After gathering on the mats, exchanging the ritual greeting and warming up, the pupils sit attentively at the edge of the mats whilst the teacher demonstrates the exercises.
Following the instructor’s instructions, two partners usually practise together. They take turns, with one person taking the role of the attacker (Uke) and the other the role of the person being attacked or the defender (known as Tori or Nage). Tori performs a technique against Uke. After two or four repetitions of the technique in question, the partners swap their roles as Uke and Tori.
The attacks consist mainly of strikes, holds and chokeholds. The technique itself is usually divided into three parts. Absorbing or redirecting the attacker’s energy; channelling that energy until the opponent (uke) loses their balance; and the finishing technique, which may consist of a throw – possibly followed by a hold – or simply a hold.
The attack can be absorbed and redirected in several ways. Tori (the defender) can use an evasive movement (tai sabaki – ‘moving in different directions’) and a subsequent step closer to the attacker (omote or ura – ‘moving into different positions relative to uke’) to harmonise with the energy of the attack.
Subsequently, by channelling the energy of the attack in a direction determined by the tori, Uke’s balance is disrupted. Suggested thrusting and striking techniques (atemi) are also often used to disrupt balance.
Once Uke has lost control of his own body, it is no longer difficult to bring the movement to an end with a throw or a hold.
There are also exercises in which techniques are practised against several partners at the same time (jiyuwaza); and forms in which the technique can be chosen freely (randori).