This week reminded me just how much judo is an art of precision as well as strength.
Each movement requires special attention and an acute awareness of the body and space.
It’s like a jigsaw puzzle where each piece has to fit together perfectly. Posture, eye contact, foot placement, the grip… everything has to be in harmony for the hold to be effective.
Wednesday – Normal training
On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to train with a different sensei, which always brings a new perspective on the techniques. The session focused on a sequence that included Tai Otoshi, a counter and then a transition to a ground hold.
All essential elements for my next yellow belt.
What particularly struck me was the revelation about the importance of the leg hold in Tai Otoshi.
I realised that the aim is to cause a fall by displacement rather than by hooking, a nuance that I hadn’t fully grasped until now.
The variety of partners during this training was very beneficial.
Working with judokas of different sizes reassured me about my ability to adapt my technique.
I felt in great shape, and despite the summer heat that was beginning to set in, I managed to maintain a good rhythm thanks to regular hydration.
The satisfaction of making progress in understanding the sequences is really gratifying, especially after taking up judo so late in life.
Friday – Technical training
Friday’s session focused on more technical aspects, including foot and hand placement and the use of deep muscles. We worked on Osotogari, Izagoruma, Okigoshi, Ouchigari, Koachigari and Taitoshi.
This class opened my eyes to certain details that I’d been neglecting: the positioning of the pelvis, the direction of the gaze… On sweeps, I (re)learnt that I should look into Uke’s eyes rather than at his feet, which completely changes the way the movement is executed.
It’s quite frustrating to realise that for several weeks I’d been executing certain movements ‘off the mark’, but it’s also a sign that I’m making progress in my understanding.
After two hours of training, I started to feel the fatigue in my muscles, particularly in my legs and pelvis.
I have a better idea of the corrections I need to make and the details I need to concentrate on.
At 43, I feel that my body isn’t recovering as quickly as it did at 16, but there’s something satisfying about feeling your muscles working differently, exploring new sensations.
I plan to continue visualising my foot placement and working on my pelvic awareness at home, so that these corrections become a natural part of my practice.
Taking up judo again after 27 years is a real lesson in humility and patience.
It reminds me that learning is a continuous process, regardless of age or experience.
The technical details I’ve rediscovered this week have rekindled my curiosity and motivation for this sport that I’ve missed so much.
I feel that each lesson brings me not only a better technical understanding, but also greater serenity in the face of everyday challenges.
“Mastery begins with the detail”
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.