What is Judo?

Developed by Professor Jigoro Kano, Judo is based on the ancient Japanese martial art called Jujitsu. Professor Kano opened the Kodokan Dojo in Tokyo, Japan in the year 1882 and started to train students in Nippon-Den-Kodokan-Judo. Judo, which means the "gentle way," is not only concerned with attack and defense techniques but the physical conditioning and total health that could be attained from its practice. The meaning of the word Ju (gentleness) denotes not resisting the strength of the opponent, but adapting to it, and taking advantage of it by turning it to one's own advantage. The meaning of the word Do (way) denotes not just methods or techniques, but also signifies adherence to strict moral principles which are essential in striving for "self-perfection as a human being". In the words of Professor Kano, as translated in Keiko Fukuda, Born for the Mat (1973, pp. 9):

The aim of judo is to utilize physical and mental strength most effectively. Its training is to understand the true meaning of life through the mental and physical training of attack and defense. You must develop yourself as a person and become a useful citizen to society.

Judo consists of standing throws and complex grappling techniques used both offensively and defensively, as well as falling techniques for safety. It is a vigorous competitive sport which requires both physical and mental endurance. Judo is practiced by people of all ages, and is the ONLY Official competitive martial art that is sponsored by the Olympic Games (since 1964).