Today’s session focused mainly on groundwork, with a lot of attention paid to immobilisations and preparation for belt changes.
I really enjoyed this focus, as it’s an aspect of judo that I find both technical and intuitive.
We worked on Kamishio Gatame and Ushiro Geza Gatame, as well as sequences of sleeve holds and the use of the backhand.
These techniques require a precision that I’m gradually rediscovering, as if my body were remembering a long-forgotten language.
The atmosphere in the group improves considerably with these regular sessions, which strengthen our cohesion.
A new partner has joined us, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teacher who wants to take up judo to complement his practice.
His arrival brings a wealth of technique and really interesting exchanges. It’s like having a new book in an already well-stocked library – you discover new perspectives that enrich your own practice.
The session was particularly intense, especially the warm-up which I found very demanding. It’s got me thinking about the need to incorporate more cardio into my personal training.
I’m impressed by the level of detail in the floor practice, particularly when it comes to gripping the handles and working on the backhand. The meticulous explanations help me to better understand the mechanics of the fixed positions.
The randoris were particularly beneficial, with changes of partners and varied defence and immobilisation situations.
It’s at these moments of practical application that I really feel the techniques sink in.
The session was physically demanding, I picked up a few bruises, but they are like medals that testify to my growing commitment.
Physically, I’ve had a few aches and pains, particularly in my arms, but they’ve been accompanied by a great sense of satisfaction.
At 43, after 27 years out of the sport, each session is like a renewed dialogue with my body. The effort is intense, but the connection I feel with my practice and with myself is priceless.
The training group
The conviviality of the group and the visible improvement in my skills give me extra motivation and even a certain pride.
To keep progressing, I need to strengthen my physical condition, particularly by incorporating cardio, such as weekly cycling sessions.
I’m also thinking of wearing a heart rate monitor for future training sessions, so that I know my heart rate zone better and can adapt my effort accordingly.
Working on gripping the handles and immobilising myself remains a priority to improve my technical precision.
This return to judo has taught me that regularity and variety in training are the keys to progress.
Even at an age when many people give up intense physical activity, I’m discovering that practising judo allows me to reconnect with my body while respecting its current limits.
Working with a motivated partner to prepare for the belt is an excellent opportunity to deepen my skills.
In this way, judo becomes not just a sport, but a discipline that structures my daily life and teaches me patience with myself.
“Progress comes from consistency and listening to yourself”
I trained as a judoka with the Arlésien Judo Club in the 90s, and discovered the rigour, humility and collective spirit of this martial art at a very early age.
After a 27-year hiatus, I decided at the age of 43 to put on my judogi again and start practising again, at my own pace and with an adult’s eye.
This website is the diary of that resumption, with the rediscovery of techniques, personal reflections, physical pain and deep satisfaction.
My goal: to achieve my black belt before I’m 50 and prove that you can always progress, whatever your age or background.