Successful throws in Judo start with the unsettling of your opponent’s balance – breaking the balance or kuzushi.

In this short video, released as a free prelude to a new interpretation of the Gokyo (available to download from Fighting Films), Neil Adams MBE demonstrates balance lines and the importance of whole body movement when seeking to break your opponent’s balance.

Kuzushi generally starts with the hands, but the movement and placement of the feet and head also play a part. In some techniques, such as o soto gari, kuzushi can also be created by body impact.

Also be aware of the importance of your own balance – if you are on balance you are much harder to throw or counter!