The Kodokan has released its highly anticipated new rules regarding leg grabs in Japanese judo, presenting a nuanced approach that both preserves traditional judo principles while allowing for technical diversity.
Under the new guidelines, direct shooting for legs remains prohibited and will result in a shido (penalty), similar to upper body bear hugs. However, the rules now permit leg grabs within specific contexts, particularly through combination techniques. Judoka can execute morote-gari (two-leg grab) following combinations like ouchi-gari, provided there is proper engagement through gripping sequences.
Single-leg attacks are permitted when executed from established gripping positions, with techniques like ko-uchi makikomi and kata-guruma specifically authorized. However, attacking legs without proper grip engagement will result in penalties, a measure designed to prevent negative judo and grip-avoiding tactics.
The rules emphasize the importance of proper gripping (kumi-kata) before attempting leg techniques. Attacks made without engagement in gripping, including those where athletes drop to grab ankles while avoiding proper grip fighting, will be penalized.
Counter techniques involving leg grabs are also addressed in the new framework, with the Kodokan highlighting how proper gripping control is essential for effective judo and prevention of counter-attacks.
This comprehensive approach represents a significant development in Japanese judo, potentially putting pressure on the International Judo Federation (IJF) to reconsider its own stance on leg grab techniques in international competition.
