From HealthPRO on "What is Judo?
Practiced by millions around the world and deemed an official Olympic sport since 1964, Judo is a martial arts form developed in Japan hundreds of years ago. First practiced by the samurai and feudal warrior classes, Judo means “the gentle way,” referring to techniques which involve giving way to the force of one’s opponent. In practice, however, Judo is an intense physical sport and powerful means of self-defense.
Combining jujitsu with mental discipline, Judo techniques include throws, falls, and grappling moves such as pins, chokes, and arm locks. Judo does not involve kicking, punching, or striking and does not use weapons or equipment. Rather, two individuals use balance, power, movement, and gripping of the opponent’s judo uniform or judo gi to try to subdue one another. Mastery of judo techniques takes considerable time, effort, and energy and involves rigorous physical and mental training.
Judo Way of Living or Code of Ethics
More than just a combat sport, Judo offers students a code of ethics – that is, a way of living and being. It is a part of the physical education program of numerous junior high and high schools, colleges, training centers, and clubs around the world where people are discovering the way of life known as judo.
Judo Practice Skills and Techniques
A student practicing Judo is called a Judoka, while a Judo teacher is called Sensei, meaning “one who came before.” This is a reminder that anyone can become a Sensei with time and practice and that the job of the Sensei is to instruct his students as he was taught by his former Sensei. The primary objective of a Judo Dojo is the continuance of the tradition of Judo.
Demanding great physical prowess and mental discipline, techniques and skills practiced in Judo include:
Lifting and throwing opponents onto their back
Pinning opponents down to the ground
Controlling opponents
Applying different chokeholds or joint locks until submission
Through daily practice, Judo students develop a sound base of fundamental skills, knowledge, and ability, allowing them to be formidable opponents in competition and turning them into first-rate athletes.
Benefits of Judo
Judo benefits people in multiple physical ways, including:
Developing physical fitness
Growth in strength and flexibility
Increased speed and agility
Greater endurance
Good static and dynamic balance
Improved reaction time
Excellent coordination
Increased self-confidence
Indeed, many students become bigger, stronger, and faster through their Judo practice.
Beyond the physical, Judo students learn:
To control their feelings, emotions, and impulses
About the nature of competition
How to overcome their fears
How to show courage in the face of pressure or fear
The value of a solid work ethic, valuable social skills
About justice and fairness
To build meaningful relationships with others"
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