What is judo? Judo is a martial art, a method of self defense, an Olympic sport, and much more.
Although the techniques of grappling have existed for hundreds and likely thousands of years (there’s only so many ways to skin a cat), judo was formalized into a training system by the late Dr. Jigoro Kano in 1882 in Tokyo, Japan. Dr. Kano took his extensive training in traditional Japanese jujitsu, eliminated or modified many of the deadly and disabling techniques, added a moral and philosophical base, and created judo.
Judo is known for big throws, some of which are seen in the video above. Shoulder throws, hip tosses, foot sweeps and trips, and exotic sacrifice techniques like Tomoe Nage are some of the most well known judo techniques. But judo also has a comprehensive system of ground techniques (known as newaza) including pins, chokes, and arm bars.
Today judo is a very popular sport worldwide, with millions of people from hundreds of countries training and competing. The International Judo Federation runs the professional judo tour, and you can follow their Instagram account to watch some great highlight clips of the top judo players in the world doing their thing.
Waco Judo is now open, and we invite everyone to come train with us. Whether you are a complete beginner or already a black belt, you are welcome. Jiujitsu players and wrestlers will also benefit from cross training. Click here to register for a free trial class.
