Judo is one of the most widely respected martial arts in the world. The Japanese martial art gave birth to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and several other martial arts styles. Where did it come from?
Judo is widely recognized as one of the most popular and respected forms of martial arts. It was the first Japanese martial art to reach international prominence and the first to become an Olympic sport. It is respected around the world.
Despite this, it does not currently have the following that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has and isn’t viewed as being effective for self-defense or having practical use in the street. There is still a great deal of misinformation about Judo.
Judo: Origins
Judo was created by Kanō Jigorō. He was introduced to martial arts at an early age, learning the basic concepts of Jujutsu. While studying at a university, he studied Jujutsu under Yagi Teinosuke and later Fukuda Hachinosuke. Kano continued studying and training. He realized that he needed to focus on technique and began to study the technique of experienced Jujutsu practitioners. He refined his technique, removed elements of Jujutsu that he felt were ineffective. His philosophy focused on maximum use of energy.
In 1882, Kano created the Kodokan dojo. In the years that followed, his following grew. As the Japanese government hosted different countries, Kano's school demonstrated and other countries became familiar with the art. Since its inception, Kano has stressed that Judo is used for self-defense, physical fitness, and development of character. Kano stressed that his students become contributors to society. Kano died in 1938, but by this time, his art was well known and Judo clubs developed around the world. In 1964, Judo was introduced as an Olympic sport.
Judo: An Effective Martial Art
The core goal of Judo, whether used in self-defense or as a sport, is to throw or take an opponent to the ground. From the ground, the goal is to force the opponent to submit via a joint lock or choke. The participant is known as a Judoka. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has its origins in Judo.