Judo (Japan) can be literally translated as “gallant manner”. It is a Japanese martial art that originated at the end of the 19th century. The most important part is the competitive element where the aim 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 that we call kata. During a match, blows and punches are not allowed. The philosophy and pedagogy developed for judo have become a 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 clearly defined styles can be distinguished:
- Olympic Judo
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Judo-do
- Kawaishi-ryu jujutsu
- Kosen Judo
- Russian Judo
- Sambo
- Materials
In judo, very few materials are actually used. A judo suit, called a gi, with accompanying belt is sufficient to start training.
