Judo

Judo is not only about enhancing athletic ability; it also fosters personal growth. Engaging in judo instills crucial values including discipline, respect, strength, endurance, determination, punctuality, resilience, and self-esteem. These attributes are essential for achieving success and are valued in society. Individuals who win modestly and accept defeat with grace are highly regarded. This is why my 7-year-old granddaughter, Aria, has been studying judo with IJC Martial Arts for over two years. She enjoys it and eagerly anticipates each class. 

A significant aspect of Aria’s training is the focus on respecting others in the dojo. Through judo practice, her respect for others translates into increased self-confidence and discipline. Consequently, it is uncommon to observe her and the young IJC judo students misbehaving or showing disrespect to adults.

Judo is both a martial art and a contact sport, yet the training that children receive at IJC equips them for life’s challenges. Similar to Judo, we do not always achieve victory; that is, we do not always win. Observing Aria participate in free-style sparring (randori) and compete within the established guidelines demonstrates her understanding of persistence, problem-solving, and perseverance. Aria learns that winning is not the sole focus; rather, it is the effort she invests in her training and the courage required to compete that distinguish her from her peers. In essence, judo fosters character; it stems from the willingness to be thrown to the mat and then rise again to continue competing. This resolve and resilience should always be valued. The young IJC judokas are taught to endure in defeat and to learn from every result, whether victorious or not. 

Aria gains insights into responsibility, particularly the importance of taking ownership of her own successes and failures. She recognizes that performing well in promotional tests or competitions necessitates attending classes, heeding her instructors, mastering techniques, and applying them in randori. Insufficient effort in her training will be reflected in her outcomes. Aria finds joy in playful experiences and discovers that achieving success in games, earning belt promotions, or winning competitions is highly gratifying. Over time, she will come to understand that the medals hold less significance. The true value lies in the acceptance and respect she earns from her peers in the dojo. The acknowledgment and praise from her instructors, Senseis Saro, David, Vartan, Aren, and Edward, will carry greater weight and remain with her longer than any colored judo belt.

In conclusion, judo imparts important life lessons and cultivates robust character traits that aid children in navigating their formative years and transitioning into adulthood. These qualities may seem to extend beyond the training conducted in the dojo, but they align seamlessly with Sensei Jigoro Kano’s vision when he established Kodokan Judo in 1882. A fundamental principle in judo is mutual welfare and benefit highlighting the deeper purpose behind judo practice. One day, Aria will understand that we pursue personal growth to enhance our ability to support others. I anticipate observing that moment in the
future. Thank you IJC Martial Arts!