WHAT IS JUDO?

Judo, which means "gentle way" in Japanese, is a martial art created in Japan by Jigorō Kanō in 1882 and derived from the ancient techniques of jiu-jitsu. It is the most widely practiced martial art in the world. Judo was introduced as an Olympic sport at the Tokyo 1964 Games and is now practiced by people of all ages, genders, and abilities worldwide.

“Judo is the way to the most effective use of both physical and spiritual strength. By training you in attacks and defences, it refines your body and your soul and helps you make the spiritual essence of Judo a part of your very being. In this way you can perfect yourself and contribute something of value to the world.

This is the final goal of Judo discipline.”

— Kanō

Portrait of the late Mr. Kanō.

AUCKLAND JUDO HIGHLIGHTS

Two women in judo uniforms standing on a winner's podium, smiling with medals around their necks. One is on the first-place position, and the other on the second-place position, at a judo competition.
Children practicing martial arts on mats inside a sports arena with seating, banners, and digital screens.
Children in martial arts uniforms sitting in rows on a gym floor, with some raising their hands, while a man in shorts and a hoodie appears to be instructing or addressing them. Others stand around watching the scene under a large, high-ceilinged spo
Judo athletes on a winners' podium with medals at the 2024 New Zealand National Judo Championships. They are dressed in white judogi with black belts. Two officials are clapping nearby.
Group of young judo athletes on the podium wearing martial arts uniforms with medals around their necks in indoor gymnasium.
Two male judo competitors engaged in a match, with one performing a throw on the other on a judo mat, while a referee observes in the background.
Group of seven women in judo uniforms smiling and celebrating with medals, some kneeling and others standing, on a judo mat in a gymnasium.