The beginnings of judo are to be found in the Bushido tradition of the Japanese warrior class, the Samurai, although Kodokan Judo (Judo meaning the Gentle Way and Kodokan meaning a Hall for studying the Way) was not codified until the 1880’s. It is a synthesis of a variety of jujitsu techniques, modified by its creator Jigaro Kano in order to increase the safety factor. Kano was concerned to construct a martial art which not only built physical skills and fitness, but also developed self awareness. He once said “Judo in reality is not a mere sport or game. I regard it as a principle of life, art, science. In fact it is a means for personal cultural attainment”.
Now, Judo is an Olympic sport and is practised world-wide, although the etiquette and traditions of Japanese culture remain, and its terminology stays rooted in the Japanese language.
Judo is an activity which is open to everybody, from the young and fit who may have their sights set on representing their country, to the more mature recreational player or those who wish to learn self defence. There are nearly as many reasons for taking up judo as there are individuals who practise it.
The techniques involved in Judo can be divided into two categories - standing techniques (throws), and groundwork (hold downs, arm locks and strangles). There are many throws to be learned, which, when they have become second nature, can be fitted together fluently in order to outwit and overcome your partner or opponent. In contest Judo, the competition is over when one player scores Ippon (a full point) either by a clean throw or by a submission or hold down in groundwork. If a throw does not rate an Ippon score, the players may continue the contest into groundwork, seeking a hold down - pinning their opponent on the back for 30 seconds - or a submission from a strangle or arm lock.
As a contact sport, Judo has required relatively little adaptation to make it accessible to VI players. Once the players have taken their grips, there is no difference in the style or skills required. Anyone interested in taking up Judo should find an accredited club with a qualified instructor. If difficulty is experienced in finding a local club, further details can be obtained from:
BJA,
Tel: 01509 631670 www.britishjudo.org.uk
