Judo, meaning “gentle way”, is a modern Japanese martial art and an Olympic sport, that was founded in Japan by Dr. Jigoro Kano in 1882. The main principle of Judo can be summarized in his tenet of “maximum efficiency and minimum effort”. Its most prominent feature is its competitive element, where the object is to either throw one’s opponent to the ground, immobilize or otherwise subdue one’s opponent with a grappling maneuver, or force an opponent to submit by joint locking the elbow or by applying a choke. Strikes and thrusts (by hands and feet) – as well as weapon defenses – are a part of judo, but only in pre-arranged forms (kata) and are not allowed in judo competition or free practice (randori). All levels of experience from beginners to competitors are welcome.
If you are a beginner and do not own a uniform, just wear some old sweats and long sleeves (suggested) or come in clean athletic wear (fine enough). Look here for the general regulations: http://web.mit.edu/judo/Rules.html
Contact: judo-officers@mit.edu
