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The ultimate goal of randori is to develop the ability to rapidly cope with
changing circumstances, to build a strong and supple body, and to prepare
mind and body for competition. To derive the maximum benefit from randori,
it must be practiced in the way most likely to achieve results. Pay
particular attention to the following three points:
1. The fundamental body position is, and must be, shizentai. This basic
natural posture is not only the most adaptable to change but also the least
tiring. Both partners take the same posture.
2. The emphasis is first on throwing techniques. Throwing practice is
more valuable both as physical education and as spiritual training, since it
requires perceiving and reacting to a greater range of situations. By moving
on to grappling techniques only after extensive practice of throwing techniques,
it is possible to become equally proficient at both. Those who specialize
in judo over a number of years have ample opportunity to study in
depth, but for anyone who might be tempted to learn one or the other,
throwing techniques definitely take precedence. It is better to concentrate
properly on one rather than treat inadequately with two. If groundwork is
undertaken first, later chances to learn nage-waza may be few or non-existent.
Especially if practice time is limited, concentration should be on learning
throws.
3. Always keep in mind that randori is training in the art of attack and
defense. In a martial art, it is essential to train the body to move freely and
agilely to deal with punching and kicking attacks and to nurture the ability
to react quickly and skillfully. The immediate goal is to win. Never admit
defeat.
Unfortunately, in many dojo today randori is not practiced as it should be.
One reason is the stress on training for competition. In tournament competition,
participants tend to abandon the basic natural posture and assume
stiff defensive postures. The resulting contest-style judo is far from ideal.
Practicing in the natural posture, points never to be neglected are: never
use excess force, always put strength in shoulders, hips and limbs only as required,
and always perform movements harmoniously in a controlled way,
according to your own volition.
A second reason for current practices is that with the growth in the number
of people practicing judo, there is a lack of qualified instructors worldwide
and standards have been compromised. Reinstitution of Kodokan style
randori is surely one of the most pressing tasks facing the judo world today.
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