Judo, translated as “gentle way” from Japanese, stands as a modern unarmed martial art, combat sport, and Olympic discipline since 1964. It represents the preeminent form of jacket wrestling on the international stage. Conceived in 1882 by Kanō Jigorō, Judo emerged as an eclectic martial art, setting itself apart from predecessors like Tenjin Shinyo-ryu jujutsu and Kitō-ryū jujutsu by prioritizing “randori” (free sparring) over “kata” (pre-arranged forms), while omitting striking and weapon training elements.
Its ascent began with victories in tournaments held by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, leading to its adoption as the department’s primary martial art. Practitioners of Judo, known as “judoka,” don the “judogi,” the traditional uniform.
Competitive Judo aims to throw opponents, pin them to the ground, or prompt submission through joint locks or chokes. While strikes and weapon usage are present in some pre-arranged forms, they are infrequently trained and prohibited in Judo competitions or free practice. Governed internationally by the International Judo Federation, Judo athletes participate in the professional circuit organized by the IJF.
Judo Timetable
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
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Judo
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