STANDING AND THROWING

Throwing techniques are the most visually exciting part of competition judo, irrespective of the stature of the judoka. Competitors combine timing, speed and skill with control to execute some of the most decisive techniques in judo and, when done correctly, these manoeuvres seem almost effortless.
Kuzushi — breaking balance
Successful throwing techniques in judo are based on kuzushi - the breaking or control of your opponent's balance (see next page) it is, however, difficult to break that balance unless you start from a position in which you have control over your own balance.
There are six basic postures, which you should understand before attempting to break balance.

• Natural posture: (Shizentai) you stand in a relaxed, upright position with your feet shoulder-width apart, but not wider.
• Right natural posture: the same position as above, but with the right foot forward.
• Left natural posture: the same position as above, but with the left foot forward.
• Defensive posture: (Jigotai) Again, the body should be upright, but with the feet wider than shoulder-width apart and the knees slightly bent.
• Right defensive posture: the same position as above, but with the right leg forward.
• Left defensive posture: the same position as above, but with the left leg forward.

The breaking of balance is demonstrated standing still. This is even more effective if applied while your opponent is moving.
Although power may seem the most important factor in competitive judo, especially among heavyweight judoka, this power can only be utilized effectively against an opponent of equal strength if the basic
principles of kuzushi are correctly applied.

Kumikata — taking hold
The practice of kumikata (taking hold of your opponent, either on his or her body or their judogi in order to execute a follow-up manoeuvre) is one of the fundamental aspects of judo. Kumikata (see next page) is vital to the success of a move because, without being able to hold correctly, it is very difficult to execute kuzushi (breaking of balance) and to control your movement.
It is very important that you practise your attacking techniques from as many different holding positions as possible as you may only have one chance of getting a hold and maintaining control.

Tai sabaki — body shifting and body control
Is the use of your body to prevent a throw, and can be divided into two categories: the first being avoiding throws and attacks and the second, blocking throws and attacks.
Avoiding an attack
In trying to avoid a throw, it is important to prevent your opponent making body contact as this will allow you space in which to move. It is also important to maintain the correct posture so that you are able to move quickly and efficiently.
Blocking an attack
In blocking throws, you should break your opponent's control of your arms, and use your hips to block the opponent's movements by bending your knees as you rotate your hips. In so doing, you also stabilize your own balance and posture.

KUMIKATA (Taking Hold)

KUZUSHI (Breaking Balance)