Every October 28, the day of this discipline that has its origins in Jiu-jitsu is commemorated.
On October 28 of each year it is celebrated World Judo Daya day promoted by the International Judo Federation (IJF) to honor Kanō Jigorōthe Japanese master who was born on that date in 1860 and is known as the creator of this martial discipline that is practiced throughout the world today.
Kanō Jigorō was born in Kobe, in the Kansai region, and was responsible for developing a martial arts system based on Jiu-jitsu. According to the IJF, judo began as a self-defense technique, but over time it transformed into a comprehensive method of physical, intellectual and moral education. Currently, not only in Japan, but throughout the world, this discipline is recognized both for its effectiveness in self-defense and for its positive impact on character development.
A key milestone in the expansion of judo was its inclusion in los Olympics from Tokyo in 1964which allowed the discipline to gain popularity globally. Nowadays, More than 200 national federations and 5 continental unions are affiliated with the IJFpromoting judo in numerous countries around the world.
Fundamental values of this Japanese discipline
- Judo is not just a physical practice. Like many other oriental martial artsis deeply linked to everyday life and aims to work both the body, mind and spirit of the practitioner.
One of the central principles of judo is to improve the lives of those who practice it in a comprehensive way. To achieve this, This discipline is based on a moral code which must be followed by all judokas and which is promoted by the International Judo Federation.
Among the essential values of judo is the courage, necessary to face fear and overcome it in action. Respect is another key value, which begins with respect for yourself, your body and your mind. Modesty invites us to put pride aside, while sincerity encourages us to choose the truth in all situations. Honor, for its part, requires fidelity to one’s own words and actions.
Besides, Friendship is seen as “the purest and strongest of human feelings”occupying a central place in the moral code of judo. Self-control is also highlighted, which implies control over impulses, and courtesy, which reflects respect for others.
World Judo Day is a perfect occasion to pay tribute to those who practice this discipline and to reflect on how to incorporate these fundamental values that judo promotes into daily life.
The 10 keys to judo
- Courage: Face and overcome fear in action.
- I respect: It begins with oneself and extends to others.
- Modesty: Leave pride aside and act with humility.
- Sincerity: Choose the truth in all circumstances.
- Honor: Be faithful to one’s words and actions.
- Amistad: Value the purest and strongest of human feelings.
- Self-control: Master impulses and act with moderation.
- Courtesy: Show respect towards oneself and others.
- Discipline: Follow the moral code of judo with perseverance.
- personal improvement: Work comprehensively on body, mind and spirit.
