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Thirdly, it's not as "pretty" as Judo: the moves are more "direct" and utilitarian and it's missing the kind of graceful, ballet aspect Judo has- and then there are the ugly shorts, red kurtkas, etc.

Fourthly, it's rougher: Sambo is more hardcore than Judo, period.

Fifthly, it originated at the behest of Stalin- history's greatest-ever mass murderer, a man who even killed its founder- plus, it came from a communist country whose culture is alien to ours. Sambo was Soviet, which = bad, Judo was Japanese, which = good (yes I know who fought alongside and against whom in WWII but that's irrelevant; in the minds of many, the above is/was true).

Fifthly, it's too diffuse: what are we talking- punching Sambo or non-punching Sambo? Judo is Judo: no punches, all throws, pure grappling. Sambo is this wicked, gangly Russian beast capable of getting the job done in MANY different ways. As such, it's confusing.

Sixthly: we bow to Kano, an upper class educator who looks serenely down upon us from the heavens. Who made Sambo? Exactly.

Look- PLEASE UNDERSTAND THAT I AM NOT KNOCKING SAMBO, NOR DO I, PERSONALLY, NECESSARILY "FEEL" OR "AGREE" WITH WHAT I'VE JUST WRITTEN. I'm simply offering my opinions/observations/guesses as to why it's not more popular.

Because if I'm honest, it's actually the closest thing to fighting perfection that exists on earth.

Tandoku renshu (practice by yourself) is seriously underrated. Just tell your sensei that it hurts and that you'd like to practice without partners until you're feeling better. You still have three good limbs and should be able to participate in the vast majority of your classes without touching anyone else. Personally I'd go back immediately, if only to spectate and absorb the teachings!

Do you have any judo books? If not I'd start here:
https://www.amazon.com/Kodokan-Judo-Essential-Founder-Jigoro/dp/156836539X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=kodokan+judo&qid=1624284142&sr=8-1

That's what I got from those articles. Here they are:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260249302_Kodokan_judo's_inauspicious_ninth_kata_The_Joshi_goshinho_-_Self-defense_methods_for_females_Part_1

(parts 2 and 3 linked below the first)

The Kata itself is okay, unless you expect to create female warriors with it. That's not what it is meant for.

Study ahead so the information you get in class is less foreign. I'd start here: https://www.amazon.com/Kodokan-Judo-Essential-Founder-Jigoro/dp/156836539X

There are tons of great videos too, anything from the Kodokan should be correct and helpful.

Try practicing "Mindfulness Meditation" along with "Loving-Kindness Meditation" (the two complement each other). There's a great, free, book called "Mindfulness in Plain English" that you can find online. Not only would it address your concerns, but researchers are finding all sorts of benefits from short, but routine, meditation. Meditate for 10-20 mins after class, but also regularly during the week.

I'm glad my comment was helpful. I just wanted to clarify that I was referring to mindfulness meditation when I said that I personally highly recommend it, not /r/Meditation. I think I looked at that subreddit only once or twice so I can't really vouch for it. I learned to meditate from listening to the talks/guided meditations here and reading a book called Mindfulness in Plain English which was released for free online here. I'm scientifically-inclined so I started by reading some articles about the research as well as any publicly-released research papers, then read the book. It's the best manual out there but it does get kinda "woo woo" at times so I skipped over those parts. The guided meditations/talks provided another perspective and cemented everything in my mind.

Pretty girl, believe me: if you aren't winning, you are learning

as /u/porl says, "as you are improving so are your partners. You won't start to magically beat all the others in your class (unless you are super gifted)" or unless you are Yawara!. I, for instance, was very bad in newaza, I loose every time the class was doing some randori. And, one day, I started to win every match in the dojo because I could learn more about techniques every time I get defeated while they didn't, in the long run being defeated gave me an advantage over them.

http://www.worldcat.org/title/bulletin-of-the-association-for-the-scientific-studies-on-judo-kodokan-report/oclc/29457953

This website suggests that there are copies in Washington and California libraries, I would assume the kodokan would have copies in their laboratory or library. Contacting any of those may be a good start.

You might want to see what Eric Shahan has translated and published. For example:

A Collection of Curious Jujutsu Manuals: Volume II https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088K8L33W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_H189FbTB5MPZX

“A collection of five Jujutsu manuals dating from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. All available in English for the first time. A great look at how Jujutsu was taught in Japan. A must for any Jujutsu, Judo or classic martial arts of Japan fan. Book 1: The Inner Mysteries of Martial Arts published 1916. Book 2: Secret Jujutsu Techniques of the Kito School published 1905. Book 3: Solo Training Guide to Jujutsu published 1894. Book 4: An Illustrated Guide to the Secrets of Jujutsu published 1887. Book 5: An Illustrated Guide to Kenpo published in the Edo Era.”

when I was still a white belt I used Judo Reference

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.rdyonline.judo&hl=en_US&gl=US

the ranks that it uses are UK based I think, but I just ignore that part.

