The basics in 1 minute

The aim

Win through a controlled throw, hold-down or permitted submission, or by having the better technical score when time ends.

Scoring

Ippon wins immediately, including a valid hold of 20 seconds. Two waza-ari make ippon; yuko never combine into waza-ari.

Key rules

• Regular IJF contests last 4 minutes of actual fighting; tied technical scores lead to unlimited golden score.
• Attack positively and obey the referee. The third shido means disqualification, not a technical score for the opponent.
• Use compliant judogi and safe permitted techniques; cadet and national youth restrictions can differ.