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Randori

Randori (乱取り) translates as "free practice" or "taking chaos" and refers to live, resisted sparring in judo. Both practitioners attempt throws and defensive techniques against each other with full intention, making randori the closest training approximation to competitive judo.

Randori occupies the final position in judo's foundational training progression: uchi komi builds the mechanical entry, nage komi develops the commitment to complete the throw, and randori tests both under the unpredictability of a resisting partner.

A key principle often misunderstood by beginners is that randori reveals technique rather than builds it. The chaos of live resistance exposes what mechanics are truly internalized and reinforces the patterns already present — good or poor. This is why the progression exists: entering randori before the foundational mechanics are established leads to compensated movement, stalled entries, and elevated injury risk for both parties.

Randori was central to Jigoro Kano's vision for judo as a living practice. He distinguished it from kata (pre-arranged forms) as the method through which skill is tested under real conditions, while kata preserves and transmits technical knowledge. Together, they form the complete training environment of Kodokan judo.

Related article: Uchi Komi, Nage Komi, Randori: The Judo Training Progression That Builds Skill and Protects the Body | Combatpit

Behind each triumph are new peaks to be conquered.
Mas Oyama

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