of a cultural transformation from feudal
period to a modern nationhood. He begins his university education and
like many other students, seeks to learn ju jutsu to improve his health
and stamina. There are several schools and independent teachers in
the suburbs but their reputations are somewhat dubious. Many
teachers, now independent of their lords following a decree of the new
Emperor, had opened public schools or gave public displays of their
martial abilities in order to gain a substantial salary. Dr Kano sought
and approached reputable masters from which he could learn the
techniques of defending himself.
His first teachers were Sensei Yagi and Karagiri of the Yagyu School. He
then moved on to attend the Takenouchi, the Kito and the Tenshin
Shinyo schools. He was a personal student of Master Hachinosuke
Fukuda, of Tozawa Tokusaburo, of Masamoto Isohizue and of Iikudo
Tsunetoshi.
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(that same martial thinking and doing that lasted several centuries) he
elaborates a new way of challenging the physical and the mental
culture of Japan. He provided a challenging path for the Japanese
people to think, to live, and to adapt to the world with the use of a
natural principle: yielding to overcome.
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Inner yard of the Eisho-ji temple, Edo (Tokyo, the cradle of judo)
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In the early 1900, Shihan Kano devoted his time towards the
expansion of Kodokan Judo in the world. He visited several continents,
giving lectures, making demonstrations and conducting seminars. He
became the first Japanese member of the International Olympic
Committee. While doing so, he continued to recruit several masters
from the Butokukai and converted them to the Kodokan Judo approach.
On two occasions he came to Canada (British Columbia) in 1932 and
1938 and participated in activities of the local communities.
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In those early days, judo was somewhat restricted to the police forces
and the armed forces. One of the first dojo to be opened to the public
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was in London with Sensei Yukio Tani in 1905 at the Oxford Street Ju-
jitsu School. The next year, Sensei Gunji Koizumi previously from the
Tenshin-Shinyo ryu and of the Kodokan settled in London. He later
made a substantial contribution to the development of judo in Europe.
With E.J. Harrisson they opened the Budokwai of London, a dojo that
soon became the centre of activities for Great Britain and Europe. The
dojo is still standing today and was the host of Shihan Kano visits in
the years 1920, 1932, 1933, and 1936.
During the same period in France, Mr. Guy de Montgaillard also known
as Re-Nie began teaching Ju-Jutsu in 1905. Two Japanese teachers, MM
Ishiguro 7th Dan and Aida tried to implant a more judo-oriented
program in the early 1925, but had little success.
He promoted the use of the belt coloring system to further identify the
junior ranks or mudansha. With the arrival of more Japanese sensei
from the Busen and the Kodokan in 1950, 1953 and 1960, the French
federation decided to adopt the more popular style expressed in the
Kodokan judo teachings as then taught by Haku Michigami, Shozo
Awasu and Ichiro Abe.
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Sensei Mikinosuke Kawaishi 7th dan and Sensei Shozo Awazu 6th dan
The Kawaishi and the Kodokan systems were merged within the new
French teaching syllabus. The Butokukai and Kawaishi’s tradition
including the more dangerous techniques of self-defence were moved
to the ju-jutsu component of the French training system while the
Kodokan free style randori and Gokyo techniques were adopted as the
main curriculum. Other countries soon followed in the same direction.
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With the war years of 1939-45, the expansion of judo in Canada was
restricted. The political climate forced the internment of a large
portion of the Japanese population into the Interior BC, Prairies,
Ontario and Quebec. Most of the western dojos were closed or
operated on a very local and restricted manner.
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In 1949, Sensei Bernard Gauthier and his group tried to fill the vacuum
left by the absence of the Japanese sensei and asked M Kawaishi to
become the technical director of the newly formed Canadian Judo
Federation. Sensei Gauthier’s goal was to try to unite all judo players
of all provinces under one Canadian organization without any
restriction of race or language. He obtained the Canadian company
Charters from the federal legislation and began his work of unification
across Canada.
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Early members of the Canadian Judo Federation taken at the Ottawa School of Modern Judo in 1957.
Rear row: Renaud, Gauthier Sensei 4th dan, Gagnon, Ethier. Front row: Rocke, Dubé,
Désormeaux, Huneault.
In the early 1950’s, the Canadian political climate was modified and
some Japanese Sensei returned to their former residences and opened
regular dojo. The Vancouver area regained its popularity with Sensei
Sasaki, Sensei Doi, Sakai and Tamoto. In other locations, the
pioneering work was accomplished by: Sensei Katsuta in Raymond,
Yosh Senda in Lethbridge, Hatashita in Toronto, and Kamino in
Hamilton, Sensei Inouye in Victoria, Sensei Kimura, Damblant and
Lalonde in Montreal. Many other Japanese of second generation were
instrumental in creating the new Canadian Yudanshakai promoting
Kodokan style of judo. Some provincial associations were formed. At
some point, there were political clashes between the Kawaishi judo
syllabus and the Kodokan system particularly when trying to promote
standards for teaching, competing and grading held between
associations. As some provincial associations had shown signs of
relaxation in the formal Kodokan teaching methodology and in the
awarding of grades to competitors it was felt that a major restructure
was necessary.
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In 1959 the National Sport Council and the Canadian Olympic Committee requested to
deal with only one national governing body in preparation for the upcoming restructuring
of Sports Canada. Both the Federation and the CKBBA had audiences before the
Committees and had the chance to present the case for their areas of influence.
After some deliberations, the CKBBA was found to be more representative of the total
Canadian scene and the CKBBA was given a National Status for judo affairs. Thereafter,
the Federation ceased its activities and its members were requested to join the CKBBA on
an individual basis. In the years that followed, the CKBBA became Judo Canada and a
unified structure now governs the national and international activities for Canada.
Judo Canada is now fully committed to the pursuit of judo goal as a practical learning
process as first introduced by Shihan Kano: “It is a theory of skill by which one trains the
body and mind, and as a theory of life it is an extremely practical methodology that directs
one thoughts to the right path.”8
8
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle 2006
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TECHNICAL JUDO
JU meaning soft, flexible, pliancy
DO referring to the way of progress or path of
conduct.
The Apprenticeship
“I began and started to make progress. It became instinctive.
Now it is all-natural.”9
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For Sensei Kyuzo Mifune 10th Dan, one of the early icon of the Kodokan,
Ju is also inseparable of Do. It means to be natural and to act in
accordance with the natural law, to go with the flow, to yield and act
spontaneously and responsibly. It is not a form of submissiveness or
weakness before events. It is rather a positive philosophical approach
to tackle the dimensions of life with the intelligent use of mental and
physical strengths.
Sensei Mifune like other senior sensei of the Busen (short term used
to identify the recognized Kyoto national teachers association) saw in
judo the accomplishment of three principles: Bambutsu Ruten or the
continuously changing of posture, the Ritsudo the smooth and
rhythmic flow in movements and the Chowa or the harmony necessary
in all action. In his book the Canon of Judo he described Ju14 as: “The
transformation of the person by being noble, just and reasonable while
seeking the truth and the beauty in nature and by giving oneself to
others.”
