What is Judo?
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What is Judo? |
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Where Judo Began - Kodokan Judo
An article by Neil Ohlenkamp[Click Here For Printable Version]
The Short Answer
- Judo is a martial art combining throws with submission techniques in its groundwork. Judo includes subtle but powerful techniques which include sweeps, hip throws, shoulder throws, arm throws, leg throws and sacrifice throws. The control/submission techniques include pinning your opponent, armbars and chokes.
- Judo rules and well developed Ukemi (fall break techniques) together with the etiquette in the Judo tradition enable judokas to practice with full contact and utmost realism, without injury.
- Judo became an Olympic sport in 1964 and is the most popular martial art worldwide, with millions of judokas regularly competing.
- The Judo uniform is called a judogi which represents traditional Japanese clothing. Judo is practiced on mats (tatamis) necessary to absorb the impact of a throw. Large tournament tatamis and extra thick "crash mats" are used at Judo Ryu's East Pointe Dojo in Jacksonville.
- The Sensei (instructors) of Judo Ryu are top level competitors, gold medalists at national and international competition with each 25+ years experience.
Why should I join Judo?
- To learn valuable self-defense skills. Mixed martial arts competition has shown that most fights are won after a takedown or a throw and subsequent submission technique. In other words: In real life fights, the knowledge of grappling technique, as taught in judo, is essential; more important than any boxing or karate style knowledge. Another important aspect is that with Judo submissions, an opponent will be forced to give up the fight without necessarily being bloodied or hurt which in most situations is preferable, for instance with kids in a schoolyard fight, to control a drunken relative, etc.
- For the well rounded physical and cardiovascular workout.
- For the thrill of competition or for recreational fun.
- Judo teaches discipline, concentration, perseverance, responsibility, self-esteem and respect.
Who should do Judo?
- Men and women, girls and boys from every age group. Judo is ideal for children . Children love to be physical and Judo provides a safe and structured environment.
- Currently Judo Ryu Jacksonville has students ranging from 3 to 53+ years of age in three separate classes: adult, junior and young child.
"Whatever the objective, it is best attained by the maximum-efficient use of mind and body for that purpose"
From the book "Kodokan Judo" by Jigoro Kano (1860--1938) Founder of Judo
Jigoro Kano
Founder of Judo