Get a Spirit Gi from Amazon. I have 3, one of which has been going strong for 4 years. Literally no point in spending more for a gi when you're a beginner.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spirit-Traditional-Student-Uniform-Cotton/dp/B007XSALOW/

Coach tape by johnson and johnson is my favorite. Strong, pretty sticky and relatively easy to rip with your fingers, decent price. Can be bought in bulk on amazon.

https://smile.amazon.com/Sport-Tape-Size-Johnson-Sports/dp/B00IG0SPBC/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=coach+sports+tape&qid=1572733162&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011&rnid=2470954011&rps=1&s=hpc&sr=1-6

Tried many other brands and they are either over priced due to being marketed towards grapplers, or ridiculously difficult to rip. Or doesn't stick well enough when you start sweating.

It's possible for sure! The reason judo is so great is that it's for everyone. My dad has been doing judo into his 60s and while he avoids doing randori with the hard-charging young bucks these days, he has a fun time just moving around on the mat and playing gently.

There will be some clubs that focus on the competition aspect of the sport, so I would try to do some research and find a good judo instructor that is dedicated to teaching judo and not winning judo competitions. A club that does a lot of kata training (these might be a little more rare) would definitely be a place I would recommend you try as you will have an outlet for learning judo in all its forms without the focal point being how hard and fast you throw someone.

Also I would recommend this book! https://www.amazon.com/Falling-Hard-Journey-into-World/dp/1590307151 It's "Falling Hard" by Mark Law. He's a British journalist who decides to pick up judo on his 50th birthday and he writes about his journey in the sport as a new judo enthusiast. My dad has been playing judo for decades, but he got a kick out of it as an older judoka. He recommends it to all of his judo friends. (I also had the random encounter of running into Mark Law at the Budokwai in London maybe in 2015. He was an incredibly nice guy and was still on the mat 6 years after he published this book!)

Not as important the first day, but afterward I highly recommend a good pair of knee pads. These are the type I use. http://www.amazon.com/ASICS-ZD360-Super-Sleeve/dp/B005ACKNAK/ref=pd_sim_200_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=14QGB2D94H009RS4M423&dpSrc=sims&dpST=_AC_UL200_SR118%2C200_

I use to use this thing: http://www.amazon.com/Martial-Belt-Holder-Natural-Honey/dp/B00MENEIWC/ref=sr_1_27?s=sports-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1441733550&sr=1-27-spons

its pretty cool if youre under 18, but after that I just have a drawer full of medals and belts in my room.

You might like this. 50 year old guy starts Judo, falls in love with it and writes an excellent book about its development and history.

Yup, that experience range where they know enough to be dangerous, but not necessarily enough to be cautious.

Range of motion exercises are definitely reccomended if you aren't doing them already. I neglected those rehab-type activities on some early injuries and a few of my joints are still reminding me.

What are you throwing on it for support? I have used something like this in the past. It helped a little.

I found a free app called judo reference and I've set it up to remind me about techniques to do in randori and their names before training.

Just wear gear.

https://www.amazon.com/KO-Sports-Gear-Wrestling-Headgear/dp/B01M4M098N/ref=sr\_1\_34?crid=1E9R95VHEMADO&keywords=judo+head+gear&qid=1669120809&sprefix=judo+head+gear%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-34

While Kano's book is a good one, there are now better ones out there as techniques have developed and become more refined. The best by far for tachi-waza is Toshiro Daigo's Kodokan Throwing Techniques

When it comes to videos there are a couple of black-white videos of Kano demonstrating techniques I recommend Kodokan's YouTube channel , there they have updated all techniques to the current standard.

Crash pads...

With a good sub-floor they shouldn't be necessary. Furthermore, people tend to think that nagekomi in general is just an extension of ukemi practice. Thows for thee, breakfalls for me, some might say.

However, as u/d_rome mentioned, taking certain throws for 30-60 mins will leave you absolutely wrecked - irrespective of a good floor or ukemi. With the amount of reps certain throws require, you can bet older judoka are going to be risking injury. Think about doing 30 minutes of harai goshi, for instance.

Also, I've seen so many awkward falls from people trying to accurately hit the mat with uke. Sometimes I wonder if its not just a distraction for beginners.

Anyways, there are two pieces of equipment that I feel should optimally be in a well-funded club's inventory over crash mats:

Throwing Dummies - allow you to rep out forward throws with full commitment for static nagekomi. This is also the optimal training implement for ura nage and other "slam" throws.
Wall mats/pads - Allows you to quickly rep out rear throws for static nagekomi. At least one (preferably load bearing) wall should have these.

Ideally, the only time you'd need a crash mat is during moving nagekomi.

Honestly, the finest "encyclopedia of groundwork" I've read is Jiu Jitsu University by Saulo Ribeiro (JJU).

It doesn't focus on the priorities of Competition Judo Newaza, which is primarily turtle attacks and osaekomi retention/escapes. However, it is probably the finest introduction to groundwork for complete beginners and intermediate players ever put to print, and does cover turtle attacks and osaekomi, albeit in an introductory manner.

JJU features excellent photographs/explanations focusing on groundwork fundamentals presented in a systematic, incremental manner. Furthermore, it features the common mistakes for many of the techniques.

The best thing about it is its layout. It organizes itself according to the priorities each "rank" should be pre-occupied with. (Rank being subjective evaluation and not actual rank). Beginners should focus on escapes, reversals, and survival. Beginner-intermediate should be focused on guard retention. Intermediate should focus on guard passing. Intermediate-advanced should focus on pin positions and attacks. Advanced should focus on chaining submissions.

