Jiyuwaza Competition 2026
The Jiyuwaza Competition is back!
Jiyuwaza (freestyle technique) is one of the best ways to sharpen everything we practise on the mat: technique, speed, reflexes, stamina and ukemi. This competition was first devised by Inoue Kancho while he was teaching the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, and it’s been lifting the standard of Aikido ever since.
How it works
For the Teen and Adult section, the format is as follows:
Each bout has two 40-second halves with a 10-second break in between. Competitors take turns as shite and uke, swapping roles for the second half. It’s a knockout format, so win your bout to move through to the next round. Two judges and a referee score each bout, looking at things like kamae, zanshin, flow and variety of technique, and strong spirit. Uke is judged too, for clean, sharp attacks and good ukemi, so both roles count!
How the kids section works
Our kids will perform the set sequence of techniques they’ve been practising in class, moving on to the next set each round. Judges will look at form, speed, accuracy and spirit, just like in the full competition. It’s a great stepping stone towards freestyle jiyuwaza, pitched at just the right level so every child can shine and build confidence on the mat.
Categories
- Kids
- Teens
- Adults
- Plus a special ukemi section just for kids
Schedule for the day
- 11:45am – 12:45pm: Regular teen and adult class
- 1:30pm: Competitor briefing
- 2:00pm: Competition starts
- Approx. 3:30pm: Finish, followed by drinks, snacks and a small celebration
There’s no kids class that day. Instead, we’d love to see all our kids on the mat for the competition. It’s a great chance to show what they’ve learned and have fun with their friends.
Registration forms are due by Friday 17 October, so grab one from the dojo and get it back to us soon.
As Sensei Joe says, the real benefit is in the training leading up to it and the lift in standards that follows. We hope to see you there, whether you’re competing or cheering!