Judo is a Japanese martial art derived from classical Ju-Jutsu, the martial art of the samurai. The founder of Judo, Jigoro Kano, modified dangerous or inefficient techniques, allowing for safe sparring and competition. Judo became an olympic sport at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, and women's Judo in 1992.
Judo emphasizes dynamic, elegant throws, always seeking to achieve maximum efficiency with minimal effort. Judo also includes grappling with pins, chokes, and arm-bars, quite similar to Brazilian Ju-Jutsu, which is actually a form of Judo developed in the first half of the 20th century. Through the principal of maximum efficiency with minimal effort, a smaller, weaker person can use balance, timing, and body mechanics to easily overcome a larger, stronger opponent.
With traditional and modern training methods, UCSC Judo Club members improve their technique, fitness, and build relationships with each other. We train students both new and experienced students with any level of physical ability. Members are welcome to train Judo in the way that suits them: to aim for serious competition, for self defense, fitness, or just once in a while to have fun and de-stress. We seek to build character, confidence, and integrity in our members, and communal prosperity both on and off the mat.