The five basic instructions given when he delivered his lessons were:
12
Lao Tsu, Dao de Jung
13
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiles by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle 2006
14
Kyuzo Mifune, Canon of Judo, page 23
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About Yielding
Shihan Kano retained the old principle of yielding which was so popular
in the ancient jujutsu schools. Yielding attitude and making use of the
opponent’s movement was known since the Chinese Han Dynasty as
Jou Tao as means to defeat violence. He therefore demonstrated that
there was no clash or sudden break with the traditional principle and
the ones espoused in his Kodokan judo. He fully recognized the use of
natural strength and the power contained in natural phenomena. He
would refine his teaching on the proper and intelligent use of strength.
Use only the necessary amount of strength and discard the excessive
use of it. To the natural phenomena, he added the scientific principles
identified in biomechanics thus making judo a greater system than the
former. He also embraced the dimensions of mental and social
training, which in his time was the popular with the Zen meditation. It
can be summarized along the following lines:
Yield to overcome.
Bend and go with the flow.
Fill in the emptiness.
Make wise use of strength and keep fresh reserve.
Own little and try to accomplish many.
Master many fields of endeavour and stay open.
Have the strength of a man yet deploy it
gently like a woman.
Be one of the resources of the universe.
Shihan Kano further explained his yielding concept and the unity in
forces in the following terms: “If a strongman pushes me with all his
might, I will certainly be defeated if I only try to oppose him. But if I do
not push back but rather step back or turn with the direction of his
push, he will lean forward by being overextended and subject to loose
his balance. Using the strength of his push and applying my own
technique, it will be relatively easy to make him loose his balance and
fall. Sometime, he may fall by himself just by the action of my turning
action. ”15
Similarly, Sensei Kawaishi would explain that when the judoka takes
the initiative and uses surprise to put the opponent off balance, he can
better use the opponent’s strength to his advantage. We can now
understand that by adding one’s own strength to the one being
displayed against us by the opponent will add impetus to combined
powers and both will be used to overcome.
15
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
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Shihan Kano aimed at such perfection through the Randori exercises. In that form of
training, the judoka has to demonstrate agility, mental alertness, and flexibility of mind and
body. He has to adapt to changing situations, make rapid judgements, stay alert and not be
tied down by formalities or obstacles. The randori is a form of mutual benefit obtained
through two willing and participating opponents. Its goal is not in being
able to make the other fall down with uncontrolled strength and power.
In randori, one must deal with the obstacles as presented during the
match and make use of natural laws mixed with mental power to
overcome them.
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This principle of caring for the others starts at the Dojo and goes far
beyond in other aspects of social life. The student is taught to
acknowledge the place of honour and the teaching staff. His behaviour
on or off the tatami must be respectful to others and he must show
signs of personal discipline around others. Before and after each
training session salutations are made to request and thank partners
for their participation. The white training costume or judogi must be
maintained clean and adjusted according to the international rules.
When engaged in fighting matches and in combative training, the
players must take care to protect the opponents and avoid injuries.
Judoka are reminded to avoid acting selfishly and act considerately to
the needs and circumstances of other people in the group. Players will
be told to accept training sessions with different partners of various
sizes and ranks and assist others in performing better techniques.
Sempai or senior students will be expected to engage in the
administration or management of the dojo while the junior members or
kohai will take up some chores for the upkeep.
“The virtues and strengths of one can complement and foster those of
another.”16 J.Kano
Learning Judo
“Not everybody grasps the full meaning of judo, but there are some who do.”17 J.Kano
Kyotsuke/Attention: Many will pass through but few will remain.
For those tenacious enough, the process of learning judo must be a committed effort over
several years. One cannot achieve mastery in a few months or through lectures of technical
material alone. It is a process of a lifetime. The learning process is described in the
Japanese terminology as follow: Learning- Gakumon, the classroom- Gakkyu and learning
level – Kyu. The same ideograms have been used to represent the Kyo as in Gokyo, the
Kodokan system used by Shihan Kano to group his retained techniques.
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Te waza- 15
Ippon-seoi-nage, Seoi nage, Seoi-otoshi, Tai-otoshi, Seoi-nage, Kata-guruma, Uki-otoshi,
Sumi-otoshi, Sukui-nage, Obi-otoshi, Morote-gari, Kuchiki-taoshi, Kibisu-gaeshi, Kouchi-
gaeshi, Uchi-mata-sukashi,Yama-arashi.
Koshi-waza-11
Uki-goshi, Harai-goshi, Tsurikomi-goshi, Sode-tsurikomi-goshi, Hane-goshi, O-goshi,
Ushiro-goshi, Utsuri-goshi, Tsuri-goshi, Koshi-guruma, Daki-age.
Ashi-waza 21
Hiza-guruma, O-uchi-gari, O-soto-gari, Sasae-tsurikomi-ashi, Harai-tsurikomi-ashi, De-
ashi-harai, Ko-uchi-gari, Ko-soto-gari, Ko-soto-gake, Ashi-guruma, Uchi-mata, O-
guruma, O-soto-otoshi, Sasae-tsurikomi-ashi, Okuri-ashi-harai, Tsubume-gaeshi, Kouchi-
gari, O-soto-guruma, O-soto-gaechi, Uchi-mata, Uchi-mata-gaeshi, Hane-goshi-gaeshi,
Harai-goshi-geachi.
Sutemi-wasa-20
Tomoe-nage, Ura-nage, Sumi-gaeshi, Hikikomi-gaeshi, Tawara-gaeshi, Uki-waza, Yoko-
gake, Yoko-otoshi, Yoko-guruma, Tani-otoshi, Yoko-wakare, Hane-makikomi, Soto-
makikomi, Uchi-mata-makikomi, Daki-wakare, Uchi-makikomi, Harai-makikomi, O-soto-
makikomi, Kani-basami, Kawazu-gake.
Osae-komi-waza
Hon-kesa-gatame, Kuzure-kesa-gatame, Kata-gatame, Kami-shiho-gatame, Yoko-shiho-
gatame, Tate-shiho-gatame.
Shime-waza
Nami-juji-jime, Kata-juji-jime, Gyaku-juji-jime, Hadaka-jime, Okuri-eri-jime, Kata-ha-jime,
Kata-te-jime, Ryote-jime, Sode-guruma-jime, Tsukkomi-jime, Sankaku-jime, Do-jime.
Kansetsu-wasa
Ude-garami, Ude-hishigi-juji-gatame, Ude-hishigi-ude-gatame, Ude-hishigi-hiza-gatame,
Ude-hishigi-waki-gatame, Ude-hishigi-hara-gatame, Ude-hishigi-ashi-gatame, Ude-hishigi-
te-gatame, Ude-hishigi-sankaku-gatame, Ashi-garami.
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Ura-nage and tsurikomi-goshi being performed at the Canadian Kata Championships 2006
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Author’s note: There are numerous books illustrating the Gokyo. The best reference is still the Kodokan
Judo Jigoro Kano from the Kodansha Press International. (1994). (The book contains abstracts from Dr
Kano but was produced by a group of senior teachers from the Kodokan Editorial Committee.)
The details concerning the application of Katame or ne-waza consisting of hold-downs, strangulations
and arm locks is not addressed in this volume.
