Judo is a traditional martial art which has developed into a very popular modern sport practised all over the world.
It is a dynamic sport which can be separated into two sections, 'Standing' Judo where a player tries to throw their opponent and 'Ground Work' where players grapple one another aiming to pin their opponents on their back, or submit their opponents in the way of an armlock or choke, there is no striking or kicking in judo.
It is a great sport to develop physical fitness, strength, flexibility, co - ordination and discipline, but it also exercises the mind, students are encouraged to think about how and why various techniques are effective and what can be done to improve their own performance.
Players wear a white cotton judo suit and practise on a soft mat surface, Judo is a little different to most conventional team sports in that it focuses on the individual, But is practised in a group situation.
The english translation of Judo is the "gentle way" and the sport is based on principles of using an opponents movement and strength combined with your own skill and technique to overcome them.
These are just a few reasons that judo has become such a successful sport all over the world.
Introduced as an Olympic Sport in 1964, Judo can be practised at a competitive level or simply for the many benefits it provides. It is inexpensive, can be practised all year round and it's benefits can be enjoyed by both boys and girls from as young as 7 years, through to seniors and beyond.
