About judo
A brief history of Judo
Judo was created in 1882 by Professor Jigoro Kano, who, building on ju-jutsu techniques, removed dangerous holds and introduced modern elements with an emphasis on safety and philosophy. The name 'judo' means 'gentle way' (ju - softness, yielding; do - way), reflecting its character as a martial art in which control and respect for the opponent play a key role. From its inception, judo was more than a fighting system - it was an integral tool for physical and moral development.
Jigoro Kano formulated three fundamental principles that have become the basis for judo adepts:
- "Give way and you shall prevail".Instead of direct resistance, use your opponent's strength to your advantage.
- "Maximum effect with minimum effort"Rely on the precision of techniques and the efficiency of action.
- "Mutual good and benefit"The pursuit of self-improvement should go hand in hand with a concern for the development of others.
Modern judo is practised both as a sport and as a form of recreation, but is also used in the training of the uniformed services. Professor Kano aimed for judo to become a complete system of physical education that combined physical development (renshindo), sports competition (shoubuho) and mental and ethical development (shushinho).
Through judo training, its adepts develop strength, endurance and reflexes, but above all, they shape character, observing the principles of ethics and mutual respect.
Why judo?
Judo is a unique sport that has gained Olympic status and is popular all over the world with both men and women of all ages. Judo is not just a sport, but a way of life - deeply rooted in tradition and culture. Training includes learning pads (safe falls), throwing techniques, levers, chokes and holds, and an essential element is respect for the opponent and the observance of rituals. This makes judo an effective defence system, also used in police and military training.
Judo - all-round sport, recreation and school of life
Judo is an all-round combat sport that combines physical development with the refinement of mental skills and ethical values. In a sporting context, competitors use throwing, holding and leverage techniques, competing according to rules that ensure safety and eliminate brutality.
Judo is also a popular form of recreation, improving coordination, balance and flexibility, and learning to paddle increases safety in everyday life.
Moreover, judo acts as an educational system, shaping character traits such as discipline, respect and perseverance, thus helping to develop not only physically but also morally and socially.