Judo (Japan) can be literally translated as “gallant manner”. It is a Japanese martial art that originated in the late 19th century. The main part is the competitive element where the goal is to throw the opponent to the ground or to apply an elbow lock or choke. Strikes and punches are also part of judo but only in certain patterns called kata . Strikes and punches are not allowed during a match . The philosophy and pedagogy that were developed for judo have become the model for almost all Japanese martial arts that have emerged from the traditional schools. Practitioners of judo are called judoka .
Judo styles
Kano Jigoro's Kodokan Judo is the most popular and best known style of judo but it is certainly not the only one. The terms judo and jiujitsu used to be used interchangeably but nowadays there are really distinct styles to distinguish:
- Olympic Judo
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Judo-do
- Kawaishi-ryu jujutsu
- Kosen Judo
- Russian Judo
- Sambo
- Materials
Judo actually uses very few materials. A judo suit , called a gi , with the corresponding belt is sufficient to start training.
