Three weeks until my first judo tournament.

**danniboi07** · Posted On: 1/03/2009 5:26pm

I save my tani-otoshi for counters. Throw your hip in to botch their throw, then quick into tani-otoshi.

That worked more for the novice division. Dammit why did I have to get my sankyu?

**Just Guess** · Posted On: 1/03/2009 6:36pm

Identify your best, not necessarily favorite, throws and concentrate on them. Work on your sprawl. If tournaments where you're at are anything like the ones I've been to the lower divisions will be full of guys who want to wrestle instead of play Judo.

**That Shy Girl** · Posted On: 1/03/2009 10:38pm

Since I'm new to Judo I probably can't give any decent advice, but still wanted to say good luck!

**theotherserge** · Posted On: 1/03/2009 11:13pm

with three weeks to go, my opinion is no randori: you won't add anything new&you don't want anything new. Save your efforts towards Cardio&mental prep. Be sure you understand the rules.

Uchikomi like your life depends on it. Use elastic bands as a substitute to
a partner-if necessary. Getting footwork drilled into your CNS cannot be underestimated!

Kill em Russ!!!!!!

**Just Guess** · Posted On: 1/04/2009 1:26am

I wouldn't say no randori, just not all full speed and strength randori. There's still room to make improvements in technique with half speed randori.

**Munacra** · Posted On: 1/04/2009 2:32am

I always practise tons of French Randori (establishing grips only) before a competition.

**Hedgehogey** · Posted On: 1/04/2009 2:39am

Grips. You're gonna burn them out.

**theotherserge** · Posted On: 1/04/2009 3:09am

Originally Posted by Just Guess

I wouldn't say no randori, just not all full speed and strength randori. There's still room to make improvements in technique with half speed randori.

For me, randori is too satisfying; I need to feel "hungry" for a fight when I get to the tourney.

this is very subjective/personal so its good to hear what others think...

**ignatzami** · Posted On: 1/05/2009 11:02am

Good luck.

I've been to two tournaments, the first was the Pennsylvania Open and I was nowhere near prepared.

Some advice, take it or leave it.
1) your going to most likely weigh in early and not fight for several hours, find a way to stay warm and active. I cooled down too much and was so stiff on the matt it was terrible.

2) expect a MUCH higher level of intensity then you are most likely used to. Only way I can think to prep for this is find a higher belt close to your size and have a few mock rounds. Tell them to play as if they were competing.

3) PICK A GAME PLAN! If your ground game is bad STAND UP, if your stand up game is bad go to the ground. Do not try and play an area your weak!

4) SUBMISSIONS SUCK! Do not give up a pin for a sub unless it's a guaranteed sub. I did this and lost my first round at the PA open because of it. If you get a pin hold on for dear life.

5) BREATHE! When I get tense I forget how to breathe. Don't do this.

6) HAVE FUN!!!!! I've lost both tourneys I've been two but I still had a ton of fun. So go, enjoy and report back!

**Coach Josh** · Posted On: 1/05/2009 11:08am

Ashiwaza your a big guy and need it. The lighter guys in your gym are perfect to practice ashiwaza. Sasae, kouchi and okuri ashi should be your staple throws. Aside from makikomis(which i detest) ashiwaza is the most used throws by low level heavyweights.