With the techniques listed above and the requirement to master each
one, there is no way that judo proficiency can be achieved within
months. Unfortunately, there are no short cuts. Judoka will need to set
individual and achievable goals in order to become free practitioners,
serious competitors or simply knowledgeable athletes.
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Judo players are evaluated for technical skills, combat experience and
mental attitude. These elements are known as Shin-Gi-Tai. It is also
possible to be graded for outstanding performance during a high level
competition involving several equal and superior opponents. This
system is called Batsugun Sokujitsu Shôdan.
True mastery will be felt in the soul. The black belt may be the envy of
all players yet it is not the end of the journey. There are thousands of
judokas reaching the first degree of Black Belt. The Kodokan judo
Institute and the International Judo Federation maintain the list of the
thousands who have reached the senior level of Kodansha. Yet, only
few have reached the supreme level of Judan (10th dan). These sensei
emeritus are listed hereunder as a reminder that all practitioners can
achieve the supreme rank:
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There are still some good judoka who have not appeared before
national or international examination boards and have attained great
mastery of the art. The majority of sensei will nevertheless present
themselves to be periodically examined by peers and superiors in
order to assess their abilities, refresh their skills and update their
knowledge to the international technical standards.
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Judo Teaching
Shihan Kano adopted the Eisho-ji temple as his first training hall. In
this serious, religious and peaceful venue, students could undergo
serious physical and mental training. Considering the intensity of the
training lessons, it is reported that the temple master would often
scold Master Kano for the excessive noise made by the student falling.
The timing of religious instructions was changed to accommodate the
judo training sessions. For Shihan Kano, learning judo came through
hard work, heavy training schedules, determination and courage.
In these early periods, the learning of martial arts was done through
verbal transmission or Kuden and written instructions (Kudensho) were
scarce. Students had to be selected by headmasters or request
permission to be taught. They had to stay on the premises or nearby
and pledge allegiance to the senior master.
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Teacher responsibilities
“With a well trained body and cultivated mind, you can apply
your training for the benefit of society.”18 J Kano
Since the beginning of Kodokan Judo, Shihan Kano has emphasized the
role and responsibility of the Sensei. In developing and delivering the
Gokyo, he had set the example to be followed thereafter. The first
group of Sensei sent abroad to teach on all five continents was an
exemplary class. They excelled in both teaching and technical skills.
The second and third generations of Sensei have followed their
footpaths and established the Kodokan teaching superiority on all
continents.
The Sensei still occupies the centre stage in all dojo. They are the
pillars of the Kodokan tradition, the nerve centres that regulate the
flow and the dynamic of the judo teaching experience. The teacher’s
mission is to transmit knowledge, to pass on the ideals and principles
of judo; to oversee its practice in a safe environment and to provide
leadership in character building for all students.
Once the gist of the technique is understood, the teacher will introduce
the Yakusoku-renshu exercises. Here, the students will undergo
dynamic applications of the learned skill. They will attempt to profit
from opportunities arising in a light match between partners. During
18
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
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The next training aid will be the Randori or the free practice. This
exercise is a skills oriented match between opponents. Both will
attempt their best techniques and profit from the opportunities to
outwit and take advantage of the other. It was Miyamoto Musashi who
once said: “ We must first train in tactics or means of securing
advantage so that we can use it at any moment and we must learn the
various ways to use the technique in all circumstances”.
19
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
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Training Attitude
The judo learning process is similar to other martial arts. The training
takes form in the dojo or training hall. For physical orientation, the
front of the dojo is known as the Kamiza or upper place. This is the
location for the chief technician or sensei and where pictures or
memento of Shihan Kano are affixed to the wall behind him. Opposite
to the Kamiza is the Shimoza or place where the students are located.
Looking from the Kamiza, we identify the right side as the Shimoseki or
place for the general assembly or spectators. To the left, there is the
Joseki, the formal area for presentations, lectures and training.
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Students may rely upon the Sensei to transmit his knowledge and
provide the practical opportunities for the students to advance. Judoka
will find sufficient time in free practice (randori) and in competition
(shiai), to experiment with the techniques learned and adapt them to
their own personality. With time and proper guidance the judoka will
reach a stage whereby he can perform techniques as and when
desired.
At the end of each training session, the judoka has some moments to
reflect upon the movements and combat situations he encountered.
Reflexion period called Mokuso will provide time to review, analyse,
identify his weakness and strength and develop appropriate remedial
plans to pursue his training.
“Judo is not merely a martial art but rather the basic principle of human
behaviour”20 J. Kano
20
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
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21
Idem
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During the course of study of judo, teachers will frequently refer to the
laws of nature as applied to judo. Shihan Kano often reflected upon
those natural phenomena and wrote: “I hope that students of judo will
master their own wasa and enjoy watching the wasa of others. I hope
they will come to appreciate the beauty in their own movements and
come to appreciate the graceful and dynamic movements of others”.
He condensed some of his observations in the making of a superior
kata known as Itsutsu no kata demonstrated in 1897.
22
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
23
Idem
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There is a Zen proverb that says: “When looking for rigidity, seek
flexibility. When obtaining power, protect it with weakness. By
practicing flexibility you will gain strength. Work on your weakness
and you will find power.”
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Sensei T. Sato 8th dan approaching to apply different energy sources at different speed to the
abdomen of Sensei Y.Enoki during the First Form of Itsutsu no kata demonstration.
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Sir Isaac Newton’s First Law of Motion states that an object at rest will
stay at rest unless a force is exerted onto it; likewise, an object in
motion will stay in motion unless a force is exerted onto it. A person’s
balance can be considered a state of rest and behaves according to
the above law.
Also, from physics, it is known that two objects of the same mass
travelling at the same speed will have the same momentum; however,
if one of the masses is bigger, it will have more momentum. Likewise,
if two bodies have the same mass, the one travelling at the faster
speed will have greater momentum.
The above principles imply that a bigger mass will require more force
to initially move and accelerate it than a smaller mass; however, once
in motion, the bigger mass will have more momentum than the smaller
mass travelling at the same speed and more force will be required to
stop (decelerate) the bigger mass. Now, if the small mass has a great
speed, it will have more momentum than the large mass.
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For two opponents of the same weight, a judoka would have to use
greater speed to overcome the momentum of an attacking opponent;
instead, the master judoka will simply redirect his motion in the
direction of the incoming attack. The master judoka will then perform
kuzushi (braking the balance) along the trajectory of an eventual fall
to the ground by the opponent. The momentum of the master judoka’s
movement (tsukuri) will then be added to that of the now unstable
opponent. This instance of great momentum and imbalance is when
the judoka should take advantage of the situation and execute a throw
technique in the vertical or horizontal plane, depending on the
direction of additive momentum, this portion of a technique is called
kake.
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The judoka will further learn to use the centre of gravity as a strategic
zone to voluntarily initiate a displacement and take advantage of quick
actions or interferences against the opponent and to prevent the quick
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Let us look at another situation using the gravity to work in our favour.
When the judoka is pulled up by an exterior force or propelled upwards
by the springing action of the legs, his body will rise in the air to the
point where his vertical speed will become zero due to the action of
gravity, after which the body will come back down. This infinitesimal
opportunity at which the upward and downward forces balance each
other out is when the body is almost weightless - another moment to
be exploited by the judoka.
