Judo is a Japanese art which means "gentle way." It was founded in the 19th century by Dr. Jigoro Kano, a Japanese educator. Judo is a sport that comes from the older Japanese art of jujutsu. Techniques include throws, grappling, ground fighting, chokes, and specific joint locks.

Kata is a formal demonstration of techniques. There are forms for throwing, groundwork, and self-defense. For many of the demonstrations, the person performing the technique (called "tori") cannot act until he is attacked by his partner (called "uke").

Free practice in judo is called randori. Standing randori (called "tachi waza") consists mostly of throws and counters to throws. It is how a tournament match begins. Ground randori (called "ne waza") demonstrates skills in holding positions on the ground and submitting your partner.
​
You can find more information about judo through the links on the "More" page, and looking through our judo syllabus.
​