There is substantial enough overlap with Judo here to constitute a buy for any Judoka.

I’ve always found Koji Komuro’s work to be my newaza gold standard. Kashiwazaki is my original hero, but Komuro has some unique stuff that he teaches well. He has a really helpful book out too: https://www.amazon.com/JUDO-NEWAZA-Koji-Komuro-KOMLOCK%EF%BC%81English/dp/4990875907

I disagree. There are sources though https://newspapers.library.in.gov/cgi-bin/indiana?a=d&d=IJ19040314.1.4 And his autobiography States he trained for a year or two https://www.gutenberg.org/files/3335/3335-h/3335-h.htm.

I mean it's still possible that him and everyone else could be lying but your bar for truth is ridiculously high at that point. Short of seeing a picture of him in a brown belt or seems.

How little you actually know about judo yet talk to people like your the only true knowledge in judo. What’s you’re rank and under whom???

https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Kano-Jiu-Jitsu-Judo/dp/0486443434

No I don't think it was intended to be religious or spiritual. Maybe some people get this from judo but I don't think it has anything to do with what the founder intended. It has its roots in Bushido and Samurai spirit but it certainly was a very modern school of thought in the year 1882.

Founder Pro. Jigoro Kano was a very modern man. I highly recommend reading up on his life works. He was more than just the founder of Judo. He was heavily involved in the Japanese education system as well as being on the Olympic Committee. (Well before Judo was an olympic sport).

He developed judo as a form of education and was working hard getting it into the schools to build all those good traits like displine, respect etc.

I recommend reading this book:

Judo Memoirs of Jigoro Kano

It is a little dry to read at times but really gives you an understanding of what Pro. Jigoro Kano had in mind when developing judo. He was a no nonsense, highly educated modern type of man.

This is what I could understand from my limited reading and research over the years. There is probably a more worthy explaination floating around :)

Good luck in your judo journey.

>You're afraid to enter to use your techniques.

YES! Absolutely this! It's been a while since I trained so I couldn't work out your issues but this rings so true.

If it helps: pick a strategy before you fight and no matter what: Use that strategy. When I first started I never strategised and my head would go blank once the fight started. I completely forgot every throw and just reacted to my opponent. This isn't a winning strategy.

You have to attack and not just react.

Pick a strategy like "ogoshi and if I'm countered, spin and kouchi gari". Then when you start you don't have to "think". If they do counter you or nullify and throw you it's fine! It's good! You're learning.

If you want some ideas on how to start you may find this book a good starting point: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Attacking-Judo-Combinations-Counters-interest/dp/0951845594

Pick a different throw each fight. Think of paired throws you can use if it's countered. Liuke my example above where you spin and counte rinto kouchi - it works well because they pull back against your ogoshi so when you spin fast they aren't expecting to go that way.

Over time and more matches you'll learn what works and what doesn't.

Once you're feeling more confident start thinking about what your favourite throws are and how you can use those throws as counters to your opponents throw. Another example in one of my earliest matches was when someone went to ogoshi me I slid into a perfect position to tani otsohi them.

I'm a big believer in getting ace at a few throws rather than good at many. There was a famous judoka who trained tai otoshi against a tree for hours a day. It served him well.

This is what I went for. I use a fabric brace under it for comfort and a loose fabric brace on top just to ensure there's nothing people can get caught on. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Thx4COPPER-Brace-Adjustable-Stabilizers-Compression-Recovery-MCL-Tendonitis/dp/B08GP33C3F/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?keywords=mcl%2Bbrace&qid=1658941965&refinements=p_72%3A184325031&rnid=184307031&s=drugstore&sr=1...

This is the best English language book on judo in my opinion

The author is legendary and it’s the same prestigious Japanese publisher (Kodansha)

It’s been out of print for more than 15 years and prices are around $200

I have no idea why kodansha isn’t reprinting it. They’d make a nice profit

See if you can find the English version of this one. I really like the detailed description of techniques. And it also showed how brutal the Japanese high school judo culture is. Gentle way my ass.

https://www.amazon.com/%E6%9F%94%E9%81%93%E9%83%A8%E7%89%A9%E8%AA%9E%EF%BC%88%EF%BC%91%EF%BC%89-%E3%83%A4%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B0%E3%83%9E%E3%82%AC%E3%82%B8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%83%9F%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF%E3%82%B9-Japanese-%E5%B0%8F%E6%9E%97%E3%81%BE%E3%81...

Your doctor, unless you find one who does judo or parkour or gymnastics, won't be much help.

You'll probably need to develop a regular practice of yoga or Feldenkrais or something else to help with injury prevention. Probably everyone should do this.

>Steve was the greatest ever because he had Ninja stars and Nunchaku. My friend Jeff had a ninja sword. My parents would never let me have any of that.

Its never too late!

Nunchuks

Ninja Sword

I had the same problem. /u/milanosambo is right about using the lower fingers to grip and not being stubborn. But I use tape.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07CBFB63P/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1&psc=1

I found it does help.

