Judokas

A judoka is a practitioner of judo, a modern martial art and Olympic sport founded in Japan by Jigoro Kano in 1882. Judoka can be male or female, of all ages and skill levels, from recreational participants to elite competitors.

Judokas train in throws (nage-waza) and grappling (katame-waza) using a judogi on tatami mats. Core objectives include throwing an opponent for ippon (a decisive technique), controlling them on the ground, or forcing a submission through joint locks (kansetsu-waza) or chokes (shime-waza) within safety rules. Training typically combines randori (sparring) with kata (formal drills). Progression is marked by belt ranks, beginning with kyu levels and advancing to dan levels, with black belt grades representing increasing expertise.

Competition and governance: The sport is governed internationally by the International Judo Federation (IJF) and supported by numerous national federations. Judokas compete in local, national, continental, and world championships, with the Olympic Games serving as a pinnacle event. Matches are structured by weight classes and can end by ippon, waza-ari, or time-based decisions, subject to sport-specific rules and safety considerations.

Philosophy and culture: Judo emphasizes maximum efficiency with minimum effort, and mutual welfare and benefit. Safety, respect, and proper etiquette are integral to practice. Judokas wear the judogi, follow competition and training rules, and often pursue continued study of technique, theory, and form as part of long-term development in the discipline.