Soft techniques (referred to as Juho) are actions such as releases, joint reverses, throws and pins. Performing these techniques relies on leverage, balance and a knowledge of the attacker's body to maximise the effectiveness of the defender's actions.

By disrupting an attacker's balance and countering at the weak points of the attack it is possible to defend against someone much larger and stronger.  Although some of the techniques can be painful, they are designed to cause no injury.