END COMMUNICATION

I suffered from neck pain for about 2 years (with herniated discs and burning sensation in my hands) that only went away completely after I read one of Robert McKenzie books. Not only did I learn to treat myself, but I also learned to prevent getting hurt again. This is his book for the back: Treat Your Own Back https://www.amazon.com/dp/0987650408/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_NZJ41N3BR9JJHS3HTT5Q

Robert's method is good, but I found it lacking in strengthening exercises. I added those in a way that wasn't hurting me and healed both, nerves and muscles permanently.

I'd recommend reading this book to understand how to treat and prevent the pain.

Cliff Keen classics work the best and are soft for your partner https://www.amazon.com/Cliff-Keen-E58-Headgear-Color/dp/B001GKZSSM/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=2HFQWKMROLURM&keywords=cliff+keen+classic&qid=1648959915&sprefix=cliff+keen+class%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-4

This one is very good, and still in print.

https://www.amazon.com/Judo-Training-Methods-SOURCEBOOK-Martial/dp/0804832102

SUPERBJJ Jiu Jitsu Grip Trainer | BJJ Exercise Resistance Bands Training System - Improve Grappling Grip Power, Endurance, and Performance https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0913K1WB7/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_XG63PHWM35QGCXHEVWDS

FWIW, you might like this old thread on r.m.a which discusses some of this.

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/rec.martial-arts/foV6Z8-XgYY

There's a thread somewhere on r.m.a that discusses specifically the mechanics of spiking someone onto their head; search for Eismachden as the OP

PS: Just realised that thread was from 2001. Now I feel old :)

According to a Sumo Manga I've started reading yesterday yes.

That sumo move where they bull rush with their head is apparently a real move, at least the protagonist in the manga does it a lot...

https://www.mangaupdates.com/series.html?id=111351

If you are interested, in mid 2019, I was interviewed on a podcast about my recent journey back into Judo, and I go into some of what you are asking about in quite some detail.

I am a bit self-conscious about posting this here (which is why I have not done so up to now), but in for a penny, in for a pound

My episode is No. 48

https://tunein.com/podcasts/Sports--Recreation-Podcasts/Time-For-Your-Hobby-p1154178/?topicId=132552127

>I have a grappling dummy I use to practice newaza techniques on and a limp, lightweight dummy just doesn't work for practicing throws.

It sounds to me like you have a grappling dummy, not a throwing dummy. They are very different tools. The latter is nominally and functionally better for throwing, since it is a stiff, vaguely anthropomorphic implement. I also have a grappling dummy and I can't do squat worth of stand-up with it because its meant to bend where joints do (badly, admittedly).

Can you show me the dummy you have?

>...you don't seriously believe that do you? You even contradict yourself in the last line. A stationary human body is not a limp one, there's constant tension throughout the legs and torso that a dummy cannot replicate.

If you are referring to a "Grappling Dummy" (see above) then you are right. But a throwing dummy is, just as I said, like throwing a static, compliant partner. It's not a 100% emulation, but it absolutely serves the purpose of providing a weighted target, which is ostensibly what uke is in static nagekomi. If you use proper technique, you have much to gain and nothing to lose from using a dummy.

If you are in the U.K. this is your best option

Judo Training Uniform 550grm Spirit Sports 100% Cotton https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007XSALL0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1JFGY2HHWQ4MXQTD46Q3

Under 30 pounds, 550g and 4.5 stars on Amazon from 370 reviews. Meant to be really good for the price, been thinking of picking one up myself

Tannion 6 Piece Forearm & Hand Grip Strengthener Set | Hand Strengthening Training Set | Finger and Wrist Strengthener with Adjustable Resistance | Strength Training Equipment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GK78SN2/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_X5AD9AJHZ158SRV0DSKK

Something like this

I suggest looking at Amazon.com for single weave Judo gis. This one will run you $39 before tax. It's the cheapest one I could find.

Osoto is the #1 killer of ACL's according to this Japanese study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sentaro_Koshida/publication/23555880_The_common_mechanisms_of_anterior_cruciate_ligament_injuries_in_judo_A_retrospective_analysis/links/00463532fb8a14926e000000.pdf

I completely tore my ACL from getting hit with a bad osoto. The reap was across the side of the knee, there was no kuzushi and my attacked leg was unweighted, I felt the impact and attacked leg foot felt "stuck" to the mat, partner stepped onto his reaping leg (osoto otoshi) increasing pressure against my knee, my knee buckled inward then POP! I wasn't even thrown. Just blew apart my knee and I crumpled down in pain.

I really disagree. Stand up / throwing Grappling dummies are great if you have the discipline and space. I would argue they are FAR better than uchikomi bands at teaching someone grips, footwork, position, and entries for almost all of the throws. They also teach commitment to throws, which is critical, but somewhat difficult to train with a live partner that doesn't want to take 20 consecutive throws. I know my accuracy and speed have improved from dummy work.

It should be said, that a throwing dummy is different from a grappling dummy, in that they don't fold over and can stand with a little support.

For example, for Judo, you want this and NOT THIS.

He is a legend. Met him a couple of times. Super cool guy. Read https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Ali-vs-Inoki-Forgotten-Entertainment/dp/1942952198&ved=2ahUKEwj9vNKApoT1AhWZjokEHb1QAU0QFnoECGcQAQ&usg=AOvVaw191WmoTNUbxuVmXcplxOvd by Josh Gross. While the book is about that fight, it serves as a kind of unofficial biography of LeBell.

