Do‑jime (Japanese: 胴絞, dō‑jime) is a grappling technique classified as a shime‑waza (strangulation or chokehold) within the martial art of Judo. The method involves encircling the opponent’s torso with the practitioner’s legs and applying inward pressure to restrict breathing, thereby forcing a submission. The technique is also recognized in related disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu and traditional Japanese jujutsu, where it is sometimes referred to as a “body‑scissor choke” or “trunk choke.”
Description and Mechanics
- Positioning: The attacker typically secures a dominant position on the ground (e.g., side control or mount). From this position, one or both legs are wrapped around the opponent’s midsection, crossing at the hips or thighs.
- Application: By tightening the leg(s) and simultaneously pulling the opponent’s upper body forward (often with the arms), compressive force is placed on the diaphragm and rib cage, limiting respiration and causing discomfort.
- Variations: Variants include using a single leg (single‑leg body scissor) or both legs (double‑leg body scissor). Adjustments in leg placement—such as crossing the ankles or pressing the shins against the opponent’s torso—alter the pressure profile.
Classification
- Judo: Listed among the official Shime‑waza in the Kodokan Judo curriculum. It is taught in kata (prearranged forms) such as Kime‑no‑Kata and Goshin‑Jutsu.
- Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu: Recognized under the broader category of “body‑scissor chokes,” though it is less common in competition due to rules restrictions.
Legal Status in Competition
Do‑jime is prohibited in International Judo Federation (IJF) sanctioned tournaments and most modern judo competition rule sets. The ban is based on safety concerns, as the technique can generate high compressive forces on the torso, raising the risk of rib or organ injury. In contrast, certain non‑sport judo demonstrations and self‑defence curricula may still include the technique.
Historical Context
The technique originates from classical Japanese jujutsu systems, where leg‑based chokes were employed for controlling an opponent without relying on hand‑based strikes. It was incorporated into Kodokan Judo during the early 20th century as part of the systematic cataloguing of Shime‑waza. Historical Judo texts, such as Kodokan Judo Gokui (1914) and later Judo: The Definitive Guide (1972), reference Do‑jime as part of the comprehensive choke set.
Training Considerations
- Safety: Practitioners are instructed to apply the choke gradually, monitor the partner’s response, and release immediately upon a tap or verbal indication of distress.
- Progression: Instruction typically begins with positional drills that emphasize control and proper leg placement before advancing to full‑force application.
- Countermeasures: Defensive tactics include creating space by pushing against the attacker’s hips, slipping an arm underneath the encircling leg, or rolling to a more favorable position.
Cultural and Linguistic Note
The Japanese term 胴絞 combines 胴 (dō, “torso” or “trunk”) and 絞 (jime, “to strangle” or “to squeeze”), directly translating to “trunk choke.” Romanisation varies between “Do‑jime,” “Dō‑jime,” and “Dojime” in English-language sources.
This entry reflects information derived from established Judo curricula, technical manuals, and rulebooks published by recognized governing bodies such as the Kodokan and the International Judo Federation.
