Each October 28the entire planet celebrates World Judo Day. This day was created by the International Judo Federation (FIJ) in 2011 and aims to promote the fundamental values of judo. Respect, solidarity, inclusion, so many principles which are at the heart of this sport born in Japan. It is not just about celebrating a sporting discipline, but also about raising public awareness of the importance of these values in our daily lives.
But why this date and what are the highlights of this celebration?
World Judo Day: a tribute to Jigoro Kano
The World Judo Day was not chosen at random. It marks the birthday of Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo. By launching this initiative, the FIJ wanted to recall the educational foundations of sport. Jigoro Kano has always considered judo as a way to improve society, well beyond the tatami. Every year, a new theme is chosen to highlight a particular dimension of judo. In 2011, the first theme was respect, an essential value in this discipline, both in the relationship between master and student and between training partners.
In 2022, the theme was “judo for all”, highlighting the inclusive aspect of this sport. Activities organized through the monde helped promote this vision by bringing together judokas of all levels in common events, often open to the public.
“Jigoro Kano conceived judo as a means of developing both physical and moral strength. It is this dual approach that makes this sport unique. »
Marie Dupont, martial arts historian
Celebrations around the world
In many dojo around the world, special activities are organized to mark this day. Whether you are in FranceJapan or the United States, each country mobilizes its judokas to celebrate this martial art. The clubs offer demonstrationsof the friendly competitionsor even open workouts to the public. In France, several federal clubs open their doors to the general public to introduce this discipline, its grades and its values. This is the perfect opportunity for those who wish to discover judo or for practitioners to strengthen their connection with the community.
One of the highlights of this day is also the official message from the president of the International Judo FederationMarius Vizer. Every year, he reminds everyone of the importance of judo as a vector of social cohesion andinclusion. According to Vizer, the objective is to “strengthen the Olympic spirit and the humanist values which underpin our sport”. A vision shared by judokas around the world.
“On October 28, the tatami mats become a universal place of sharing. It is a day to celebrate not only judo, but also brotherhood. »
François Martel, judo coach
Social impact of judo: much more than a combat sport
Judo has always been much more than a simple combat sport. The values it conveys can have a profound social impact. This world day serves precisely to remind us that judo advocates mutual aid and mutual prosperity. In a society often marked by divisions, judo, with its values of respect and discipline, can play a major role in strengthening the social fabric.
Many clubs take advantage of this day to organize actions in favor ofsocial inclusionby integrating marginalized populations or by raising awareness of the benefits of sport among young people. This approach is part of a global vision where judo becomes a tool to transmit strong values, beyond the simple confrontation on a tatami.
“Judo is a fantastic vector of integration and education. It teaches us to respect others while learning to surpass ourselves. »
Sophie Gérard, sports sociologist
In addition to promoting the educational values of judo, the International Judo Federation plays a key role in supporting judokas. During the World Judo Daythe federation encourages each club and practitioner to engage in concrete actions to promote the values of judo. In 2023, for example, projects aimed at integrating young people in difficulty have emerged in several European countries.
The IFJ also partners with local organizations to offer free training programs and events open to all. These initiatives strengthen the cohesion within the global judo community.
“Judo shows us that it is possible to create a strong community around shared values. The IFJ embodies this vision with its global initiatives. »
Claude Richard, personal development coach
Summary table of the highlights of World Judo Day
| Year | Theme | Key values | Main activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Respect | Respect, discipline | Competitions, demonstrations |
| 2020 | Together we are stronger | Solidarity, inclusion | Public training, charity events |
| 2022 | Judo for all | Inclusion, equality | Dojo openings, discovery sessions |
| 2023 | Mutual aid and mutual prosperity | Collaboration, mutual respect | Sessions for all ages and levels |
Questions asked about World Judo Day
What is the origin of World Judo Day?
The World Judo Day was created in 2011 by the International Judo Federation to celebrate the birthday of the founder of judo, Jigoro Kano.
Why is this day important for judokas?
It helps to recall the values of judo, such as respect, solidarity and inclusion, and to promote these values through events around the world.
Look for a local club or dojo that hosts events open to the public on October 28. You can attend demonstrations, take part in discovery sessions or even try judo for the first time.
What is your experience with judo? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments!
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