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Judo

What is Judo?

Judo is a modern Japanese martial art and Olympic sport that focuses on throws, joint locks, and grappling techniques. It was founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882, and its name means "gentle way," reflecting its philosophy of using an opponent's force against them rather than relying on brute strength.

Key principles and components of Judo include:

  1. Throws (Nage-waza): Techniques designed to unbalance and throw an opponent to the ground. These are the most iconic and widely recognized aspects of Judo.
  2. Grappling (Katame-waza): Techniques that include pins, joint locks, and chokeholds, used to control or submit an opponent on the ground.
  3. Breakfalls (Ukemi): Methods for safely falling and landing to prevent injury, which are crucial for both practice and competition.
  4. Randori (Free Practice): A form of sparring where practitioners apply techniques in a controlled, yet dynamic environment to develop timing, reflexes, and adaptability.
  5. Kata (Forms): Pre-arranged sequences of techniques that demonstrate the principles and applications of Judo. These are often practiced to preserve and transmit the art's traditional techniques and philosophies.
  6. Philosophy: Judo emphasizes mutual welfare and benefit (Jita Kyoei) and maximum efficiency with minimum effort (Seiryoku Zenyo). These principles guide both the physical practice and the ethical conduct of its practitioners.

Judo is practiced worldwide and is both a competitive sport and a means of physical and mental development. It has significantly influenced other martial arts and self-defense systems, contributing techniques and training methods that are valued for their effectiveness and efficiency.

Related Article: Jeet Kune Do: Bruce Lee's Revolutionary Martial Art and Philosophy

One whose spirit and mental strength have been strengthened by sparring with a never-say-die attitude should find no challenge too great to handle. One who has undergone long years of physical pain and mental agony to learn one punch, one kick, should be able to face any task, no matter how difficult, and carry it through to the end. A person like this can truly be said to have learned karate.
Gichin Funakoshi

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