Objective

In Judo competition the objective is to score an ippon (one full point). Once such a score is obtained the competition ends. Anippon can be scored by one of the following methods:

• Executing a skillful throwing technique which results in one contestant being thrown largely on the back with considerable force or speed.
• Maintaining a pin for 25 seconds.
• One contestant cannot continue and gives up.
• One contestant is disqualified for violating the rules (hansoku-make).
• Applying an effective armbar or an effective stranglehold (this does not usually apply for children).
• Earning two waza-ari (half point). A waza-ari can be earned by: 1) a throwing technique that is not quite an ippon (for example the opponent lands only partly on the back, or with less force than required for ippon); 2) holding one contestant in a pin for 20 seconds; or 3) when the opponent violates the rules (shido) three times.

If the time runs out with neither contestant scoring an ippon, then the referee will award the win to the contestant who has the next highest score. For example, a contestant with one waza-ari would win against an opponent who scored 4 yuko.