Techniques

The main families of technique

Judo traditionally distinguishes two main families of technique. Nage-waza, the throwing techniques, is divided into hand techniques (te-waza), hip techniques (koshi-waza), leg techniques (ashi-waza) and sacrifice techniques (sutemi-waza), each corresponding to a different way of breaking a partner’s balance and completing the throw. Katame-waza, the groundwork techniques, brings together holds (osaekomi-waza), strangles (shime-waza) and joint locks (kansetsu-waza). Together, these two families cover the core of the technical repertoire taught on the tatami, from beginner to the highest level, and are practised first through uchi-komi — repeating the movement at low intensity — before being expressed in randori, free sparring.

The role of kata

Alongside randori, judo has kept kata: codified sequences that preserve and pass on the discipline’s fundamental principles — balance, control, efficiency of movement — in a form fixed once and for all. Kata is not a static demonstration but a teaching tool: it isolates a single technical principle, often a family of throws or ground controls, so it can be studied with precision, away from the unpredictability of combat. It complements randori rather than replacing it.

Progression through grades

A judoka’s progress is measured in grades, marked by the colour of the belt worn: kyu grades, shown by coloured belts, leading up to dan grades from the black belt onward. This system rewards both technical mastery — throws, ground control, knowledge of the kata — and time spent on the tatami, and it structures judo teaching for all ages, from the youngest beginner to the experienced practitioner. The conditions and procedures for grading specific to the Tunisian Judo Federation are set out in the grade examination regulations.

A practice built on values

Beyond technique, every grading also reflects how a judoka embodies the moral code of judo, on the tatami and off it.