As part of the build up to the Olympics this year, SportsCover Direct will be publishing a series of blogs shedding some light on some of the lesser known Olympic sports and showing how you can get involved!
The Origins
Judo was created by a student of Ju-Jitsu, Dr Jigoro Kano, who created the martial art at the end of the 19th century in Japan. The first Judo club in England was opened in 1918 and it has become one of the world’s most popular martial art.
It’s debut as an Olympic sport was at the 1964 games in Tokyo.
Who can play?
Anyone can get involved in Judo whether your 5 or 95! Attending a club means you have the option of competing but also clubs welcome members who like to do this more leisurely. If you prefer, although not strictly Judo, there are also Judo Fit classes which you can attend to still get a taste of the martial art with a focus on keeping active!
The cost
Judo is a fairly inexpensive hobby. If you attend a club or dojo, they will have all the equipment you need. If you do decide to participate more often and compete in competitions, there will be a small cost for the judogi (a judo suit).
The Equipment
As stated above the only equipment needed is a Judogi which most clubs will be able to lend you when you first start.
When do you play?
Judo is an indoor sport so can be practiced throughout the year.
Good for…
Self-defence and spiritual development! As well as keeping fit, staying active and improving coordination and reflexes.
Team GB prospects for Rio 2016
On the 16th June the Team GB team was announced as; Nekoda Smythe Davis (women’s -57kg), Alice Schlesinger (women’s -63kg), Sally Conway (women’s -70kg), Natalie Powell (women’s -78kg), Ashley McKenzie (men’s -60kg), Colin Oates (men’s -66kg), Benjamin Fletcher (men’s -100kg).
If this has inspired, you to give Judo a go then check out the British Judo http://www.britishjudo.org.uk/ website to find your local Judo club and more about the sport!