Judo rules - the super-simple version!

Contest Judo rules can be quite complex and the way referees are told to enfore the rules is constantly changing. Below is a super simple intro to way the sport of Judo works.

How to win

To win a Judo contest a player needs to obtain an ippon score, be ahead in score when contest time runs out, or his opponent must be disqualified (Hansoku make).

Ippon (win)

Ippon (and so the match) is awarded to a competitor for the following:

- throwing opponent onto their back with speed and force

- pinning opponent on his back for 20 seconds

- scoring 2 waza-aris (see below)

- gaining submission from opponent (see below)

Waza ari (half score)

- Throwing opponent onto his side, or onto back lacking one of speed or control

- Holding opponent on his back for 10-19 seconds


There are several reasons someone may tap to indicate their submission (and therefore loss of contest). When a player is forced to tap his opponent is awarded an ippon win.

- Arm locks : attacking the elbow only. No other joint locks are permitted

- Strangles or chokes

- Accepting (s)he is unable to escape a pin/hold


- A minor penalty (Shido) may be given to a player for a number of minor infringements (gripping, stepping out of area, not attacking etc etc)

- Disqualification (Hansoku make) is given to player who is given a 3rd shido or who commits a grave infringement of the rules or an action against the "spirit of Judo"