People choose to practice Judo for a number of reasons. Some are looking for a fun sport they can participate in. Others feel that Judo is an art or a fitness program or a way to discipline themselves. Others take up lessons in Judo because it is a great way to learn combat self defense.
History of Judo for Combat Self Defense
Kodokan Judo is a fighting form of the discipline that was created in Japan. It was founded by a man name Dr. Jigoro Kano in the year 1882. Dr. Kano developed Judo after refining another ancient martial art - the discipline of Jujitsu.
In 1964, Judo was first played in the Olympic Games. Today the martial art is practiced across the globe by millions of people. Practitioners of the sport use Judo to build self-confidence, to increase endurance, to stay in shape, and to socialize. But for many people, the practice of Judo is a hobby that is a lot of fun.
Practicing Judo Today
Because so many people are learning Judo around the world, there are many variants and schools of thought. The type of training you receive will depend largely upon your goals for learning Judo. Someone who enrolls in Judo for fitness may study techniques that vary from those learned by someone who competes in tournaments or someone who is training to use Judo as a form of self defense against an attacker.
There are lots of options for learning Judo. Private instructors offer individual lessons, but you can also take lessons in a class setting at the college level, at community centers, and in gyms and health clubs. For self-learners there are several internet resources, books, and self defense videos available to teach you the basics of Judo.
Skill and Rank
A system of ranking has been established within judo that has spread and is used in other martial arts programs. The rank system is designed to indicate a person's level of leadership, knowledge, and ability. Different ranks are established for youth participates under the age of 17. Colored belts are used to denote ranks, and black belts work their way through ten additional black belt levels. The ranking system is used as a way to encourage students of the sport to continue the process of learning and achievement.
Kodokan Goshin Jutsu
Kodokan Goshin Jutsu is a specific branch of Judo. This discipline is comprised of 21 combat self defense techniques that can be used against an attacker who is either armed or unarmed. There are two sets of unarmed tactics and three set of armed tactics with weapons. Individual techniques included in this training are designed for fights that are close-in, others are for longer-range fights and they include techniques that use a knife, stick, or gun.
Before You Get Started
If you are interested in training, make sure you are healthy enough to participate in the activity. Look for qualified and skilled instructors that will ensure your safety during training.
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