The men's competition began in 1964 in Tokyo. Germany, Belgium and France lead in the men's field. Cuba tops the women's field. Contestants wear a judogi, which is loose fitting pants and a jacket tied by a black belt. They compete on a mat that is 32.8 feet square.
Bouts last five minutes for men and four for women.
A match can be one by a single point, which may be scored if one contestant throws his or her opponent to the mat so that the opponent's back strikes the canvas. If the throw is executed with perfect form, a point is awarded, and the match is over. Thirty seconds of holding is worth a full point as well. If no point is scored in the time allotted, the match goes to the person who has either a half point or who has accumulated the most credit. Bronze medals are awarded to each semifinal loser.