Judo / Topic 10

Grips and grip breaking

IJF · 2026
Last checked: 23 October 2026
Source: IJF Sport and Organisation Rules — 14 August 2026 · Source pages: IJF: 178–182
In short

Non-classical grips, including cross, same-side, belt, pocket and pistol grips, can be legal when used positively to prepare attacks. Defensive blocking or forcing a bent posture without attacking can attract shido. This edition allows gripping inside the sleeve in standing and groundwork; it does not allow gripping inside the trouser bottom while standing.

On this pageThe ruleIn practice

The rule

Non-classical grips, including cross, same-side, belt, pocket and pistol grips, can be legal when used positively to prepare attacks. Defensive blocking or forcing a bent posture without attacking can attract shido. This edition allows gripping inside the sleeve in standing and groundwork; it does not allow gripping inside the trouser bottom while standing.

In practice

Breaking a grip with one hand without retaining a grip is allowed. Breaking with both hands requires retaining a grip; breaking with the knee or leg is prohibited. Finger manipulation and obstructive interlocking are also penalised. A grip's legality depends on the action and intent, not solely on its unusual appearance.

Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Based on the supplied official rulebook. References use PDF page numbers; topic numbers are editorial.
Sources & approach ↗