There are many reasons why judo is such a popular sport and activity.
*Judo is an activity enjoyed by males and females of all ages.
*Judo develops athletic qualities and skills from basic physical literacy to complex movement patterns and tactics.
*Judo offers avenues of philosophical exploration, for it is rooted in Japanese culture.
*Judo is an excellent form of self-defence; it also develops
conflict management skills.
*Judo is a sport that can be pursued towards national, regional, and even Olympic competitions.
*Judo programs offer a safe and challenging environment in which each judoka can achieve his or her potential. The Japanese word “Judo” literally means the “gentle way”. Balance, timing, strategy and tactics are essential characteristics of this sport and art. The objective in judo is to apply these principles to the many throwing and grappling techniques. Judo is both a fun and high-energy activity as well as a relaxing and calming exercise. The various movements and techniques can be learned with games and are perfected through practice with a partner. In short, Judo has a wide range of appeal as a sport, an art, a discipline, a recreational pastime, a social activity, a fitness program, a means of self-defense, and a way of life. JUDO VALUES
One of the distinguishing aspects of judo is how its basic values and principles translate into a way of life. What is learned on the mat through hard judo training transfers at home, at school, at work, or at play. These values include:
*playing by the rules
*co-operating with others
*respecting self and others
*self-discipline and humility
*self-confidence and commitment
*perseverance and determination
*concentrating and controlling emotions
THE BOW (Rei)
The bow, seeded in Japanese tradition, is a symbol of respect and trust. As a contact and impact activity in which partners need each other to learn and progress, partners are responsible for each other's safety and well-being. Therefore, when we bow on the judo mat before the exercise, we entrust our partner. After the exercise, we bow in thanks for not violating that trust. SHORT HISTORY
Judo was founded in 1882 in Japan by a young scholar named Jigoro Kano (1860-1938). Kano wanted to develop a system of physical education suitable for the newly emerging Japanese public educational system. He derived judo from the ancient art of
jiu-jitsu. The system he developed is based on two key principles: maximum efficiency and mutual welfare. It aimed to teach how to subdue without injuring the opponent. According to Kano, “Judo is a teaching for life itself and with it we learn to overcome the pitfalls and obstacles of everyday living”. The school where he taught his first students in Tokyo, called Kodokan, is regarded as the world center of judo. Every year it attracts thousands of judokas of all ages and skill levels. ABOUT US:
Kerikeri's Bay Judo is a family-oriented judo school operated by a diverse team of local judoka welcoming all ages and abilities 5+. With a foundation in Kodokan philosophy and judo style, we hope to promote better members of society through the practice and application of Judo along with its high standards of ethical behaviour. All facets of Judo are represented in both dynamic and static forms through a sequential learning methodology and a safe environment. Bay Judo is affiliated with Auckland Judo Association, the New Zealand Judo Federation, the Oceanic Judo Federation and the International Judo Federation. All grades attained by the registered students in this school are therefore recognised internationally. Students have the opportunity to compete in national and regional competitions in either shiai (fighting) or kata (stylised free-form movements). Although traditional Judo is taught, fun modern teaching methods and approaches are employed so all ages/abilities can advance at their own pace. Bay Judo is currently operating from the KK Scout Den (28 Landing Road) in Kerikeri... A place we affectionately have nicknamed the "Denjo."
