What is Judo

Judo(柔道) the 'gentle way' is a tremendous and dynamic combat sport that demands both physical prowess and great mental discipline. From a standing position, it involves techniques that allow you to lift and throw your opponents onto their backs. On the ground, it includes techniques that allow you to pin your opponents down to the ground, control them, and apply various chokeholds or joint locks until submission.

Judo was developed in Japan by Dr Jigoro Kano towards the end of the 19th century and has evolved from being a martial art into one of the world's most popular sports.

  • Judo does not involve kicking, punching, or striking techniques of any kind.
  • Judo does not involve the application of pressure against the joints to throw an opponent.
  • Judo involves no equipment or weapons of any sort.

Instead, judo simply involves two individuals who, by gripping the judo uniform or judogi, use the forces of balance, power, and movement to attempt to subdue each other. Thus, it is simple and basic. In its simplicity, however, lies its complexity, and mastery of even the most basic of judo techniques that often take considerable time, effort, and energy, involving rigorous physical and mental training.

Since its inclusion in the 1964 Olympic Games, Judo has progressed rapidly. Currently there are more than 20 million participants worldwide, making it the most popular combat sport in the world. In terms of national sporting organisations worldwide, Judo is one of the most widely practiced and recognised sports in the world, with the greatest number of members in the International Judo Federation, or IJF.

About Monash Judo

Monash Judo helps develop a diverse range of fitnesses; utilising aerobic and anaerobic systems (both lactic and alactic), flexibility, joint mobility, isometric strength and explosive power. You will learn to fall safely, a crucial skill in any sport.

Additionally, Monash Judo Club also offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) classes — giving you two exciting options to choose from!

Judo

  • More focus on throws
  • Wearing judo gi (uniform) in training and competition
  • Olympics Sports
Learn more

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

  • Emphasizes ground fighting and control
  • Have both gi and no-gi section in training and competition
  • Not Olympics Sports yet, but very popular too
Learn more