Judo is a Japanese martial art that utilizes a variety of throws, takedowns and grappling maneuvers to immobilize and subdue an opponent. Unlike other unarmed martial arts, such as karate or kung fu, judo drills are nearly always practiced with a partner or another martial artist. To gain the most benefit from your drills, be sure to select a judo partner of roughly similar skill and ability.
Ukemi
According to Neil Ohlenkamp of the Judo Information Site, ukemi is an essential judo practice that helps prepare the body for a multitude of techniques and maneuvers. Considered practice falling, ukemi drills can be performed in combination with specific throwing and takedown techniques with your partner. Warm up by practicing falling on your own from a low position such as a squat or kneeling posture. Once you and your partner are ready to begin performing ukemi, select a basic takedown maneuver, such as a koshi waza hip throw, and take turns throwing the other person. After being thrown or otherwise taken to the ground, perform a roll using your body's momentum and quickly stand back up, away from your opponent. For solitary practitioners, a ukemi drill can contain a sequence of forward rolls followed by break falls that require safely falling on your back.
Nage-no-Kata
The Nage-no-kata is a collection of 15 different throwing techniques that practice different throwing and grip styles in succession. While all 15 techniques are commonly demonstrated for a shodan rank, beginning judo students can form a Nage-no-kata drill by selecting a single throw and alternating between the right and left posture with each turn. If you and your opponent are sufficiently skilled, you can add and alternate different throws, such as the ashi waza foot throws or te waza hand throws, to keep the drill mentally engaging. Try to maintain a constant pace and energy flow as you perform this drill, quickly rolling and recovering each time one of you in brought to the ground.
Randori
The North Star Judo website recommends the freestyle sparring drill of randori for students seeking to improve their fighting abilities. The randori drill begins by squaring off with your opponent, and can continue as long as necessary until one opponent is either brought down to one leg, called kuzushi, or entirely to the ground. Since judo is primarily considered a grappling art, this drill is an effective of learning how to quickly and efficiently bring your opponent to the ground in a position that gives you the upper hand. This drill can be practiced with minimal breaks for periods up to an hour for an effective mental, cardiovascular and strength training workout.
Safety Considerations
Like all grappling arts, judo carries a significant risk of injury. Always practice your drills on a padded surface or exercise mat, and wear a groin protector or mouth guard when sparring. If you are new to judo, ask your sensei to supervise the beginning of each drill to make sure you are performing the kata correctly. Finally, talk to your doctor if you have a health condition or injury which may impact your ability to engage in judo drills.
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