I used a chemical called Blueing. For real.

Mrs. Stewart's Concentrated Liquid Bluing, Non Toxic Laundry Whitener, 8-ounce Bottle (Pack of 2) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B009M7ESPA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_P7E4JTZ5NFE77WJCT678

I would suggest a Tomas Cleary translation

https://www.amazon.com/Book-Five-Rings-Japanese-Shambhala/dp/1590302486

Thomas also has a good translation/book on Bushido.... if you'd like further insight into the culture/mentality foundation of judo.

https://www.amazon.ca/Code-Samurai-Translation-Shoshinshu-Shigesuke/dp/0804831904/ref=pd_sbs_26/131-1216547-5780766?pd_rd_w=bPylZ&pf_rd_p=01fdeee8-dd76-431b-910b-f00bfed49bd2&pf_rd_r=B1H16139WBK5B8202KRE&pd_rd_r=56d6ed2b-fe8f-4c45-a974...

William Scott Wilson translation is also good.

Don't get Stephen Kaufman.

Ten bucks at Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Championship-Judo-Tai-Otoshi-Uchi-Gari-Attacks/dp/1911467115/ref=sr\_1\_29?crid=H6BRYIXQBVVL&keywords=judo&qid=1639721033&s=books&sprefix=judo%2Cstripbooks%2C666&sr=1-29

NP dude. Don't give up the quest to become the next Robert Van De Walle (Warning: shameless plug for his excellent book).

I think the best way to make a Te / Kata Guruma game work is to have a few "bridge techniques depending on which way uke defends:

Te Guruma -> Sasae-Tsurikomi-Ashi -> Kata Guruma

Te Guruma -> O Uchi Gari -> Kata Guruma

Sorry about being late to the party. Tohoku Judo in Somerville (Boston area) is fantastic. Their website (linked) has a training schedule.

https://sites.google.com/a/tohokujudo.org/tohoku-judo-club/

Mr Lee first trained judo as a gym class at the U of Washington, I believe, shortly after he arrived in the US.

You’re referring to Wong Jack Man. Whole books have been written about that incident, like

Showdown in Oakland: The Story Behind the Wong Jack Man - Bruce Lee Fight https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AR0KE1I/

While some consider Mr Lee The Godfather of MMA, I do not agree. Hundreds of Brazilians were fighting vale tudo matches in the early 20th century, for example. Even someone like Mitsuyo Maeda (a judoka who fought hundreds of NHB matches) has a better claim to that “title.” He just didn’t make any movies.

also try a few other free local directories, they only take a second to claim either through a postcard or phonecall verification. Examples: Yelp, Yellow Pages, Manta - Here are some more

FYI, it's back up. I've been downloading it for the last 8hrs using WinHTTTrack. 5gb so far...taking bets as to the final file size? :)

If you want to grab all those old posts before they vanish again, use the following

https://www.httrack.com/

Back in high school, I hated wearing a full on mouth guard for my braces. Wore these instead.

https://www.amazon.com/COMFORT-LIP-SHIELD-MOUTH-GUARD/dp/B00H2S7TC0

My judo coach worked in the dental field in some capacity (think he made molds or other stuff) and he gave these to me to use as soon as I got braces.

There's a good book that covers the story of a guy starting Judo at the age of 50. It's a great read in itself and might cover some realities and what to expect.

Mark Law, Falling Hard: A Journey into the world of Judo (also published as the Pyjama Game)

> On his fiftieth birthday, British journalist and self-described “indolent sportsman” Mark Law decides to take up judo on a whim and ends up getting hooked on the sport. Falling Hard is Law’s love letter to judo—the culture, drama, history, and practice. With journalistic zeal, he delves deeply into the sport’s history and lore, and interweaves his own judo experiences with the development of judo in Japan, the life and vision of its founder Jigoro Kano, the export of judo to the West, the emergence of women in the sport, and detailed descriptions of competition on the world championship and Olympic levels.

> Law’s account is as much for the sports writing fan and armchair enthusiast as for the judo practitioner. With humor and skill, he describes grueling training sessions and matches (including his own), famous Olympic bouts, and legendary rivalries between judo players and national teams, and he speculates on the future of the sport.

Train your fingers, just like we workout our legs to resist the loads of fighting, you should strengthen your hands and fingers. I've used this for years and my grip cannot be broken (PROHANDS PRO Hand Exerciser, Finger Exerciser (Hand Grip Strengthener), Spring-Loaded, Finger-Piston System, Isolate and Exercise Each Finger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000UMFT22/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_GHB21T1P4Z75A7YZPFHH).
There is usually no need to hold on to a grip to the death of you, if your oponnent is trying to break it desperately, just let go and re grip.
Most importantly, learn to use your grips as "hooks" and not as a balled fist squeezing for dear life.

Boxing Ankle Socks/Supports seem like a good option

Best Judo by Isao Inokuma and Nobuyuki Sato is one of my favorites. Both are former World Champions, with Inokuma also being an Olympic champion while Sato was Yamashita's coach at Tokai. They present a solid overview of common throws, combinations, and useful newaza. They also write about their Judo journey and competition stories at the end of the book. It's very interesting to hear their perspectives. You can find cheap, used copies in good condition.

if you want the most comprehensive guide on every single stand technique, Toshiro Daigos "Kodokan throwing Techniques" is your best pick. Daigo is a 10th Dan and was head Trainer at the kodokan for a long time (+ the publisher of Monthly Judo essays), and this book shows.

