Why Ground Fighting often Decides Judo Matches
Abstract
Ground fighting (ne-waza) is crucial in judo, transforming incomplete throws into immediate victories. In contrast to the mobility of stand-up fighting, on the ground, control of the torso, shoulders, and legs reduces escape options. Chokes, joint locks, or 10- to 20-second holds allow judokas to decide matches before the four-minute rule, drastically punishing defensive errors in quick transitions.
References
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Ren, M., Tian, Y., McNeill, C., Lenetsky, S., y Uthoff, A. (2023). The role and development of strength for elite judo athletes. Strength & Conditioning Journal, 45(6), 663-673. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0000000000000778
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