Subscribe To This Site

Judo

Judo utilizes leverage to throw attackers and can be an effective method of self defense for women.

Quick movements are emphasized to execute punches, kicking, chokes, foot sweeps, throws, falls, pins, joint locks along with some knife and sword techniques. The object is to turn the attackers force to one’s own advantage rather than to oppose it.

Click here to tell us about your dojo.

It was developed in Japan in 1882 by Kano Jigoro who had studied Jujitsu. He opened his Dojo (school) in Tokyo and trained his students in Nippon-Den-Kodokan-Judo. Focusing on two phases of combat, the standing and the ground phase, Kano’s Martial Art has it’s own strategies, training and methods.

During this time this Martial Art almost completely stifled the popular Jujitsu due to it’s success in direct competition with various Jujitsu techniques.

Translated it means “gentle way”. Ju (gentleness) and Do (way). Do also implies adherence to strict moral principles which are crucial in striving for “self-perfection”. Physical training and total health benefits were also emphasized as well as defense skills.

Students are called Judoka. Judoka traditionally were those of 4th Dan or higher and those below 4th Dan were called kenkyu-sei or trainees. Today the term Judoka refers to any student of any rank. The Teacher is called sensei.

Judoka study free-style sparring extensively. Sparring techniques are practiced to increase strength and cardiovascular system fitness. Some of the most prevalent methods follow Kata, which are forms that incorporate different Martial Arts techniques.

There are two combat phases: the standing and the ground phase. Each phase has its own techniques and strategies. In the standing phase the opponents attempt to throw each other. During the ground phase the contestants strive to obtain a two second hold down or get their opponent to submit by using a choke, strangulation or arm lock.

Although a Martial Art, it is also considered a sport. In 1932 it was inducted into the Olympics for men and became an official sport in 1964. A Dutchman won the gold metal, helping to eliminate the impression of it being a “Japanese” only sport. In 1992 the Olympics also added women’s competition.

Do you know of a Judo Dojo?

Do you have or attend a Judo class that deserves its own web page? Just create it here! Tell us all about it: where, when, who, etc. Why is it unique/significant/important. What are its principles? Are there some events you would like to share?

Name of the Judo Dojo

Tell us about it! [ ? ]