What is Judo
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What is Judo
Welcome to the world of judo! Judo is practiced by more than 100 million people in more than 200 countries worldwide. There are many reasons why judo is such a popular sport and activity.
- Judo is an activity that is enjoyed by males and females of all ages.
- Judo develops athletic qualities and skills from basic physical literacy to complex movement patterns and tactics.
- Judo offers avenues of philosophical exploration for it is rooted in Japanese culture.
- Judo is an excellent form of self defense; it also develops conflict management skills.
- Judo is a sport which can be pursued towards Olympic glory.
- Judo programs offer a safe and challenging environment in which each judoka can achieve his or her potential.
Introduction to Judo
In short, Judo has a wide range of appeal as a sport, an art, a discipline, a recreational pastime, a social activity, a fitness program, a means of self-defense, and a way of life.
Embracing Judo
The Japanese word “Judo” literally means the “gentle way”. Balance, timing, strategy and tactics, are essential characteristics of this sport and art. The objective in judo is to apply these principles to the many throwing and grappling techniques. Judo is both a fun and high-energy activity as well as a relaxing and calming exercise. The various movements and techniques can be learned through games, exercises and drills, and are perfected by practicing with a partner.
Judo Pathways
For those interested in competitive judo, there are many opportunities to develop as an athlete from the club right up to the Olympic level. Within Canada, there are various club, regional, provincial and national competitions for all ages. In 1964, Judo was included in the summer Olympic Games program. Since that time, Canadian judo athletes have won two silver and two bronze medals at the Olympics and many more medals at the World championships and other international competitions.
Canada's Judo Champion
Nicolas Gill is one of Canada’s sporting heroes. Canada’s most decorated judoka competed at four Olympic Games in a row, winning the 86 kilogram bronze medal in 1992 and the 100 kilogram silver medal in 2000. He has one silver and two bronze world championship medals, two Pan American Games titles, a Commonwealth Games gold medal, and 10 national titles to his credit. His accomplishments were recognized when he was chosen to be Canada’s flag bearer at the 2004 Olympic Games