Biomechanics

Introduction In Judo, few concepts are as foundational—and as frequently misunderstood—as kuzushi (崩し). Commonly translated as “breaking balance,” kuzushi is not merely a preliminary step before a throw; it is the biomechanical and tactical principle that makes throwing possible in the first place. Without effective kuzushi, even technically precise throws lack efficiency and reliability. Recommended Video Resources Kuzushi Fundamentals (Kodokan Demonstration) Kuzushi - Judo Excellence wth Neil Adams Kuzushi - Japanese Kuzushi: the SECRET element The Three Phases of a Throw Traditional Judo divides throwing technique (nage-waza) into three phases: ...