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The Origins of Judo
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Judo, which means "The Gentle Way", is a Japanese martial art based upon the ancient techniques of
Jujutsu. Judo was founded in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano, who 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.
Judo is known for its spectacular throwing techniques but also includes numerous techniques for
controlling an opponent while on the ground. A good judoka, one who practices Judo, will first use timing
and leverage to bring his opponent off balance and execute a throw. Once the judoka has thrown his opponent
to the ground, he will use specialized pins, control holds, arm locks, and Judo choking techniques to control
and subdue the opponent. A judoka first learns "ukemi", the art of falling properly to avoid injury.
As in all sports, Judo has a strict set of rules that governs competition and ensures safety.
For those who want to test their skills, Judo offers the opportunity for competition at all skill levels,
from club to national tournaments, to the Olympic Games. There are separate weight divisions for men and women,
and boys and girls.
Judo was introduced into the Olympic Games in 1964 and is practiced by millions of people throughout
the world.
Judo is one of the most practiced martial arts in the world.
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Kano Jigoro
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The Moral Code
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FRIENDSHIP:
“The purest of human emotions”
COURAGE:
“Doing what is fair”
SINCERITY:
“Expressing oneself honestly”
HONOUR:
“Respecting what one says”
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MODESTY:
“Speaking about oneself without pride”
RESPECT:
“Without respect, trust cannot exist”
SELF CONTROL:
“Knowing how to control one’s anger”
POLITENESS:
“Respecting one another”
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Complementary Values
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The best use of energy
The practice of Judoka requires searching for the best use of physical and mental energy.
This principle means applying the most pertinent solution to every problem: acting at the right time,
using the strength and the intentions of an opponent against him or herself.
It encourages athletes to be constantly and dynamically searching for perfection.
Mutual aid and success
In Judo, individual progress comes through mutual aid and combining one’s strength with the strength of others.
The presence of a partner, and of a group, is necessary and beneficial to the progression of each participant.
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The Benefits of Judo
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Self-defense, discipline, exercise and action…
Judo provides participants with endless benefits. It enables a re-balancing between the physical and
the mental. It also allows the development of numerous mental skills, such as concentration,
self-confidence, self-control, channeling of aggression, and respecting rules, partners, opponents and
referees.
Judo allows children to socialize, and helps them develop the meaning of living in a community.
Judo is also known for its rigors and discipline. It also helps to develop qualities of flexibility,
relaxation, strength, gentleness, anticipation, speed and coordination as well as developing a sense
of balance.
From a physical point of view, judo strengthens muscles, joints and the cardiovascular system.
Judo is open to all age groups and represents an ideal sport for kids. Yet, because Judo consists
of numerous technical methods, which can take a lifetime to master, it remains a challenging sport
for adults, as well.
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© 2009 Westchester Judo
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