Judo Formal Techniques

This book primarily examines Kodokan Judo nage no kata (forms of

throwing) and katame no kata (forms of grappling), which together form

the randori no kata. The original randori no kata (free practice forms) were

codified in the 1880s, mostly based on techniques and methods Jigoro

Kano, the founder of Kodokan Judo, studied in Tenjin Shin’yō-ryū and Kitōryū

jujutsu. These combat techniques were adapted to conform to the

principles of modern physical education, and played a key role in the

formulation of the larger principles of Kodokan Judo. In addition to throws

and pins, these kata include Judo techniques as varied as strikes, blocks,

escapes from submissions, and joint locks to both the elbow and knee.