Comparing Judo to Aikido

Judo History

Kano Sensei explains: "Judo is taught under two methods, one called randori, and the other kata. Randori, or free exercise, is practiced under conditions of actual contest. It includes throwing, choking, holding down, and bending or twisting the opponent's arms or legs. The players may use whatever tricks they like, provided they do not hurt each other, and obey the general rules of Judo etiquette. Kata, which literally means form, is a formal system of prearranged exercises, including, besides the aforementioned actions, hitting and kicking and the use of weapons, according to rules under which each player knows beforehand exactly what his opponent is going to do. The use of weapons and hitting and kicking is taught in kata and not in randori..."

While kata is not heavily emphasized, judo normally relies upon direct throws and submission grappling to subdue an opponent. Contact can be very close and physically demanding at the younger ages. He viewed his martial art as part of physical education, building moral character, and enhancing the quality of all aspects of human life.