Judo

Judo roughly translates as 'gentle way' in Japanese, and though it can appear to be anything but gentle, it's skill, technique and timing that will see you gaining different colour belts as you improve.

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An Overview of Judo

Judo is one of two martial arts included in the Olympics, and it is easy to try it, with all clubs registered with the British Judo Association offering free starter sessions and 'judo gi' (uniforms) to borrow.

Judo is an unarmed Olympic combat sport that demands both physical prowess and great mental discipline. It was founded by Jigoro Kano in Japan in the 1880s and has grown in popularity to become one of the most popular individual sports across the globe. Judo translates into English as "the gentle way".

Judo is the only martial art currently a part of the Paralympics. Visually Impaired or 'VI' Judo is a specially adapted form of judo for individuals with visual and other impairments.

Two players (called judoka) compete against each other on an 8m x 8m matted area for up to 5 minutes with the player scoring the most points winning the contest. Scores of varying degrees are awarded for throws, holds and more, with the coveted "ippon" score ending the contest. If the scores are level at the end of the 5 minute period the contest goes to 'golden score' with the first person to score any point winning the contest.

Benefits

Judo serves as a great cardiovascular workout, which improves stamina, general health and overall fitness. Physical strength is also improved as a direct result of trying to control and dictate the movement of the opponent and as well as enhanced power.

Involvement

Use British Judo's Club Finder.

Adaptations and Equipment

All you need to try judo is baggy/loose old clothing (something you don't mind stretching) or basic gym kit – a t-shirt and jogging bottoms. Most judo clubs have a judo jacket they can loan to you for your first session, after which you may choose to purchase a basic judo kit called a judge. As you progress you will be required to wear a 'Gi' which is the Japanese name for the traditional uniform used for Judo practice and competition.

Facts

Judo, which means "The Gentle Way", is a Japanese martial art based upon the ancient techniques of jujutsu.
In 1972 GB Judo won their first medals in the Olympic Games winning 1 silver medal and 2 bronze medals.
Judo had two female medallists at the London Olympics – Gemma Gibbons and Karina Bryant

Events

SASP Sport Welfare Officers Forum

A online meeting for Sports Club Welfare & Safeguarding Officers based in Somerset.

You're invited to attend our club welfare forum for anyone involved in sport and physical activity in Somerset, but in particular those in your clubs who hold the role of 'club welfare officer' or 'safeguarding lead'.

If you're the Safeguarding or Welfare Officer at your Sports Club, please join Tracey Sweetland, Somerset Sport Welfare Officer at SASP to learn about local support and opportunities to assist you in your volunteer role.

Judo

Judo

An Overview of Judo

Benefits

Involvement

Adaptations and Equipment

Facts

National Governing Bodies

British Judo Association

SASP Sport Welfare Officers Forum

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