Created in Japan, Judo is a Martial Art practiced all around the world. It’s a combat system and Olympic sport that uses throws, trips, pins, and submissions to defeat an opponent in a self-defense situation or competition. Due to its practicality and effectiveness, Judo techniques are also used by Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners and Mixed Martial Artists.
Our Judo curriculum here at Absolute MMA in West Jordan is taught by Rob Handley. Rob Handley is a Judo blackbelt and three-time national medalist in the US Judo Nationals. He’s invested in helping you accomplish your goals with Judo by teaching you proven techniques and fundamentals.
The history of Judo
Judo’s roots go all the way back to Japan in the late 1800s with Jigoro Kano creating the Martial Art and sport.
At age 14, Kano started reaching out to JuJutsu instructors due to the bullying that was happening at the school he studied at. Unfortunately, the westernization of Japan started to make JuJutsu unpopular making it difficult for young Kano to find a teacher who’d show him more than kata (pre-arranged movements). Kano eventually met teachers who greatly influenced Kano’s Martial Arts philosophy and curricula such as Fukuda Hachinosuke, Iso Masatomo, and Iikubo Tsunetoshi.
With his vision realized and techniques developed, Kano founded his own dojo in February 1882. Kano began teaching students in what became known as the Kodokan which translates to “place for expounding the way”.
Judo grew in international popularity was added to the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo for men with women’s Olympic Judo starting as an official event in 1992. Judo is also used in Mixed Martial Arts by fighters known for their Judo accomplishments such as Ronda Rousey, Fedor Emelianenko, and Naoya Ogawa.
Common terms you may hear in a Judo class
Below is a list of common terms used in the world of Judo:
- Judoka: A practitioner of Judo
- Judogi: The traditional uniform worn by Judoka
- Waza: Techniques
- Nage-waza: Throwing techniques
- Katama-waze: Grappling techniques
- Break-fall: A way to land after a trip or a throw to prevent the risk of injury
- Randori: Free practice or sparring with varying levels of intensity
If you’re unfamiliar with any terminology used in class, don’t hesitate to ask your Absolute MMA instructors. They’re invested in your success and want to help you learn and grow as a Martial Artist.
Is Judo safe to learn?
Judo is a combat sport and you may receive a few bruises from time to time. You’ll learn proper techniques such as break-falling to avoid injury when being thrown or taken down. Every class begins with warmups to increase blood flow throughout your body so you’re ready to participate in class. If you’re ever unsure about a move being taught in class, ask your instructor for assistance and they’ll answer your questions.
Come train with us at Absolute MMA!
We teach children and adults of all levels and varying degrees of experience here in West Jordan, Utah. You’ll meet everyone from beginners to professional athletes who want to learn and grow together. Our instructors bring their experience and passion to each class with a focus on helping you achieve your goals.
Sign up for your free one-week trial here! https://absolutemma.com/free-trial/