About Judo
Judo is a traditional Japanese art which has developed into a very popular modern sport practiced all over the world. The English translation of judo is “the gentle way”and the sport is based on the principle of using an opponent’s movement and strength combined with your own skill and technique to overcome them.
Judo is a little different to most conventional team sports in that is focuses on the individual, but is practiced in a group situation. Players use a combination of controlled throwing and grappling techniques which are practiced through repetition and free practice. Players wear a white cotton judo suit and practice on a soft mat surface. It is a great sport to develop physical fitness, strength and flexibility, but it also exercised the mind. Students are encouraged to think about how and why the various techniques are effective and what can be done to improve their own performance. This is just one of the reasons that judo has become such a successful sport all over the world.
Introduced as on Olympic sport in 1964, judo can be practiced at a competitive level, or simply for the many benefits it provides. it is inexpensive, can be practiced all year round and its benefits can be enjoyed by both boys and girls from as young as 4 years through to seniors and beyond.