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Sensei Tadashi Sato placing himself at the centre of a circular movement to exploit
its power
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The sun and moon produce the tides, and the tides and wind create waves. The wave size,
height, speed and direction will vary. Gentle waves hitting shore will return to sea forming
small arcs when meeting shore-bound waves. The combination of several waves can
produce bigger and more powerful waves. At times, waves can advance at incredible
speeds and rise to form walls of water that can be destructive, while at other moments they
will just dissipate into nowhere.
Sensei Tadashi Sato 8th dan demonstrating the power of a tidal wave
Judo activities make good use of waves such as: in the waves produced by the body
particularly the hips when doing Tachi wasa, in the sacrifice techniques called Sutemi wasa
or in some throwing techniques. Powerful waves and rolling actions are also found in the
application of mat techniques called Ne waza, when coiling, twisting and turning in
attempts to overthrow the opponent.
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In other words: the bigger the masses, the bigger the attractive force,
and the smaller the distance between the masses, the larger the
attraction.
Likewise, in judo, two opponents fighting will displace their individual mass within a
limited space. Their mass and proximity will influence each other. As they move about,
joined by the kumi kata (grasping of the opponent) they form a universe. Each opponent
will resort to changing or altering their speed and direction by pushing, pulling, thrusting,
lifting, balancing and leveraging in order to move about in that new space without colliding
with the other. If a collision happens, where force meets force, there is likely to be an
entanglement and no true technique can emerge from this kind of clash.
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For the master judoka, every effort will be made to avoid such a direct collision or
confrontation when being within arms reach from the opponent. The judoka must evaluate
and predict the opponent’s path quickly and then approach in the direction of least
resistance or the direction of additive momentum. The judoka will then use this knowledge
to adjust his position around, under or over the incoming mass and influence the other.
Sensei Tadashi Sato 8th dan performing the 5th element of the Itsutsu kata
The conclusion that can be drawn from the Itsutsu no kata is that the
power of surrounding natural elements can be mustered and used
intelligently as a combined force by the judoka in order to overcome
an opponent.
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Shihan Kano’s teachings show us the intelligent use of power and the
conservation of energy to be kept in reserve in case of need. The sole
use of excessive muscular strength should be discarded. What is
needed in judo is to be able to identify, make use of and combine all
the forces present such as: muscular, mechanical, kinetic and
potential, and to use the mental power of both opponents. By
combining these forces in a given direction, the judoka will be better
positioned to keep most of his own energy in reserve and still
overcome his opponent.
To better use all energy sources at his disposal, the judoka will need to
conduct a quick analysis of the combat zone, identify the free space
between him and the opponent, judge what forces are at play in that
zone and how stable is the energy there. An evaluation of the threats
will reveal if he can make better use of displacement, an extended
limb, the opponent’s speed of attack or the precarious balance to
overcome him. When making his decision to acquire and redirect these
forces, the judoka will manoeuvre about, securing the initiative to
attack on the most vulnerable of the directions inside or outside the
sphere around the opponent. Using his own energy sources, combining
them and distributing them along the same path, he will be able to
apply them along the direction of least resistance and at the area
where the opponent’s stability is most compromised.
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Sensei Katanishi using his body weight Ura- nage from Nage-no-
Kata
in the direction of a fall with sumi-gaeshi Canadian Kata
Championships 2006
24
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
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that the judoka should venture to use his wasa up to a certain point,
but when that point is reached, to stop.
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“I have coined a phrase that I regularly say to people: jinsei no koro wa itsu
aru nomi
There is only one path in life. Conducting oneself in accord with this
principle on a daily basis is vitally important.”25 J. Kano
25
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
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Sensei Bernard Gauthier once said to me: “Before you can go about
throwing other people around, you better learn what being thrown is
all about.” A judo contest normally starts with both players standing
up. To score, there must be a throw, a take down or a standing
technique like an arm lock or strangulation applied. In 90% of the
cases, a throw will be attempted and will result in one or both of the
opponents falling to the mat. The technique used to avoid injuries is
called the Ukemi. By definition, Ukemi is self- protection or falling
safely. In all Tachi-waza the partner is thrown down and if more than
half of his back has contact with the mat, there is a score. This is
relatively safe since the judoka normally holds the opponent by one
arm or by the lapels, a motion used to partially absorb the weight. In
Shiai or contest situations, this gesture is not as evident. The judoka
must rely upon good falling techniques to provide for his protection
and safety.
By accepting the fall upon being thrown, the judoka will acquired more
mental freedom to later deploy his offensive skills. Not preoccupied
with the immediate safety upon reaching the mat and by
understanding where and how strongly the body will reach the ground
will provide a mental assurance of the safety feature associated with
being thrown.
The falling procedures consist in the rolling and arching movements of
the body and the maximum exposure of the back and side areas to
make the impact with the mat. The player will follow a natural path of
a rounded falling object: the more the area of impact with the ground
it has, the less damage it will receive.
Falling safely is learned in progressive steps. From the low position, the
player will progress towards higher positions, more dynamic and speed
is added. In later steps, the judoka will benefit from a partner who will
assist by pushing, lifting and throwing.
There are four kinds of directions possible to perform Ukemi: the front
roll, the back roll, the side arcs and the frontal plane. The latter one is
mostly used in self-defence situation.
The learning process of Ukemi will vary from one player to the next.
Some judoka find it easy to get familiar with the empty space that
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separates them from the mat, yet, others are more reluctant and will
fear the fall.
The first Ukemi exercise starts with the backward break fall or Ushiro
Ukemi. The player will lay or sit on the mat, wrap his arms around his
knees, and tuck his chin on the chest and rock back and forth.
The rolls forward and backward make use of the same falling patterns
described by the rolling ball distributing its point of impact along the
mat and over several contact points following each other in harmony.
The body is thus curled up; the back is extended in an inward stretch,
the head bent and the hands folded to push in the desired direction.
The arms will be used to direct the fall and hit the mat when the centre
of gravity makes its impact onto the mat surface.
Falling and using the side arcs follow similar principles. Here, when the
body is close to the ground, it is curled up in a similar positions and
one arm is extended at an angle of 45 degrees to make a percussion
on the ground, ahead of the arrival of the main mass. The judoka will
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normally inhale before and exhale during the impact with the ground
to avoid percussion waves or loose his breath completely. A short Kiai
or shout is frequently used to produce the exhaling effect.
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The head will be kept in its natural extension of the vertebrae. Since it
holds the nerve centre, it should be kept straight in order to facilitate
the blood circulation and the transmission of neurons-messages.
Messages and sensations detected by the ears, eyes, nose and
muscular responses should be somewhat enhanced. Shizen Hontai
gives the player the advantage of having the eyes and the head
positioned in a manner as to oversee the actions and gain the
necessary vantage point.
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Shizen Hon and Jigo Hon Tai postures performed on the left and right
sides
By Sensei Mifune
From Canon of Judo by K. Mifune
To go on the defensive and or move with more caution, the player will
take up a slightly lower position by bending the knees, extending the
reach of the base made by the feet and lowering his centre of gravity
by a few centimetres. This position is known as the Jigo Hontai. The
player must continuously guard against adapting a too rigid of a
stance or over extending his arms since both actions diminish his
response time and consume energy and power that can not be used in
his attack.
