The martial arts style of Judo can mean a lot of things to different people.  In reality, it is a fun and exciting sport, an art, a discipline, an activity, a way to protect yourself and quite simply, a way of life.  Although you may hear many different meanings, the word Judo actually means all of the above and several more.

Originally founded back in 1882, Judo comes from the feudal Japanese fighting system.  Upon founding, Judo was a refinement of the martial art form of jujitsu.  Jujitsu is one of the oldest martial arts styles, dating back hundreds of years. 

Judo made the biggest impact in 1964, when it was first introduced into the Olympic Games.  Now, it is practiced by millions of people all around the world.  Judo can help students stay in shape, excel in all areas of competition, stay protected with self defense and several other things.  For the majority of students, Judo is practiced just for fun.  Although it starts out as fun for many, it quickly turns into a way of life, a burning passion if you will.

Similar to other martial arts styles, Judo has rules that ensure the safety of those competing in the competitions.   Students of Judo who are looking to test their skills, will enjoy the competition levels, which range from club meets, to national tournaments and on up to the well known and best level of competition - the Olympic Games.

Judo is known best for it’s amazing throw techniques.  What many aren’t aware of, is the fact that Judo is more than just throws.  It also involves grappling on the ground, controlling holds, arm locks, leg locks and even choking techniques.  Judo teaches all aspects of self defense, from a grappler’s standpoint.

Another great thing about Judo, is the fact that anyone can study, male or female, and even those who are disabled.  Judo is also inexpensive to participate in, is taught throughout the year and it appeals to everyone.  This martial art form is also unique, in the sense that even the elderly enjoy practicing it on a daily basis.

Judo also helps students learn and develop respect and self discipline.  It offers the chance to learn self confidence, leadership skills, power, flexibility and physical prowess.  Judo has evolved quite a bit over the years, going from a fighting art, to competition status.  These days, there are separate Judo ranks for kids, adults and seniors. 

The martial arts form Judo, which means “gentle way,” teaches you the applications that you need for self defense, as well as competition.  Judo is unlike other martial arts, in the sense that it combines the best of grappling, with awesome throws that require little to no strength,  but more of the way you position your body.  This is an excellent form of martial arts, that anyone can enjoy.

It is also an excellent way of keeping fit. There are no hectic exercises and speed is not important. To get all over muscle use and to stay trim, try Judo.

If you are interested in the martial arts, for yourself, or for your kids, get “Your Karate Coach.” This is a fixed term membership site, for people who are investigating Karate practice for themselves, or for their youngsters. Join now:
http://www.dersalsites.com/clintstraining/prod/karate/     

Clinton Robson is a South African fitness fanatic and is a qualified Personal Trainer. He is busy doing a special higher level course, to qualify as an Exercise Specialist, or Conditioning Coach and would like to study Bio-Kinetics. At present, he works in 2 gyms, assisting the staff with clients and training plans. He has been working out regularly, for the last 10 years. After completing the higher course, he will seek employment on the cruise ships, to gain more experience and then will open his own gym. He thrives on extreme sports such as canoe marathons, tri-athlons, iron-man, skydiving, bunjee jumping, martial arts etc. He has decided to use blogging as a medium, to share articles on fitness, exercise, bodybuilding, gym, training, weightloss and more, with other interested people. He is part of Dersalsites, run by his family. Visit Clint at: http://dersalsites.com/clintstrainingblog/

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