What is Judo?

Based primarily on Tenjin Shinyo-ryu, Kito-ryu, and Yoshin-ryu styles of Jujutsu, Jigoro Kano developed a comprehensive system he called Judo, the way of flexibility, that emphasized the larger educational value of training in attack and defense, so that it could be a path or way of life that all people could participate in and benefit from.

Judo practice includes two major aspects of training, one called randori, and the other kata. Randori, or free exercise, is practiced under conditions of actual contest. It includes nage-waza (throws) and katame-waza (grappling) as well as osaekomi-waza (immobilizations), shime-waza (chokes) and kansetsu-waza (joint locks). Kata, which literally means form, is a formal system of prearranged exercises, including, throwing, immobilizations, joint locks, striking, and the use of weapons. Additionally, Judo is an Olympic sport practiced by millions the world-over, and competition is a major aspect of regular training. The techniques of Judo are based on the principles of ju yoku go o seisu (gentleness controls strength) and sei ryoku zen yo jita kyoei (maximum efficiency and mutual benefit in all endeavors).

"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."

- Prof. Jigoro Kano

[Excerpted from www.imaf.com]