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In Japanese Ju means "to give way" and Do, "way" or "principle", so that Judo means the way
or principle of giving way in order to ultimately gain the victory. Judoka (those who practice Judo) strive for Seriyoku-zenyo
(maximum efficiency, minimum effort).
Judo's philosophy is Jita-kyoei (mutual welfare and benefit), as expressed by its founder, Professor Jigoro Kano:
"The aim of Judo is to utilize physical and mental strength most effectively. Its training is to understand the
true meaning of life through the mental and physical training of attack and defense. You must develop yourself as a person
and become a useful citizen to society." Born for the Mat (translated by Keiko Fukuda, 1973,
pp. 9)
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Judo is an excellent way for kids to learn self-protection and self-defense, develop coordination and overcome self-confidence
problems.
A Judo workout conditions the body both aerobically and anaerobically, builds strength and increases flexibility. The
Judo student learns: focus, goal setting, goal achieving, dealing with aggression without over reacting, rolls, falls, throws,
pins, escapes and more. Best of all, Judo provides an opportunity for fun, fellowship, thinking and exercising--all at the
same time!
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