In both these positions, the judoka will need to practice his movement
abilities and special orientation. He has to become conscious of his
ability to use his toes to reinforce his balance and guide his
displacement. The inside and outside of his feet will require
adjustments when he is pushing or pulling. His knees have to be
exercised to absorb shocks and quickly spring up to produce lifting
impulses when required. He has to train himself to listen to foot noises,
feel the different ambient air currents produced by sudden movements
of the opponent, identify vector forces being applied against him and
continuously try to improve his field of vision.
There are other successful competitive postures but these two have
best demonstrated the facility to make quick responses. They provide
flexibility in the choice of attacking angles or withdrawal directions.
They permit sudden adjustments to the distances between players,
provide a sound base of departure to launch an explosive and speedy
attack or counter attack. In general, these positions offer less
resistance and less muscle fatigue.
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When moving about on the tatami, the players must be able to travel
the space with some elasticity and freedom. Direct, angular or
rotational displacements must give greater manoeuvrability and
permit the securing of the free space needed to launch the attack. Like
the sudden wind, the attack must come as a surprise to the opponent.
It may take any direction to best overcome the opponent or engulf him
into a combination of forces gathered to make the throw.
In moving about or during the execution of the throw, the judoka will
try to keep his balance as long as possible in order to avoid being a
target for the opponent. Forfeiture of balance can only be done in
extremis such as: when the judoka feels that the opponent can no
longer recuperate his balance, that he has committed all his power
and has no more reserve tricks and that the judoka’s sudden and total
shifting of weight in the direction of the fall will make the final
difference.
For retention of balance while moving about, the player will need to
slide his feet horizontally along the ground. One foot will chase the
other and he shall keep his weight on the leading foot. This walking
technique is called Tsugi Ashi. At no time should the feet be crossed,
placed too close together or too far apart. It is like a cautious
promenade on ice. By sliding the feet forward or backward, the centre
of gravity is kept more stable and the muscle groups need not work as
hard to keep the equilibrium.
The regular walking movement (called Ayumi Ashi) is less used in judo
situations. The body is oscillating too much from the actions of the legs
advancing and retreating with a lifting motion. This oscillating
manoeuvre offers more opportunities to break the balance.
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The space located between the wrists and elbows is called the free or
manoeuvrable space. This is the segment of space that competitors
fight for in order to gain strategic advantage. In that free space, a new
centre of gravity will result from the two entangled opponents. Every
detected move by one player will be met by an appropriate reaction
from the opponent. The judoka is thus advised to pay attention to this
new centre and use inside or outside balance breaking techniques to
influence its stability.
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Sensei Mifune once said about the turning movement that: “it is a
special technique that must be learned. It is not a spontaneous move. It is a
rotation done while keeping proper balance. Turning movements are naturals
thus more basic, yet, the very basic things are frequently the most
important.”
It is a fact that when all factors are considered, the superior force will
overcome a weaker one. Yet, in judo, a physically weaker judoka can
overcome the stronger opponent by rotating and sliding sideways. By
moving about, he is able to avoid direct confrontation, absorb the
power, deflect it and redirect the attack.
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With the current contest rules, opponents must grasp each other’s
costume at the beginning of the match. Various tactics and methods
are used to seize the jacket and gain early supremacy over the other.
The shiai rules also state that if too much time is spent on securing the
initial grip, a penalty may be called.
Gripping methods vary with the style and easiness of each player. A
natural grip consists in the normal extension of the arms, slightly bent
and placed at the breast level and at the elbow of the opponent. A
right or left natural posture will favour the loose grip and offer a lesser
surface for the opponent to target. Some players may place one hand
at the rear of the neck and attempt to bend the opponent in order to
induce a reaction that can be taken advantage of. Others will seize
both elbows near the rib cage, hold around the belt, place both hands
on one side of the costume or grip the extremities of the costume near
the wrists.
Regardless of the type of kumi kata chosen, the player must ensure
that both hands work in unison, complementing each other in their
actions. They must be used in unison to secure the angle of the throw
and combine the vector forces on the opponent body. The upper hand
normally serves as the leverage mechanism to partly lift or displace
the upper body over the centre of gravity while the lower hand located
at the elbow is used in a pull-push extension to make the body rotate
in the given direction.
Note that in the first illustration, the elbows are normally kept close to
the body in order to better transfer the strength and avoid offering the
arm as a pole for an eventual arm lock. If the grip is too tight, lactic
acid will form easily and will fatigue the arms. If the arms are
outstretched they will restrict the response movements and signal
unduly to the opponent the displacement of our own body. Note the
holding hand of Professor Kano using a three fingers grip and slightly
bent elbow for better response.
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Gill-Inoue-fighting Prof Kano securing his Kumi Kata Normal Kumi Kata
IJF Archives Kodokan Archives
Whatever the kumi kata chosen, the player must feel at ease with his
guard in order to swiftly move into position to apply a direct technique,
place a counter technique in proper time or take advantage of the
developing situation. Kumi Kata is used for obtaining freedom of
movement while impeding or neutralizing the opponent displacement.
It is the cornerstone from which kuzushi will be applied and the
strategic component to control the free space.
Sometimes, the search for the right kumi kata is so intense that the
players become entangled and make use of direct strength against
each other. I consider freedom of movement to be more important
than the inflexible use a strong kumi kata that will reveal the
intentions of the judoka. Shihan Kano recommended the intelligent use
of strength and I believe that strongly fighting for the advantageous
kumi kata is not conforming to this idea.
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Judo is seen in dynamic actions. During a match, players must observe each other‘s movements and
determine when is the right time to place the attack. That moment will occur when the opponent is
most vulnerable, less powerful or disturbed. This vulnerability can happen by the sheer fact of
moving about, lifting a leg too high, over bending to the side, outstretching the legs too much or
turning the head in the wrong direction. Small actions may produce sufficient inattention or force
the displacement of the centre of gravity to imperil the balance or equilibrium.
If the opponent maintains his composure and balance most of the time, occasions must be found to
break his balance and place him into a vulnerable position. This process is called Kuzushi. There
are eight directions into which the opponent can be placed unbalanced. It is normally referred to as
happo-no-kuzushi. (Front-back, right and left sides, four corners)
Breaking his mental concentration or injecting fear and doubt as to the use of his abilities is also
known as applying Kuzushi.
For matter of simplicity, we can say that there are eight angles or directions from which to apply a
physical kuzushi. The balance can be broken to the front by pulling forward or down. The action of
pushing to the rear will also produce kuzushi. The left and right sides of the opponents are also
vulnerable to the push-pull actions and so are the four half corners when walking. Making use of
these eight directions, applying a direct force or by using the reaction, one is able to redirect, to
absorb, to reflect or evade a displacement initiated by the opponent
Mechanically speaking, the opponent is in a very vulnerable position when his centre of gravity
must move to regain stability. When his body is over stretched or when forced to step out of his
base of support, the opponent can no longer rely on the original pull of gravity to keep his stability.
