JUDO - the sport and martial art Judo was founded in Japan in the 19th century. The word "Judo" means the "gentle way."

The founder of Judo was Master Jigoro Kano, Professor of the Tokyo University. In forming Judo, Jigoro Kano chose several fundamental principals from other forms of martial arts, many from Jujitsu.

These principals allow students of Judo to easily conquer the opponent without endangering the opponent's health or life. The main precept of the sport of Judo are as follows:

1) use your opponent's power against him and

2) all students practice for the good of everyone as well as everyone's development.

These precepts translate to techniques in the Judo class room which teach students to conquer his/her opponent without using any physical restraint, allowing the weak to conquer the strong and the small in size to conquer the large. In addition, anyone practicing judo on a regular basis will, in a short period of time, notice the improvement of his/her physical power, flexibility, reflexes and physical conditioning. Judo is also a proven way to enhance one's holistic development and self-esteem. Judo also teaches respect for oneself and others. It allows one to overcome weaknesses and provides the strength and ability to handle difficult situations.