Judo
is many things to different people. It is
a fun sport, an art, a discipline, fitness
program, a recreational or social activity,
a means of self-defense, and a way of life.
It is all of these and more. What is nice
about Judo is that all age groups and both
sexes can participate together in learning
and practicing the sport. It is a year-round
activity that appeals to people from all
walks of life.
Judo is best known for it's spectacular
throwing techniques but also involves
considerable grappling on the ground utilizing
specialized pins, control holds, arm locks,
and Judo choking techniques. Judo emphasizes
safety, and full physical activity for
top conditioning. We practice Judo on
special mats for comfort and safety.
Judo develops self-discipline and respect
for oneself and others. Judo provides
the means for learning self-confidence,
concentration, and leadership skills,
as well as physical coordination, power,
and flexibility. As a sport that has evolved
from a fighting art, it develops complete
body control, fine balance, and fast reflexive
action. Most importantly, it develops
a sharp reacting mind well-coordinated
with the same kind of body. Judo training
also gives a person an effective self-defense
system if the need arises.
Judo, which is translated as the "gentle
way", teaches the principle of flexibility
in the application of technique. This
is the flexible or efficient use of balance,
leverage, and movement in the performance
of Judo throws and other skills. Skill,
technique and timing, rather than the
use of brute strength, are the essential
ingredients for success in Judo. For example,
in Judo classes you may learn how to give
way, rather than use force, to overcome
a stronger opponent.
As in all sports, Judo has a strict set
of rules that governs competition and
ensures safety. For those who want to
test their skills, Judo offers the opportunity
for competition at all skill levels, from
club to national tournaments, to the Olympic
Games. There are separate weight divisions
for men and women, and boys and girls.