Judo can be many different things to different people. It is a fun sport, a martial art, a discipline, a recreational sport, a means of self-defence or simply a way of life. It can be all of these and much much more.
Kodokan Judo comes to us from the fighting system of feudal Japan. Founded in 1882 by Dr Jigoro Kano, Judo is a refinement of the ancient martial art of Jujitsu. Dr. Kano, President of the University of Education, Tokyo, studied these ancient forms and integrated what he considered to be the best of their techniques into what is now the modern sport of Judo.
In 1964 Judo was introduced into the Olympic Games and has stayed there ever since. Its most prominent feature is its competitive element, where the objective is to either throw or take-down an opponent, to the immobilise or otherwise subdue an opponent with a pin, or force an opponent to submit with a joint lock or a choke.
Judo is practised by millions of people throughout the world today. People practice Judo to excel in competition, to stay in shape, to develop self-confidence, and for many other reasons. But most of all, people do Judo just for the fun of it. Judo also helps children to build their self-respect, enhances their confidence, teaches then discipline and most importantly allows them to make new friends.
So why don’t you come along and join the FUN!