Discover Judo

Why Judo?

Judo is an ideal sport for all ages, males or females and attracts many disability groups. Confidence and self-esteem are enhanced as a player progresses through the ranks and the very nature of the grading system ensures that the next goal is always realistic and achievable with effort. The grading system also ensures that regardless of their skill level all Judo players can actively compete with players of similar ability and hence they have a reasonable chance of emerging victorious.

Because of the nature of the sport of Judo, strict discipline is essential and great importance is placed on safety, hygiene and etiquette.

Safety techniques such as mastering the several methods of break-falling to fall and land safely, this gives players the confidence to participate fully. Safety is also controlled by the contest rules, which are modified for certain ages and belt levels and are constantly updated to exclude harmful actions - this allows Judo to be practiced in a spirited manner without undue risk of harm or injury.

Hygiene is essential due to the close physical contact between players and Judo etiquette instils respect, modesty, politeness and general social skills on all participants.

Discipline and self-control - it is rare indeed to see a player ungracious in defeat at any level from Club training to International competition. A handshake almost always follows the traditional courteous rei (bow) at the end of a contest and the defeated player, though perhaps disappointed with the result, remains respectful of the winner.

Judo has also been seen to actively reduce bullying, bullies can only get away with their reigns of terror in relatively uncontrolled environments and the disciplined Dojo (training hall), removes them from their position of power. At the same time they themselves learn discipline and self control, quite often whilst losing to players who were previously a victim of their bullying, this gives them a new perspective and a newfound respect for such players.

Dr Jigoro Kano the founder of Judo said, "Judo is a teaching for life itself and with it we learn to overcome the pitfalls and obstacles of everyday living" his words still ring true. 

Read more about the origins of judo  or Find a club near you  and begin your Judo journey.

What are the Benefits of Judo?

The benefits of learning and training to be a Judo player includes:

• An ideal form of physical exercise
• A great cardiovascular workout, improving stamina, general health and overall fitness.
• Improved physical strength as a direct result of trying to control and dictate the movement of the opponent and as well as enhanced power;
• Improved flexibility, balance and posture,
• Developing co-ordination reflexes together with mental reaction time.

Judo has many moral benefits that are a direct result of the transition from martial art to what Kano termed "Do" or "way of life".

• Kano developed a strict code of ethics and a humanitarian philosophy.
• His Judo instructors and students were expected to be outstanding examples of good character and honest conduct. Combat outside of the training hall or behaviour that brought shame to the school would lead to suspension or even expulsion.
• Kano's ultimate concern for the well being of both the individual and the community is reflected in his teaching methods and one of Judo's guiding principles is "mutual benefit and prosperity".
• Kano believed that the diligent practice of Judo should lead to the realization that one could not progress at the expense of others; only mutual prosperity offered the key to any real progress in human life.

These principles still underpin the sport today and this can be seen from the respect shown between rival exponents.

Judo for all

Judo is an inexpensive, safe, dynamic contact sport, which is suitable for boys & girls, men & women. It promotes:

• Self Confidence
• Strength
• Stamina
• Self-discipline

The benefits of judo for children include fitness, flexibility, co-ordination, self-confidence and discipline. In addition, as judo includes no kicking and no punching.

Information for parents

Judo Queensland afflicated Judo Clubs provide Judo training and competition in various locations across Queensland. A full list, of our member clubs by location is availble under the Find a Club section of this website. Search here to find your local Club's contact details.

All Judo Queensland affiliated clubs in 2011 will have a Certificate of Affiliation to display in the Dojo. An important point is that Judo Queensland Clubs have nationally qualified Coaches to teach and coach Judo.

Coaches are accrediated through the Judo Federation Australia (JFA), Judo Queensland and/or the Australian Sports Commission, all have a current First Aid Certificate and a working with Children Blue Card. Please ask to see your coach's qualifications for peace of mind.

Judo coaching qualifications have progressions starting with Assistant Club Level, Club Level and State Level. Our coaches are committed to regular educational seminars and to the Australian Sports Commission 4 yearly reaccreditation processes.

As Judo parents we would like you to become involved with your child's progression both on and off the mat. For your club and for Judo Queensland to operate volunteers are required to run functions from a club BBQ to helping run competitons against other clubs.