How is judo adapted for blind athletes?
B · Beginner · Before the fight · 1 of 3Para judo is judo for blind and visually impaired athletes, governed by IBSA. It follows the IJF rules except where the IBSA Judo Rules differ. The main difference is the start: both athletes take a set grip before the referee calls hajime, and must keep fighting with both hands. Blind (J1) and visually impaired (J2) athletes compete separately.
How it works
- Governing body: IBSA, under IJF rules.
- Exceptions: only those written in the IBSA rules.
- Categories: J1 blind and J2 visually impaired.
- Start: a set grip before hajime.
- Fighting: with both hands.
- Referees: IJF referees qualified by IBSA.
- Help: escorting, colour calls and jogai.
- Deaf athletes: taps and signs on the palm.
The glossary has the IBSA judo, the IBSA Judo Rules, the spirit of the contest, the IBSA referee, the J1 and the J2.
Tricky cases
Where a rule is not in the IBSA text, what applies?
The IJF rules.
Are weight categories different?
The IBSA rules do not change them; the IJF categories apply.
Can hearing-impaired athletes compete?
Yes. The rules have sections for them.
Who can referee at the Paralympics?
IJF referees qualified by the IBSA Judo Referee Commission.
Why the rule exists
Starting already gripped removes the fight for a grip, which a blind athlete cannot see. Everything after that is judo.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Grip before hajime | 7 |
| Grip | Both hands at all times | 10 |
| Categories | J1 and J2 | 2 |
From the rule book
IBSA, IBSA Judo Rules (amendment to the IJF rules, 2025 to 2028, January 2025), pages 1 and 23 and sections 1, 2, 7 and 10. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: IBSA Judo Rules, January 2025.