Section 3: Playing Area
3.1 Tatami Specifications
All IJF-sanctioned competitions take place on a regulation tatami (competition mat) meeting the following dimensional requirements:
- Total Platform: Minimum 14 m × 14 m (46 ft × 46 ft), encompassing the contest area, danger zone, and safety zone.
- Contest Area: 8 m × 8 m (26 ft × 26 ft) to 10 m × 10 m (33 ft × 33 ft). Olympic and World Championship finals typically use 10 m × 10 m.
- Danger Zone: A 1 m (3.3 ft) wide red-colored border strip inside the contest area boundary, marking the transition zone. Actions initiated in the danger zone are valid; actions initiated outside it are not.
- Safety Zone: Minimum 3 m (10 ft) wide surrounding the contest area. When two mats are placed adjacent, the combined safety zone between them must be at least 4 m (13 ft).
3.2 Mat Construction and Approval
Tatami mats must be IJF-approved, constructed from high-density foam (typically EVA or compressed polyurethane) with a textured, non-slip vinyl surface. Mat firmness must allow safe breakfalls (ukemi) while providing enough friction to prevent uncontrolled sliding. The contest area and safety zone are distinguished by color: typically green or yellow for the contest area and red for the danger zone. Mats must be laid flat without gaps, ridges, or overlapping seams that could cause tripping.
3.3 Venue Requirements
- Minimum ceiling height of 4 m (13 ft) above the mat surface.
- Adequate lighting of at least 1,500 lux at mat level for competition and broadcast requirements.
- Warm-up area adjacent to the competition hall with sufficient mat space for athletes to prepare.
- Designated coaching chairs positioned at two diagonal corners of the competition area, one per athlete.
- Medical station with stretcher access within 30 seconds of any competition mat.