It got every single kodokan throw, each with 3-4 pictured variations (most of it that i tried myself even though i never heard of them, and they all somehow work) and detailed information on execution and the background of it.

But if you were searching more for the principles or the Philosophy/History/Modern appliances on tourneys, then its probably not the right book for you.

Agreed that people overlook kuzushi (and ukemi, for that matter).

Here's a paste of what I wrote a year ago:

Note that kuzushi is poorly translated as breaking balance. While balance can be an element of it, u/hackerhaus defines kuzushi in his martial arts language book (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072QKLGYH/) as "causing a destabilization of the structural integrity of someone's body, causing a weakening or collapse of the structure." In the past, he has also explained it as “undermining the foundation” of someone's structure. Here's another angle: https://www.bestjudo.com/blog/19258/khadaji/kuzushi-beginning-and-advanced-concepts

I don't think this is correct. Heiho Sanjugu-kajo (heiho 35) was handed down as a transmission scroll in the main Niten Ichi-ryu line. GoRin-no-sho was given to his student Magonojo who used it in his splinter school in Fukuoka but nowhere else. Gorin-no-sho is very much a book of strategy for a warrior to read, a grasp of warrior arts might be needed to get the most out of it but you dont need to be a Niten Ichi-ryu practitioner to make sense of it. I highly recommend The complete Musashi by Alexander Bennet https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Musashi-Definitive-Translations-Writings/dp/4805316160/ref=sr\_1\_1?dchild=1&keywords=book+of+five+rings+bennett&qid=1630486741&sr=8-1

For what it's worth, I've owned this book for close to 20 years:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Z-Judo-Special-interest/dp/1874572704

I assume that not much has changed between editions. Mine even includes a few techniques that have been 'illegal' in competitions for decades - like spine locks, wrist locks and leg-locks - because they have some historical relevance to Judo.

Always thought it was a great book.

Shadow fighting. That's pretty much doing the techniques you love without a partner, just working on the movement of yourself including "gripping" and after you understand the concept, do this in motion
Also workout on stamina and strength, ie workout. I personally go for the gym, but if you don't like the gym or you are underaged, than just go on runs, do pushups and pullups and squats and do an all around workout for you body, there are great YouTube guides for that, like this one

https://youtu.be/6VFLKdfxA24

Just make sure you give yourself a break after 2 days in a row

Work on your breathing. You don't need more than 2 practices of 2 minutes each, this will help to control your nerves because even a calm person stress out.

I recommend this app, very easy to use and you customize settings to your liking:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.achimsapps.breathe

One book that I found helpful was Zen and the Ways - Trevor Leggett

Trevor Pryce Leggett (22 August 1914 – 2 August 2000) was a British judo teacher, author, translator, and head of the BBC's Japanese Service for 24 years. He was one of the first Europeans to study martial arts in Japan. Leggett served in the Ministry of Information during World War II. After the war, he taught judo at the Budokwai and worked in Japanese language services at the BBC. He held the title of Shihan, and the rank of 6th dan in judo from the Kodokan. Leggett helped introduce Japanese culture to the United Kingdom, and was honoured for this by being inducted into Japan's Order of the Sacred Treasure in 1984. He also produced many works on Eastern philosophy.

dude,it's called Koryu Jujutsu and it still exists in Japan.

Judo was created from multiple Koryu Jujutsu schools and one of them is tenjin shinyo ryu:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=q89jmo_aBPA

as for the book,I can recommend you Ellis Amdur Sensei's Old School:essays on japanese martial traditions book.

https://www.amazon.com/Old-School-Japanese-Traditions-Expanded/dp/193743916X?ref_=d6k_applink_bb_marketplace

Kano Jigoro was the Soke(Grandmaster) of Kito Ryu Jujutsu and Koshiki no Kata of Judo comes from that school.

I bought a sack of resistance bands off amazon that I use for uchikomi. It's so good. You can even vary the resistance for different kinds of uchikomi training.

This is the kind I got. But they aren't on prime anymore, so I'd shop around a little.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/189164078X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_ysXRFbV5S59K4

I bought this book as well as The Art of Ground Fighting and The Art of Striking. They are very detailed. They have clear sequenced photos as well as written instructions and explanations for what you're attempting to achieve and why it works.

here's one of the books he contributed to.

https://smile.amazon.com/Judo-Kata-Practice-Competition-Purpose/dp/1893765350/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=lance+gatling&qid=1601174132&sr=8-1

One of my students is a string professor at a major university. His son also trains with us and he is a string player also. I warned them early on about the possibility of dislocated fingers. They taped their fingers at each practice, but then they discovered these gloves. The possibility of injury isn’t zero, but they provide a little more protection. So far so good—and they are both green belts.

https://www.amazon.com/Grappz-Finger-Alternative-Compression-Gloves/dp/B07C7MCH4B/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=bjj+gloves&qid=1597866115&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExTDdTTUNOMlBYSExNJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkP...

