After gathering on the mat, exchanging the ritual greeting, and warming up, the students sit attentively at the edge of the mat while the teacher demonstrates the exercises.
After the instructor gives the directions, two partners usually practice together. They take turns, with one person assuming 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 typically two or four repetitions of the technique, the partners switch roles as Uke and Tori.
The attacks consist primarily of strikes, holds, and chokeholds. The technique itself is usually divided into three parts: absorbing or redirecting the attacker’s energy, channeling that energy until the opponent (uke) loses 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 harmonize with the energy of the attack by performing an evasive movement (tai sabaki—“moving in various directions”) followed by a step closer to the attacker (omote or ura—“entering various positions relative to uke”).
Thereafter, by redirecting the attacker’s energy in a direction determined by Tori, Uke’s balance is disrupted. Often, simulated thrusting and striking techniques (atemi) are also used to disrupt balance.
Once Uke has lost control of his body, it is no longer difficult to conclude the movement with a throw or a hold.
There are also exercises in which techniques are practiced against multiple partners at the same time (jiyuwaza); and forms in which the technique can be chosen freely (randori).