Uku-Yama

Judo, meaning "gentle way", is a modern Japanese martial art that originated in Japan in the late nineteenth century. Its most prominent feature is its competitive element, where the object is to either throw one's opponent to the ground and immobilize or otherwise subdue them with a grappling manoeuvre, or force an opponent to submit by joint locking the elbow or applying a choke. Kicks, punches, chops and thrusts are not allowed in judo competition or freestyle practice.

Kano Jigoro (1860-1938), the founder of the Japanese martial art of judo, was born to a sake brewing family in Mikage, Japan. After entering Tokyo Imperial University, he learned both Kito-ryu and Tenjin Shin'yo-ryu jujutsu, two styles focused on different aspects of traditional koryu fighting techniques. About 1882, Kano established the martial art school that would, by 1886, be known as the Kodokan dojo, which means "the place for the study or promotion of the Way".

Combat phases - Judo assumes that there are two main phases of combat: the standing (tachi-waza) and the ground (ne-waza) phase. Each phase requires its own mostly separate techniques, although some special training is devoted to "transitional" techniques to bridge the gap.

Sparring - Judo emphasizes a free-style sparring, called randori, as one of its main forms of training. A part of the combat time is spent sparring standing up, called tachi-waza, and the other part on the ground, called ne-waza. Sparring, even within safety rules, is considered to be much more effective than only practicing techniques. Judo's balance between both the standing and ground phases of combat gives judoka the ability to take down opponents who are standing up and then pin and submit them on the ground. This balanced theory of combat has made Judo a popular choice for many.

Kenshiro Abbe (1916-1985) was the famous Japanese martial artist who brought several martial arts to the UK including, in the mid 1950's the 'British Judo Council' (BJC).

Mondays from 6:45pm-8pm.
Child £2.75 per session.
Adults (8pm-8.45) £1.50 per session.

The Gym Kingswood Foundation Ltd,
Britannia Rd, Kingswood,
Bristol.

Fridays from 7pm-8:45pm.
Adults & child £2.75 per session.
Cadbury Heath Hall
Cadbury Heath
Bristol