The body weight is being shifted and new weight distribution is forcing an adjustment to the muscle
group involved. Before the transition begins, there is an instant whereby the muscles get a new
signal to enter into specific functions. It is an appropriate time to launch an attack since the
opponent is vulnerable. He is between two states. The former direction of the pull produced by
gravity is being redrawn and realigned in order to regain stability. Keeping the former stable
position now impossible and entering into a new one will take a microsecond to accomplish.
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During that unique moment of no return, the judoka must apply his kuzushi and maintain
continuous and complementary forces that will prevent the opponent returning to the original
posture. With speedy actions, he will direct that amount of force necessary to take advantage of the
lesser resistance.
Making use of the kumi kata, the arms will perform the push-pull or lift actions in synchronization
with the other forces supplied by the legs and trunk. All these forces shall be added together along
converging vectors resulting in an explosive and coherent attack in the chosen direction.
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Many players know what to do but there are frequent moments of hesitation between the
mental selection of the throw and the actual performance of the throw. During these brief
moments of indecision, or when the technique itself is slow in the making, the opponent
can restore his natural posture and the opportunity for an attack is lost. Sensei Mifune
mentioned in his Canon of Judo that tsukuri is the ability to maintain and deprive the
opponent of this last chance for recuperation.
Some teachers will say that Tsukuri is part of Tai Sabaki but I maintain that it is different;
during the performance of Tai sabaki, contact with the opponent can be broken. In Tsukuri
coordinated efforts need to retain the state of broken balance. Tsukuri will always come
before the actual throw.
The tsukuri is the action of launching the whole body in an explosive movement to exploit
the opponent’s moment of vulnerability before it disappears.
Kake is the action of applying a selected technique chosen from a personal repertoire or
from the Gokyo. In Kake, the mind and the body unite to seize the fleeting opportunity and
deliberately apply the technique that will secure the victory. It is the moment of no return
and of the total commitment. Kake can be performed on several planes: horizontal,
vertical, angular, or spiral depending on the chosen course of action already prepared by
the preceding elements. Kake will give form to the intent. It should be accomplished with
the intelligent use of force.
Sensei Mifune recommended that the judoka practice reading and forecasting the
opponent’s intention before engaging into an attack. Kake must be performed with total
commitment. With it, there is only one ending: the victory.
We normally can identify three elements in the Kake: the control over the opponent, the
approach or positioning and the application of vector forces in the intended direction. The
technique is stored in memory and executed only at the last minute. Its careful and
secretive preparation will begin with the displacement of the entire body either in
advancing (Tsugi ashi-tobi komi), by withdrawing (Tsugi ashi hiki dashi). It will take
momentum in the rotational or angular approaches and will explode in the bending, arching
or lifting actions. (Kake is similar to the crest of the wave; it can only follow the preceding
actions)
Kake may normally lead to the Ippon or victory in the standing match. A victory can also
be secured, by asphyxiation from a choke, a sprained or dislocated joint when an arm lock
is introduced or by abandon. A winner can also be declared through the accumulation of
points obtained with minor techniques and superiority.
Kake in Harai Goshi by Sensei LeBerre Kake in Uki Otoshi Kake in Uchi Mata
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The last element that I was taught is called the Sesshoku, or the action of maintaining
contact and control over the opponent’s fall. The ancient referred to it as the state of Zan
Shin or maintaining awareness till the end of a throw. Sesshoku is considered the end phase
of the throw. It is sometime captured within the definition of Kake.
While the Kake will pull apart the players, the Sesshoku can be regarded as the link
between them. I consider it a safety net deployed to prevent serious injury to the opponent
and guard against sudden actions by an opponent refusing to accept the throw and trying
at all cost to avoid the fall.
The follow up action should guide the fall, maintain the rhythm and place the judoka in a
state of readiness for the next action or opportunity.
Bogyo-shisei tactics performed during the Athens and Sydney games of 2000 and 2004
From the IJF photo gallery archives
In competition, matured players will frequently use evasive tactics to break a fall and avoid
being scored against. Their defence is made of physical interferences and negative actions
called Bogyo shisei.
Upon being thrown, the agile judoka will attempt to turn around in mid air, and perform
somersaults to land on his feet. Some may twist around to fall on the abdomen, land on the
head or used arms extension to bridge and secure their escape. Sesshoku or the action of
maintaining contact with one or both hands will come handy to retain the control over the
flight and secure the proper landing of the opponent.
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Sesshoku being applied by Sensei Koizumi and Sensei Mifune Sesshoku with an arm-lock
By applying Sesshoku at the end of the throwing process, the rhythm is unbroken and
dangerous injuries are avoided. Most Kodansha (senior ranks) recommend holding gently
the costume until the fall is completed. It is therefore essential to consider the use of
Sesshoku in all Tachi- waza since the judo scoring system rest on the final moment of the
throw.
Even in contest situations, Shihan Kano wanted the participants to show respect towards
each other and display care for their mutual safety. His second principle of Mutual
benefits and prosperity has to apply. Sesshoku links with that idea.
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To display flexibility, the judoka has to make intelligent and flexible use of mental energy
and physical strength. Ju or flexible action begins with the natural posture and follows its
path through the rapid adaptation to contest situations. The constant changing of postures
demonstrate the judoka’s flexible responses and its economical use of energy.
When required to perform a kake, the whole body will be enlisted. The concentration of
power will last from a microsecond to three or five seconds at the most. During that time,
each part playing its role to initiate, support and complement the others in making the pull,
the push, the lift or the withdrawal will be summoned. Hands and wrists will be kept loose
and manageable. Arms and legs will be extended or retracted to exercise sufficient impulse
while the thorax will lean in the right angle of the throw. Economy of efforts will be further
realised by proper displacement using Tsugi- ashi and turns. Following the attempt, there
will be an alternate return to an observation cycle during which time another attack and
counter attack will be considered meanwhile saving and storing unused energy.
Part of the flexible entity is illustrated by the wrist joint actions. The wrists are first used to
detect and absorb the opponent’s movements. They will be bent or extended to align
themselves with the judoka’s arms and forearms launching the offensive. In order to have
the greatest freedom of the wrists, the grasping of the opponent’s costume should follow
The normal suggested grip: hold the collar at the shoulder level with the three fingers
(middle, ring and little finger); the index and thumb are loosely touching until the moment
they are required to play a part in the pull-push actions. Meanwhile, the abdominal region
or Hara must be alternately contracted and relaxed to make use of the concentrated
energies residing there. By being aware of the different functions that can be played by the
centre of gravity, the judoka will learn to make better use of it to his advantage both in the
offensive and defensive actions. Understanding the potential of that power centre will
influence the way the judoka will respond to the opponent’s challenge.
Harmony in movement can be expressed by going with the flow. At the randori and shiai
stages too many players forget this important dimension. As soon as they feel a bit of
resistance or strength from the opponent, they respond with similar use of strength and
rigidity. The end result is an endless struggle to capture the grip, to make the opponent
move about, to engage in groundwork or apply strangulation and arm lock techniques.
