Do you spend time practising hidari (Left handed) throws, groundholds and breakfalls. If you hold a green belt or above are you able to change between migi (right) and hidari (left) handed throws in randori. Do we tend to put less effort into hidari practise because its more difficult for most judoka. What do you think ???

I feel that we probably train students more for grading’s than for skill at times – especially with Hidari techniques when the student is right handed. We don’t insist on them being just as skilled left as right, and I’m just as guilty as any on that one!! The serious student will practice both, but those who just learn for advancement will concentrate on Migi. My personal view, which is not necessarily that of everyone, is that the initial instructors MUST concentrate as much on Hidari, especially for juniors. How we teach the youngest pupils, and what we might skimp on, will set a model for our perceived standard for all to see!

Hidari rolling breakfalls is the most disconcerting thing that I do. I always feel like a white belt novice, rolling comes most un-naturally! I try, therefore, to practice rolling, two to the left side and one to the right. The side benefit being that it helps me empathise with those students who are learning to roll and how un- natural it feels to them. Some throws are easier than others. Hidari Kata Guruma is more difficult for me whereas I find Hidari Hiza Guruma no problem!

I used to avoid hidari at all cost, then damaged the ligaments in my right arm, and found that I had to train (mainly) left handed. The result is that I am comfortable reacting left or right. I can attack left or right, but have to think about demonstrating / practising left handed. In other words, reacting is OK but thinking left handed is difficult.

The good side to this is that left handed counters, from a right handed attack ALWAYS confuse the opponent. In addition try this next time you train. Taking a Left handed grip gives everyone the BIG HINT that your going to attack left handed – so don’t! attack with a right handed technique instead !!!!! try Sode Tsuri Komi Goshi. You’ll be amazed. I like using both and switching between during randori, though this is not always the case for uke………