Agreed Intensity: Randori at 30, 50 and 70%
Pair ground randori where intensity is agreed before each round and anyone can ask to lower it at any time. It trains control, consent and communication, which are key to practicing combat sports without injuries.
How to play
- Initial agreement: explain the cards (green 30%, yellow 50%, orange 70%), the double tap to stop and the word "down" to drop one level without stopping (4 min).
- Green round: 1 min of kneeling randori at 30% with two partner changes; the goal is flow, not winning (4 min).
- Yellow round: before starting, each pair confirms aloud "yellow?" "yes"; 1 min per bout with three changes (6 min).
- Optional orange round: only pairs where both choose orange; others repeat yellow; 1 min per bout (6 min).
- Pair reflection: did my partner respect the agreed level? Did I use "down"? What was hardest to control? (5 min).
Rules
- The level is set by whoever wants to go lighter.
- "Down" is respected instantly and never mocked or criticized.
- Kneeling bouts, no neck, head or joint locks.
- Anyone can sit out a round and observe without explaining why.
Variations
Easier
Green and yellow rounds only, same partner.
Standard
Three levels with partner changes and optional orange.
Harder
An observer per pair rates 1 to 5 how well real intensity matched the agreed level.
Adaptations
- Minor injury: the student joins only at green or as an intensity observer.
- Hearing impairment: "down" is replaced by two light taps on the partner's arm.
- Past negative experiences with contact: choose a partner, start as an observer and decide whether to join the green round.
Learning goals
- Adjust intensity to what was agreed with the partner.
- Practice consent in sports contact.
- Communicate limits clearly and respect other people's.
Equipment for a class of 25
- mats: 16
- stopwatch: 1
- colored cards: 30
Teacher tip
Keep colored cardstock in a box so each pair can show their level at the edge of the mat. The usual problem is students turning it up when they're losing; note it and bring it up in the reflection without naming anyone.
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