Judo was first developed and taught in 1882 by Jigoro Kano. His school was called 'Kodokan Judo' which translates to 'A Place To Study The Way'. The first schools of judo were as much schools as they were dojos. This was because judo was developed to be a form of physical education. It had several educational principles that were taught along side the martial art in order to develop character mind and body. Judo students are taught cooperation (Jita Kyoei) or working for mutual benefit, and principles of efficiency (Seiryoku Zenyo) or how to use the least amount of effort to gain the greatest results.
What is the difference between Judo and Jiu-Jitsu?
Though based on Jiu-Jitsu, Judo is a very different martial art. Judo focuses mainly on grappling and throwing techniques and is for the most part, the scientific application of selected techniques and the teaching of self-development. Jiu-Jitsu consists of more aggressive punches, kicks and self-defense techniques, while Judo is generally the safer art for sparring and can be practiced at full force.
Can I use my karate uniform for my judo class?
Judo focuses on grappling and throwing techniques rather than punching and kicking moves. The judo uniform has evolved over time to accommodate this. Today's Judo uniform consists of a top or Joi which will generally feature reinforced stitching at key stress and contact points such as; the shoulders, the sleeves and the chest areas. The lapels are often stiffened and reinforced to withstand the stresses of pulling tugging and throwing, The joi will also feature unique rice-grain and diamond pattern quilting, this enables students to grip the uniform. The pants, or shitibaki are usually drawstring and feature reinforcement down the front and around the knees. Judo uniforms also generally not as baggy as uniforms used in other martial arts and because of all the extra reinforcement tend to be heavier. Karate uniforms are generally lightweight and baggy and they do not have the durability or design necessary to withstand judo techniques.
Why are there different colored judo uniforms?
In today's competitions one competitor wears a white judo gi while the other wears blue. Traditionally both competitors would wear white, but recently (1997) the International Judo Federation officially decided to use blue uniforms. Black uniforms have become popular in schools and demonstrations, though the color is not endorsed officially.
Uniform Colors
What is the difference between single weave and double weave?
Single weave uniforms are lighter weight than double weave but should be constructed well enough to handle the rigors of judo training and competition. Double weave uniforms are made with extra material and are a much heavier weight. This extra weight adds strength and durability. Beginners generally choose single weave, while advanced students, or those that engage in intensive regular grappling and training tend to choose double weave uniforms.
Single Weave
Double Weave
Do I need anything else?
Both advanced and beginner students may want to look into our judo DVD collection. We also have a complete line of martial arts rank belts as well as a wide range of protective gear including mats and knee pads.
Judo accessories