Question

Explain the measurement and specifications of the contest area in Judo.

Answer 1

1. Overall competition area: It must measure at least 14 m × 14 m.
2. Contest area: The inner contest zone must be at least 8 m × 8 m and may be up to 10 m × 10 m. It is marked in a different colour from the safety area.
3. Safety area: The outer safety zone must be at least 3 m wide. When two or more competition areas adjoin, their shared safety area is 4 m wide.
4. Free space: A clear zone of at least 50 cm must be maintained around the entire competition area.
5. Tatamis: The floor is covered with tatami or similar material made of pressed foam. Each mat measures 1 m × 2 m or 1 m × 1 m.
6. Optional platform: A platform may be used; it is made of solid wood and measures approximately 18 m × 18 m. If used, a safety area at least 4 m wide around the competition area is recommended.
7. Contestants and officials: The referee stands inside the contest area, while two judges sit at its outer corners. The contestants wear Judogi; the blue-uniform contestant is called first and stands to the referee’s right, while the white-uniform contestant stands to the referee’s left.