I actually enjoy mine. I bought the cheapest unfilled one I could find on Amazon ($40- kind of like this cheapo one). I suspended it with bungee cords from a hook so it "stands up". Obviously since its connected I can't throw and the kuzushi is a little light but I like it for body position and distancing...its also more fun for me. I do reps with the uchi komi bands for conditioning then some on the dummy (heck, you could rig up the bands with the dummy too probably). But I will recommend not filling it up with anything too heavy (like rubber mulch) because mine is already ripping from the weight in the legs!

And of course its great for working newaza drills.

That’s like Tokai way: judo winning method? Something like that?

This?

東海大流柔道勝利のメソッド：世界レベルの選手を多数輩出する指導者が教える試合運びを劇的に変える考え方と技術の身につけ方 Amazon Services International, Inc.による詳細はこちら: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B07VWVRXVX/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_awdo_MhzoEbWPMXH97

Was thinking about this 8-pack from Kuzushi Labs: White Finger Tape (8 Pack) with Case for BJJ, Grappling, Judo, Climbing 0.3" x 45 Feet by Kuzushi Labs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07LCMZ5PH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Pe6aEbYYPX7EX

I occasionally wear low cut martial arts shoes. So long as they are only worn on the mats, your instructor probably wouldn't mind. Ask first, though.

These are what I have. You can find other brands cheaper that are just as good. https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Martial-Taekwondo-Karate-Kungfu/dp/B00OMC5TRG

other than what everyone else mentioned here.

I have one of these. I have it by my desk so I just squeeze it while I'm working or whenever I'm watching videos etc.

https://smile.amazon.com/Prohands-Gripmaster-Strengthener-Spring-Loaded-Finger-Piston/dp/B07T9V2TTX/ref=pd_sbs_328_5/133-3739761-2094859?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07T9V2TTX&pd_rd_r=a4050396-99d0-11e9-8620-e795d73e6515&pd_rd_w=4KbwZ&p...

Thanks, bozo.

Just ordered that, and it brought to mind this one, too, about a vicar's wife who decides to get her black belt (cannot remember which MA). Apparently it is very funny.

https://www.amazon.ca/Fight-Good-Vicars-Killing-Machine/dp/0224077708/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=judo+vicar&qid=1558727179&s=gateway&sr=8-1

If you do some searches on no-gi fighting, or no-gi judo, you should come up with some answers to that question from people more qualified than I to answer it.

I think that judoka, and former MMA fighter, Karo Parysian has written a whole book about that.

This could be the book

Judo for Mixed Martial Arts: Advanced Throws, Takedowns, and Ground Fighting

This is an ebook. I have no affiliation with Clint Wattenburg. It is a 96 page book.

This one is also really good but not as to the point and more expensive. https://www.amazon.com/Grapplers-Guide-Sports-Nutrition/dp/0977430901

I have acquired about 21 hard copy judo books (and many PDFs) since my return to judo about 3 months ago, and find, as a relative beginner, that the best explanations of techniques are from the following:

'The Handbook of Judo: An Illustrated Step-by-Step Guide to Winning Sport Judo' by Gene LeBell and L.C. Coughran (out of print, but worth acquiring in hard copy). Clear, good photos, and well laid out. This is a regular (pocket) sized, thin paperback - handy size for travelling. N.B. There is a similarly titled 'Gene LeBell's Handbook of Judo: A Step-By-Step Guide to Winning in Sport Judo', and I am not sure whether it is the same book, or perhaps, un updated edition, but it is available relatively cheaply.
'The Techniques of Judo' by Shinzo Takagaki and Hal Sharp (still in print, and cheap). This is an 'oversized' book - but thin/light weight - and is very well laid out, with clear photographs. Look insides 'The Techniques of Judo' here (cheapest price is for the Kindle edition) 'The Techniques of Judo'
'The Illustrated Guide to Judo: The Complete Gokyo of Throwing Techniques Fully Illustrated' by Tony Reay and Geoffrey Hobbs.
'The Manual of Judo' by E.J. Harrison (out-of-print, older, classic book). PDFs available if you look (see my other recent posts).

I have to make clear that the LeBell and Sharp books do not contain the complete Gokyo, but I do not think that matters, as they explain the theory and practical application of waza (techniques) so well, and are so affordable, that it would almost be a crime to not buy them. Also, the Reay and Hobbs book is 1979 (maybe there were more recent editions or printings). This book contains mostly illustrations, but is very well done.

I should also say that I think that one simply has to have the 'Kodokan' Kano book, and certain others, too.

Honestly, I'd invest in a crash pad if you mostly want it for ukemi or taking throws. If you want to be able to do randori then 2-3" folding mats will be nice.

Are you in the US or CA? If so, you could get a decent enough crash pad here: https://www.amazon.com/We-Sell-Mats-Bi-Folding-Landing/dp/B00FPSCVXQ/ref=sr_1_8_sspa?keywords=crash+pad+judo&qid=1552116780&s=gateway&sr=8-8-spons&psc=1

Grab a Fuji on Amazon, they're usually Prime-eligible as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Fuji-Judo-Uniform-White-4/dp/B00GII1K48/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1529963119&sr=8-1&keywords=fuji+judo+gi

Maybe checkout Falling Hard

It has a lot of stories throughout the history of Judo and the authors experience learning Judo, maybe has some stuff that would be fun to talk about.

I'm about 3/4 eat through it and find a fun read.

