Hints on Free Practice

Practise all the techniques illustrated so far, as often as possible, on an unresisting partner standing still and then on the move. In randori (free practice) do not let an opportunity for a counter go by. Some people feel that counter-throws are not quite sporting! However, don't let this bother you!






Disregarding opportunities for a counter can become a habit which could easily lose you a contest. Also an attacker will have to sharpen up his throws if he knows a counter awaits them. This makes for all-round, lively judo. As soon as possible, practise your techniques on the move against a resisting and attacking partner.

This free practice is the best way to sharpen up all your techniques. Practise with as many people as possible as many times a week as possible. Try not to waste any time in practice. Do not move around doing nothing, wasting for an opportunity. Make opportunities with constructive movement. If you are not defending or countering you should be attacking or making an opening for an attack. Keep the arms loose. When an opponent attacks, brace suddenly for your defence and relax quickly as soon as the attack fails.