Judo

Judo, meaning "gentle way," is a modern Japanese martial art and combat sport founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano.

 

Derived from various traditional Japanese martial arts, primarily jujutsu, Judo emphasizes throwing, grappling, and groundwork techniques, along with pins, joint locks, and chokeholds, while excluding strikes.

 

A judoka, or judo practitioner, aims to use their opponent's strength and momentum against them through skillful execution and leverage, rather than relying solely on brute force.

 

Judo is now an Olympic sport and is globally recognized for its focus on physical fitness, mental discipline, and the development of character, embodying principles like mutual benefit and maximum efficiency.