First week of Judo and Starting Strength

This has been the first week that I have been combining Judo with my new weight training routine.

I have already covered Monday’s Judo session so here are some crib notes from the rest of the Judo:

Tachiwaza:

• I’m continuing my left-handed approach, with further success with Osoto Gari. My version is more of the “hook and drive” style and I really do need to watch the Kuzushi on this. It’s something you can get away with against smaller players, but an extremely hard counter will result if Tori is not careful.
• The above throw against opponents with extreme right-sided stances makes it difficult to gain the entry. So probably not the best throw to use then. Ouchi Gari would perhaps be a better option, or of course a forward throw instead. And consider the usual sacrifice possibilities, and Ura Nage.
• One of my favourite throws is Hikkomi Gaeshi (sometimes referred to as Obi Tori Gaeshi). Works well when working as a left-hander against a right-handed opponent as it is easier to get the over-the-top belt grip. Now working on throwing when getting the LEFT hand over the shoulder. First attempt was amusing… I got the grip, then threw myself onto my back as I forgot to go in the opposite direction
• At one club, there are more people either my size or bigger! This is great, as it means I will have to adapt a lot. Really means I have to play for movement and not try and beat strength vs strength when I am weaker… it does not end well!
• MUCH more work on Ouchi Gari needed. Feels all over the place.
• Hiza Guruma is working MUCH better now I am stepping closer. When successful it really does FEEL like Uke is being wheeled over! The closeness also means that the standard Osoto Gari to Hiza Guruma combination feels more natural in my head now.
• When gripping the collar, back etc, BEND THE ELBOW. Or that arm is very vunerable to being locked. Reminded me to go for the Whizzer grip myself when someone makes the same mistake… it’s very strong and useful to proceed into Ouchi Gari with.

Newaza:

• Speed over strength. Newaza can quickly turn into a bit of a tug of war in some positions. Far better to use speed to gain positional advantages, and to switch between different techniques.
• Turnover: Grab Uke’s right wrist with right hand (IMPORTANT: Thumb on TOP so your own grip doesn’t prevent movement). Rotate around Uke’s body anti-clockwise. Be on your feet for power and balance. Once on opposite side, use both arms to pull Uke onto their back. Need to practice this further. Note there is a Sangaku entry from here when half-way round.
• Don’t be taken by surprise. If “rushed” by an opponent, balance should at least be as such so they can be pulled into guard. Should NEVER be forced to turtle. Keep one leg up?

And the weight training?

I went Wednesday and Friday (remember I only started on Wednesday). Ouch. Sore. The good kind though, as opposed to things going a bit awry. Certainly means I have less strength available for use in Judo when in recovery, but hey, if that helps with my technique then that can only be a good thing…