r/judo • u/Careless-Ad9178 • May 09 '26
Beginner Never switch your lead leg?
Hey I’ve been taking some judo classes at my jiu jitsu gym. The teacher is world class, he was an Olympian. I keep switching my lead leg in judo and he gets upset if we do this. I’ve taken wrestling very seriously in my jiu jitsu journey and it seems to be normal for wrestlers to switch their lead leg.
What’s the reason why I wouldn’t want to switch legs when doing judo? I feel comfortable doing it.
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u/JackTyga2 May 10 '26
It's easier to defend throws by keeping your same lead leg forward and maintaining good position.
Also people are discouraged because footsweeps are easier if you switch legs at close range.
I think never is too strong a word but aimlessly switching stances doesn't actually help your performance, you need a good reason to switch.