How do blind judoka know where the mat edge is?
I · Intermediate · During the fight · 4 of 4Near the safety area the referee moves towards the centre and calls jogai loudly and repeatedly, so athletes turn to the voice. Both feet outside means outside. J1 athletes are usually not penalised for going out, unless they walk backward to escape. J2 athletes get a shido for leaving on purpose without action. Repeated use of the edge is penalised.
How it works
- Jogai: called loudly and repeatedly.
- Referee: on the line to the centre.
- Outside: both feet out.
- J1: usually no penalty.
- J1 exception: walking backward out to escape.
- J2: shido for leaving on purpose.
- Repeated: penalised for J1, J2 and deaf athletes.
- Time: enough to change direction.
The glossary has the edge of the contest area (IBSA judo), the jogai, the going outside (hearing impaired), the J1, the J2 and the IBSA referee.
Tricky cases
A J1 athlete stumbles out during a throw. Shido?
No.
A J2 athlete steps out with no attack. Shido?
Yes, if intentional.
How does a deaf athlete know the edge?
They cannot hear jogai; the referee warns with a hand sign.
Can a J1 athlete be penalised for going out?
Yes, if they walk backward out to escape.
Why the rule exists
A blind athlete cannot see the edge, so the referee's voice marks it. Penalties stay for using the edge as a tactic.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| J1 | Usually no penalty | 14 |
| J2 | Shido if intentional | 14 |
| Deaf | Palm warning first | 26 |
From the rule book
IBSA, IBSA Judo Rules (amendment to the IJF rules, 2025 to 2028, January 2025), sections 14, 15 and 26. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: IBSA Judo Rules, January 2025.