Originally created in 1882, Judo was a modification of old school Jujutsu.  Judo's founder, Jigoro Kano wanted to create a martial art that could be used both as a competitive combat sport and yet have practical self defence benefits.

So what he did was to tone down the aggressive and deadly moves of jujutsu, add in a

couple of western wrestling moves and created a combart art that was both pacifist in nature yet so effective that armed forces around the world borrow its techniques in their self defence moves.

So why should one do Judo, you may ask? Some people, who tend to lean more to the aggressive striking side of martial arts, avoid judo because of its seemingly gentle philisophy.

There are heaps of reasons to take up this amazing art, actually. Firstly, Judo is widely available. That's quite a no brainer considering its an olympic sport and a systematic martial art that has well run branches all over the globe.

Next because judo being the 'gentle way' the emphasis is placed on combatitive contact without striking your partner's face or vital organs in the body during training. Judo advocates and teaches prevention of injury by practising techniques of failing safely, a.k.a breakfalls. Throws are executed under extremely strict supervision, and both sides are drilled vigorously in throws and breakfalls.

But what does Judo really do for you?

The main benefit of judo as a martial art is that a smaller person can defeat a much larger opponent simply by body mechanics, leverage and scientific principles. This is beneficial to people who are worried Judo may interfere in their religious beliefs, as well as smaller sized people who simply cannot depend on brute strength to win.

Secondly, you will need to learn how to not only move your body efficiently but how to toss your opponent's body, which develops good balance, concentration and agility. Your mental alertness also skyrockets because you need to constantly think about leverage, breaking of balance, how to wrestle a tricky opponent etc.

In a judo dojo or training center, there is strict emphasis on self discipline and self control. The last thing you need is a dangerous accident because two students were playing a fool. You will also need to implement your throwing techniques with restraint in order not to cause serious injuries.

Last but not least, Judo builds discipline, perserverance and character. You learn to respect seniors as well as your training partners, and

you are motivated to go up belt level by belt level until you eventually reach the goal of a black belt.

So there you have it. Remember though, that the ultimate aim of Judo as 'the gentle way'is to lead to a lifestyle of peace, fitness yet awareness should the time come to defend yourself, you'll be well prepared.