Responding with strength and showing strength seems to come naturally to most humans
in determining their status or responding to a challenge. While practicing judo, such a habit
must be discarded and make way for the intelligent use of strength. In judo matches,
natural use of strength will emanate from either player. Direct confrontation or smooth
assimilation will identify the wrestler from the judoka.
The judoka using the previous fundamental elements will be able to adapt, avoid direct
confrontation and use the combined strength to his advantage. If the opponent pushes, he
should step sideways or turn while using the power of that push to control the direction.
If the opponent pulls, he should advance rapidly and make good of the closeness. Should
the opponent move about sideways, he should follow and add his own weight to a spinning
or rotational movement. Attentive to capture the mistakes or risks taken by the opponent,
he should rapidly adjust to profit from them. When the opponent pulls down, the judoka
should slip under. When being lifted up, he should try to merge onto the opponent and
overcharge him with his weight thus causing a break in his balance.
If and when the judoka encounters serious difficulties with his practice of the JU concept,
a return to the practice of Kata is recommended. In this later mode of training, he will
rediscover harmony, synchronisation and the use of the other fundamental elements.
Then, the JU action should be resumed in various forms of Randori where different role-
playing is performed.
Ancients have called the technique of the Gods “ Kami- waza” when it is
obtained through the combined application of Kuzushi-Tsukuri and Kake.
Hane Goshi right side on Sensei Mario Rubio Hane Goshi left side at British Army Championship
26
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
Judo in motion
Now that the ten critical factors have been understood, it is time to introduce them into the
practical world of judo. Technical proficiency and mastery will only come from serious and
sustained practice. During the preparation for my competitive years, both Sensei Kawaishi
and Gauthier instructed me to undergo repetitive training of different techniques. These
tokui waza or favourite techniques would then be attempted against a myriad of opponents
and cover a variety of situations.
Following the kakari renshu, the rapid displacement by both players is introduced. Here,
the rhythm and the harmony are critical. Once having understood all the components and
how they fit and interact together, the dynamic exercise know as Yakusoku-geiko will offer
different dynamic applications.
The Japanese term Yakusoku Geiko or Renshu means practicing repetitive and controlled
applications of throwing and receiving a technique when a formal agreement has been
reached between players.
In this kind of exercise, the use of speed, acceleration, shifting the body weight and turning
movements will be added to the technical equation. It is an agreed upon exercise, both
partners take alternatively the role to perform the throw and make the fall. Everyone must
be able to feel the effects of the throw and the results obtained. Having had the chance to
experiment the throw in a semi-controlled environment, the players can now undertake the
next phase: the Randori (free practice).
“The virtues and strength of one can complement and foster those of another.
Accordingly, the situation affords advantages to each of them that they would not
have alone. This is called: Sojo sojou jita kyo ei which mean mutual prosperity
through mutual assistance and concession.” 27J.Kano
27
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
Randori
Randori as a training method is often mixed up with shiai or contest. The Randori was
practiced in both the Kito and Tenjin Ryu. Shihan Kano kept this type of training as a mean
to freely apply the techniques, setup combinations and introduce counters and takedowns.
In Randori, both players attempt to integrate all known factors and deal with new
opportunities and live action-reaction situations. The techniques are applied randomly; at
full speed, from any angle and followed with standing combinations or mat-work. There is
no set limit and the intensity of attack and the use defence tactics may vary in accordance
with rules established between partners at the start. If the exercise of randori is performed
with too much strength and power the players will not have the opportunity to move fast,
develop muscle memory and tone their reflexes.
In randori, the players must take care not to inflict injuries but should take technical risks.
They will attempt techniques on both sides and attack from all directions. It is a time for
experimentation and not a time to establish who is the best competitor. Players should
attempt to anticipate and out-smart not overpower the opponent.
28
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
Shiai or Competition
The many hours of training with collaborating partners will lead to the ultimate test, that of
the true competition or combat situation known as SHIAI. The mental and physical
preparations to Shiai are different from recreational judo. Players must nevertheless
remember the following observation by Sensei Mifune: “The qualities of superior judo are
found in techniques that apply finesse, without the use of extra strength and with a fast
rhythm.”29
Shiai is the formal judo contest between two opponents. It is the ultimate evaluation of
skills being displayed by both contestants. To embark on the contest, means that both
players have accepted to risk it all for the sake of scoring IPPON. Players must show
strong will, determination, confidence, courage and respect. They should be at the top of
their physical, technical and mental states of preparedness. Such Shiai attitude is called
KOKORO.
In Shiai, the Kake and Sesshoku elements are of strategic importance. The former will
need to be executed with utmost speed and determination. The latter should guide the
opponent’s fall to ensure the end of the throw is successfully accomplished or used to take
up new opportunities by following with another technique. Shiai normally follow rigid
rules as to timing, allowed techniques, negative behaviours and permitted techniques.
Periods of being non- aggressive, feigned attacks with no intention to score or lack of
respect towards the opponent are normally penalized.
29
Kyozo Mifune, Canon of Judo, 1956
Shiai brings victories and losses. In this ultimate challenge, both players must find the
occasion to better oneself. Unfortunately, the victory may too often become a vehicle for
vanity, exploitation and the imposition of temporary supremacy over someone else.
Similarly, the loser may find bitterness and rancour. Both kinds of attitudes must be
discouraged in order to meet the second goal of judo: mutual prosperity.
Shihan Kano designed his Kodokan judo as a form of educational system for the mind and
body. Shiai activities were part of the overall system. In 1886, and frequently thereafter,
the Kodokan had to resort to open Shiai against ju jitsu schools to establish its supremacy.
Competitions at various levels: club, zone, district, region, province, national and
international levels have flourished and are now regulated by international rules. Since
1964, Judo is also a competition sport at the summer Olympic Games.
Judo competitions are popular and those who desire to participate must give their best at
all times. Competitors normally follow strict preparation in order to be on top and remain
on top of their skills. Not every Judoka is born for competition. One can reap similar and
lifetime benefits of serious judo encounters without entering into formal shiai. The Randori
or free practice is where most players will find the appropriate platform to evaluate their
skills and tone their techniques.
Only a few judo players will be selected to perform at the higher level of the Shiai route. A
training team made of technicians, coaches, psychologists, nutritionists, doctors and
administrators will frequently accompany the elite. During the training period, the judoka
normally makes a moral contract to always go for peak performance. The will to win set
the elite apart from the rest of the fighters. Taking the initiative will be the prime factor for
the champion to be.
This book is not intended to address all the aspects of training for shiai. General aspects of
the shiai preparation will nevertheless be mentioned to outline the spirit found in shiai.
We will close with the words of Lao Tzu: ”The one wishing to overcome must yield. The
one who is victorious is the one that has negotiated. The one that yields in suppleness is
the disciple of life.”30
30
Lao Tzu, Le Vrai Classique du Vide Parfait, 1961
At the same time, you fight against yourself. If you think the opponent is stronger
than you and get the jitters, or if you are in a difficult position and feel that you
must give up, then it will be impossible to win.
You must not give up the bout until the last instant, no matter how strong your
opponent may be. You must have the fighting spirit which will urge you on to
attack and attack again to the very end”.
