Positive attacks and passivity
IJF · 2026Judoka must seek genuine attacks rather than merely hold, block or simulate throwing. With conventional grips and positive progression, the rules allow 45 seconds to develop an attack. This is not a guaranteed period for stalling: avoidance of grips, excessively defensive posture and negative conduct can still be penalised.
The rule
Judoka must seek genuine attacks rather than merely hold, block or simulate throwing. With conventional grips and positive progression, the rules allow 45 seconds to develop an attack. This is not a guaranteed period for stalling: avoidance of grips, excessively defensive posture and negative conduct can still be penalised.
In practice
A false attack may involve no realistic throwing chance, no attempt to break balance, releasing grips immediately or dropping only to block the opponent. Pulling someone straight into groundwork outside the permitted transitions can also attract shido. The referee judges the intention and development of the action, not simply how many movements were made.
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