Yoga mats or puzzle mats are not as expensive as Judo mats, but might do the job, depending on their thickness and the floor underneath.

Example of a Yoga mat:

https://www.amazon.com/Reehut-Density-Exercise-Pilates-Carrying/dp/B01CTRKO6Q/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1510296714&sr=1-3-spons&keywords=yoga+mat&psc=1

Puzzle mats:

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Dsporting&field-keywords=puzzle+mat

I have a home dojo and I have these mats from the Amazon seller - We Sell Mats

I have about 14 ft x 12 ft. They are super light, foldable, and you can most definitely throw on them (no makikomis or anything crazy though). They are way more forgiving than traditional tatami mats.

They use the same type of foam (3 different densities, the most dense at the top) as the new style roll out mats which make them lighter, firm to stand on yet absorbant.

Hope that helps.

My first gi since I started judo a month ago. So far so good.

Fuji Judo Gi

heres some extra stuff i pack in my bag

lots of tape
extra belt, underwear and change of shirt
surgical scissors to quickly cut the tape off after sessions
kneepads / shin guards for spazzy white belts
this mesh bag to dump my sweaty gi, gear and clothes in after a session so it can breathe on the way home.
tiger balm and some muay thai liniment I use for my shins from cross training muay thai. (also for training through sore muscles, I use this sparingly though)
mouth guard
gatorade powder
towel to wipe down afterwards / lay on my car seat

This book is very expensive but it's a pretty revolutionary book on Newaza. It's from the legendary Anton Geesink, the first foreigner to become a world judo champion. If you got the money, I recommend this

Is there a good clip of him (Yamashita ) that you like? Randori better than shiai maybe?

PS: They talk about this sort of judo hara training / control in the "Fighting Spirt of Japan". I'll take a photo after I work out tonight so folks can read it.

It's a good travelogue; sort of like The Last Samurai but more real :)

https://www.amazon.com/Fighting-Spirit-Japan-Esoteric-Martial/dp/0879511427

Wow what a great deal! I'd buy one for that price right this moment. Sadly if I google for that same thing I get https://www.amazon.com/Fuji-Double-Weave-Judo-Uniform/dp/B00GII15Q6?th=1&psc=1 which is $95.00 for size 7. Congrats!

I am a beginner also ( 4 KYU, Orange belt here ) and have found the kodokan book a good start.

This is a book that has a lot of basic info and try to teach some of the concepts of giving way instead of counter pushing. Also have a good show with pictures and text of all the throws and several newaza techniques.

If anybody else knows more beginner / intermediate books for judo i would appreciate it!

https://www.amazon.com/Kodokan-Judo-Essential-Founder-Jigoro/dp/156836539X

I have these from Amazon in my basement.

They are firm enough to move on, and take breakfalls. Great for rolling. Pretty good price. Really Really light weight, so you can fold them and put them away if needed.

I don't know if anyone else will see your question and I usually don't chime in on gi-buying discussions, since I am not familiar with the brands available in North America, but I suggest going to Amazon (even if you don't intent to buy there) and use their customer ratings to find a product.

You could try this one for example (may come without belt though):

https://www.amazon.com/Fuji-FW-0-PARENT-Uniform-White/dp/B00GMC9S3A/ref=pd_sim_200_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00GMC9S3A&pd_rd_r=0NKV28VWNSVGHDTQ1BRR&pd_rd_w=6jfX0&pd_rd_wg=EIRH3&psc=1&refRID=0NKV28VWNSVGHDTQ1BRR

I use one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006FFD52Y/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Under $200, doesn't fall apart. Long enough at eight feet to practice forward rolls and side breakfalls.

>I only read unbiased sources, everyone who disagrees with me gets their information from memes and youtube.

well that's not what i said now, is it? i do get my facts via research and i asked where the person i was replying to got his.

where did you source your data? here's one very good book on the topic that i have read, https://www.amazon.com/History-Israeli-Palestinian-Conflict-Indiana-Islamic/dp/025322070X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1471037331&sr=1-1

I've had Kodokan Judo Throwing Techniques on my shelf for years. It's structured like an encyclopedia, every technique gets a section in turn, and it goes fairly deeply into each technique. It's a great resource if you've been thinking about a technique and really want to drill down (mentally) on it.

Yes, the standard Judo Textbook!

I don't think there really is a Judo equivalent of the Hapkido book that the OP had mentioned (I have it myself); that book is a TOME of knowledge and it would be rare to find such a comprehensive book on any other martial art style IMO.

My personal favorite Judo book would be Attacking Judo.

Wow, didn't realize the price went up that much! It's a compact little book, it's not for beginners but dang if it isn't simple an full of useful knowledge.

Edit: I do have one other book that I would recommend, but it's not in English . . ..

The Fuji double weaves are around $90. It's what I usually wear, very comfy and durable. My first was a single weave and it really chafed my neck at the collar because it was more flexible, to the point that the collar would be getting pretty bloody. The stiffer double weave has been much better about it, plus as mentioned they're harder to grab. The better double weave gis are downright difficult to take a good lapel grip on, especially if they're sized right.

IMO the double weaves are worth a bit extra, especially the budget ones like the Fuji I linked (their higher end ones are nice as well). I should have just gotten one from the beginning.

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