Modern Judo was developed by Professor Jigoro Kano from the many and ancient Ju-Jitsu systems (about 20 at the time) in Japan in 1882. Taking the best techniques from each of the Ju-Jitsu systems, and adding a few of his own, he founded his own school (the Kodokan) when only 22 years of age. The advantages of Judo over Ju-Jitsu are that Judo is practiced as a sport, rather than as a method of disabling or killing an opponent. Schools of Judo have been established in New Zealand since 1948 and although considered a "minor" sport in this country, in most other parts of the world it enjoys considerable following. There are about 100 Judo Clubs around New Zealand totalling about 5000 Judo players. Many learn the sport just for physical fitness, self-defence and the discipline qualities it brings. Persons from 5 to 75, male and female, have found something in the sport for them.
Judo is a sport which has its origin in the martial arts. Judo was introduced at the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 as a demonstration sport and has been a full Olympic sport since the 1972 Munich Games. Since the Barcelona Olympics, women's judo has also been a full Olympic sport. As a measure of gauging the sport's popularity, at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992, seating at the Judo venue was totally sold out 12 months in advance for all competition days and was the only venue to be sold out. Of all the countries participating it the games, Judo was second only to track and field in representation.
Most Martial Arts have a system of indicating the level of attainment. Colours are there to indicate what lever the student has attained. A white belt is for a person who has not been graded. The white belt is followed by yellow, orange, green, blue, brown and the black belt. From 1st dan (black) there are 10 levels to progress through. Children are graded differently. having to attain coloured 'table' before attaining a full coloured belt. To progress through the grades, the students must be able to perform techniques and show knowledge to a minimum standard as indicated by the current NZ Judo Federation syllabus.
For a beginner, a track suit or rugby jersey is suitable. Second-hand Judo suits are available through Judo Clubs or local newspaper advertisements. New Judo suits can be purchased from martial arts shops, and by mail order through the club.
No. Most of the terms used in Judo are in the Japanese language and are taught as one learns the various techniques. They soon become very familiar.
No. You may practice Judo just to keep fit, for fun or self-defence.
As with all sporting clubs and organisations, there are club fees payable. This is to cover hall rental, mat maintenance and purchase, and registration with the New Zealand Judo Federation. Grading fees are additional. A discount arrangement exists where more than one member of the same family join. As none of the Club Instructors are paid for their services, club fees can be kept to a minimum.