The History of Judo

Judo was founded in 1882 in Japan by a young scholar named Jigoro Kano (1860-1938). Kano wanted to develop a system of physical education suitable for the newly emerging Japanese public educational system. He derived judo from the ancient art of jiu-jitsu. The system he developed is based on two key principles: maximum efficiency and mutual welfare. It aimed to teach how to subdue without injuring the opponent. According to Kano, “Judo is a teaching for life itself and with it we learn to overcome the pitfalls and obstacles of everyday living”. The school where he taught his first students in Tokyo, called Kodokan, is regarded as the world centre of judo. Every year it attracts thousands of judokas of all ages and skill levels.

The first dojo (judo school or club) in Canada was opened in Vancouver in 1924. Judo Canada, the official national governing body for the sport, was incorporated in 1956. Today an estimated 30,000 Canadians participate in judo programs in approximately 400 clubs across Canada.