Judo Rules & Scoring
Scoring System
The primary goal is to score an Ippon, which immediately wins the match. If no Ippon is scored by the end of the time limit, the athlete with the highest score wins.
| Score | Description |
|---|---|
| Ippon | One full point — wins the match immediately |
| Waza-ari | Half point — two earn an Ippon |
Score Definitions
Ippon (One Full Point): Awarded for a throw that lands an opponent flat on their back with significant force, speed, and control. Also earned by pinning an opponent for 20 seconds or forcing a submission via armlock or choke.
Waza-ari (Half Point): Awarded for a throw that lacks one element of an Ippon (e.g., the opponent lands on their side) or for a pin lasting 10–19 seconds.
Waza-ari Awasete Ippon: If a competitor earns two Waza-ari scores, they are combined to equal one Ippon and the match ends immediately.
Rules and Penalties
Judokas are penalized for passive behavior or dangerous actions.
Shido (Minor Penalty): Given for non-combativity, stalling, or illegal grips — such as holding a one-sided grip for more than 5 seconds without attacking.
Hansoku-make (Major Penalty): A direct disqualification for serious rule violations, such as intentional injury, punching, kicking, or diving head-first. Receiving three Shidos also results in a Hansoku-make.
Golden Score: If the score is tied when time runs out, the match enters sudden-death overtime. The first person to score any point wins.
Safety and Etiquette
Prohibited Techniques: Strikes (punches/kicks), touching the face, and attacking any joints other than the elbow are strictly forbidden.
Bowing (Rei): Proper etiquette is essential; judokas must bow to each other before and after the match as a sign of respect.
Uniform (Judogi): Competitors must wear a durable white or blue gi with a belt tied in a traditional square knot.