Judo | Ngā Tōtara Dojo

Judo

Judo is a modern martial art and combat sport created in Japan in 1882 by Jigoro Kano from his studies in classical ju jitsu (mostly Tenji-shinyo ryu and Kito ryu schools).

Judo teaches the principle of flexibility in the application of technique. This is the flexible or efficient use of balance, leverage, and movement in the performance of Judo throws and other skills. Skill, technique and timing, rather than the use of brute strength, are the essential ingredients for success in Judo. For example, in Judo classes you may learn how to give way, rather than use force, to overcome a stronger opponent.

Judo is mostly recognised for its competitive element (shiai), where the object is to either throw or takedown one’s opponent to the ground, immobilize or otherwise subdue one’s opponent with a grappling manoeuvre, or force an opponent to submit by joint locking or by executing a strangle hold or choke. However the study of formalised technique (kata) and the application of technique in free-practice (randori) are far more important to developing good Judo for application to shiai.

The founding principles of Judo; "Maximum Efficiency” (Seiryoku Zenyo), and "Mutual Welfare and Benefit" (Jita Kyoei) can also be used in our dealings with others in life. The ultimate goal in Judo is to develop oneself to the maximum extent possible, always striving for perfection, so that you can contribute something of value to the world.

Pewee Judo (4 years to 6 years)

Tuesdays & Thursdays 4.30pm to 5.00pm

Kids/Cadets class (7yrs to 13yrs)

Tuesday & Thursday 5.00pm to 6.00pm

Randori time - Cadets & interested Kids

Tuesday & Thursday 6.00pm to 6.20pm

Senior Judo Class 14 years and older.

Tuesday & Thursday 7.00pm to 8.30pm

Saturday 8.30am to 10.30am (kata class)

The Nga Totara Dojo is affiliated to Judo New Zealand, the body that regulates New Zealand Judo Clubs and organises regular competitions and training events. It is also a member of the Wellington Judo Association.