For each elite player embarked upon the shiai route, various tactics and strategies will be
elaborated in concert with his entourage. The technical skills will be paired with tactical
approaches that best suit the judoka when facing different opponents. The coaches and
experts following him will study the opponents, dissect the strong points from their
weaknesses and inform the judoka as to what needs to be addressed before the upcoming
contests. The hard training regimes may vary between contestants but all will have intense
physical training, technical skills development and mental attitude preparation.
The ten basic elements mentioned in this book will be applied to each technique with
emphasis on personnel adaptation. Tactics and strategies will be practiced to cover the
match time and use the judoka’s readiness profile at its best. Thousands of Butsukari and
Randori exercises will be performed. Periodic competitions at various levels will be offered
to test the preparedness and ensure all the weaknesses are corrected.
Coaching sessions and discussion periods will constantly review past behaviours and guide
newer approaches. When it is time to enter the shiai, there is no more experimentation. The
player will stand alone before his opponent. His attacks must come before the opponent
has the time to observe and understand the strategy used. When committed, the total body
energy must be applied to the goal at hand. There should be no hesitation. All his past
training will need to be with him for the duration of the encounter. At the end of the match,
there is only one victor.
Fearlessness, determination and courage coupled with physical stamina and technical skills
are the essence of a great champion. Let us reflect on the words of Shihan Kano about the
essence of judo shiai:
“The player should keep calm and open. He has to identify the opponent’s weakness and
fault. He has to capture and exploit the free space produced by the opponent. He must use
them all efficiently and completely.”31
“Develop the capacity to quiet the mind so that you can focus on the technique at
hand.”32
31
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
32
S. Kotani, Judo Kata, 1971
33
S. Kotani, Judo Kata. 1971
In the demonstration format, the technical components are performed with minute details
and within rigid approaches. Some ceremonial dimensions are added to the presentation in
order to make a stronger link with ancient times. The presented techniques are essentially
those performed in ancient schools. Most were designed, tested, improved upon and then
standardized into a set pattern Kata by the former ryu masters. It is through these Kata or
old forms that the ancient Japanese fighting systems, the bugi, were able to survive the test
of time.
Most of the Kata in the Kodokan syllabus were the products of ancient
ju-jutsu schools attended by Shihan Jigoro Kano. They all represent the
heart and soul of the teachings adopted by Shihan Kano. Each
technique has its own basic principle. When properly identified,
understood and mastered, this principle can easily be applied in
several combat situations. The early understanding and proper
execution of the principle will no doubt enrich the judoka’s
performance.
embarked upon at the senior coloured belt rank and will accompany
the judoka throughout his development years until he becomes a
Kodansha.
Kata forms demonstrate the intelligent use of power contained in the first principle:
Seiryoku Zenyo. They offer three specific moments of analysis: the beginning, the passing
through and the end result. The second principle: Jita Kyoei is achieved through the
harmonious routine followed by both players, by the cooperative exchange and the mutual
assistance received. The aftermath is the technical improvement that will be gained.
The Kata gives the raison d’être of the movement. One can then
formulate the best way to initiate it. Kuzushi, Tsukuri and Kake
In the early days of the Kodokan, it is reported that ten Kata had been
singled out for their best representation of forms of attack and
defence. Shihan Kano and the teaching staff headed by Sensei
Yamashita and Nagaoka and others refined the study syllabus to seven
formal sets in 1887. Kata such as the Go no Kata demonstrating the
hard and the soft techniques from the Jigo Tai posture was meshed
within the Nage no Kata or throwing form. Later on, when teaching at
the Waseda University, Sensei Mifune developed a counter technique
kata known as Go-no-Sen-no-Kata used in the preparatory training to
shiai. Although popular, this kata was not retained as an official
Kodokan inspired kata.
The other current kata grouping of the Kodokan are techniques mostly
associated with randori performance. They form part of higher grades
examinations. They are:
Goshin jutsu no Kata by Sensei Mantion and Pearson Juno kata by Sensei
Poirier and Couture
At the Canadian Kata Championships 2006
34
Jigoro Kano, Writings compiled by Naoki Murata, Mind Over Muscle, 2006
CONCLUSION
Practice, practice and practice will remain the foundation of better understanding. When
the basics have been mastered, the judoka will find freedom in technical expression.
35
Myamoto Musashi, Gorin-no-Sho, 1983
Annex A
1956 Beginning of judo instruction in Hull, Québec under the supervision of Bernard Gauthier 4th dan.
1959 Promoted black belt, 1st Dan and became secretary of the Canadian Judo Federation.
1959 Provincial champion FCJ and creation of the Ottawa School of Modern Judo.
1960 Provincial champion and finalist at national championships of the Canadian Judo Federation
Sports writer at the newspaper: Le Progrès de Hull.
1961 New York State open judo champion.
1961 Membership no: 41 at the Académie de judo Kawaishi de Paris.
1962 Promotion to 2nd Dan. Member of the Canadian Kodokan Black Belt Association.
Graduated in Physical Education, University of Ottawa.
Created the dojo of Buckingham, Thurso and Gatineau in Quebec.
1962 Teacher’s assistant at the Victoria Dojo to Sensei Y.Inouye.
1963 Chief instructor at the Calgary dojo with Sensei H. Kanashiro.
1964 Created the Shilo judo club in Manitoba.
1964 Worked towards the integration of military judo within the CKBBA.
1965 Champion of the Canadian Armed Forces.
1966 Champion of the British Army on the Rhine 1966-1967-1968.
1967 Member of the British Judo Association.
1968 Member of the British military team in several international tournaments.
1969 Finalist all categories, British Armed Forces. Promoted to 3rd Dan.
1969 Received the Jean Charles Daoust trophy for best French Canadian Athlete
1970 Opened the Val Cartier dojo in Québec.
1971 Member of the administration for Quebec Kodokan Judo Association 1972-76.
1975 Founder and technical director of the Gatineau dojo.
1980 National Coaching Certificate, level one.
1988 Master’s degree in Public Administration from ENAP.
1993 National Coaching Certificate, level two.
1998 National Coaching Certificate, level three.
1998 Promoted to 4th Dan from the Kodokan Institute of Japan and Judo Canada
2000 Invited teacher at the White Rock dojo in British Columbia with Sensei R. Clemas
2003 Technical director of Chikara dojo in Gatineau Québec.
2004 President of judo zone “ Outaouais ” judo.
2004 Editorial member of Yudansha magazine of Judo Canada.
2004 Promoted 5th Dan from the Kodokan Institute of Japan and Judo Canada.
2005 Zone president and technical director for Ottawa region
2006 Attended the Kodokan Institute international kata training certificate course
2006 Published judo reference books: “Les Mystères du judo” and “The Discovery
of Judo”.
ANNEX: B
References
Trevor Leggett, The Dragon Mask, Ippon Books Ltd, London, UK, 1993
Oscar Ratti, Adele Westbrook, Secrets of the Samurai, Charles Tutle, Tokyo,
1996
Omori Sogen, T.Katsujo, Zen and the Art of Calligraphy, Penguin Group,
New York, 1983
Sakujiro Yokohama and Siguke Oshima, Judo, Nishido Press Tokyo, 1908
2006/ 2009