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Kodokan

What is Kodokan?

Kodokan is the name of the institute founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882, where the modern martial art of Judo was developed. The term "Kodokan" can be translated as "the institute for studying the way," with "Ko" meaning "to teach," "Do" meaning "way or path," and "Kan" meaning "hall or building."

Kodokan Judo emphasizes various techniques, including throws (nage-waza), joint locks (kansetsu-waza), pins (osaekomi-waza), and strangles (shime-waza). Judo was created by Kano by adapting and refining techniques from traditional Jujutsu schools, with a focus on principles such as maximum efficiency (seiryoku zenyo) and mutual welfare and benefit (jita kyoei).

The Kodokan serves as the headquarters for Judo and plays a significant role in the development, promotion, and standardization of the sport worldwide. It is a central place for training, research, and the dissemination of Judo techniques and philosophy.

Related Article: Judo: The Gentle Way of Overcoming Opponents

Never hope for mistakes from your opponents. Assume they are perfectly prepared. Assume they make weight. Assume they never get tired. Assume all their reactions will be the correct ones. Expect that they will have their eyes open, ready to take advantage of any mistakes that you make.
Ronda "Rowdy" Rousey

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Other Glossary terms

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The cestus (plural: cesti) is an ancient form of hand protection used by boxers in ancient Greece and Rome.
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Chin Na
Chin Na, also spelled Qinna, is a Chinese martial art technique that focuses on seizing and controlling an opponent through joint locks, pressure point manipulation, and other grappling techniques.
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Ssireum
Ssireum is a traditional form of Korean wrestling that has been practiced for centuries.
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Biomechanics
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Ninjutsu
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