Judo is a Japanese martial art that is similar to Aikido and Hapkido, because it is considered a more gentle form of martial arts. The main objective in Judo is to incapacitate the opponent, usually by throwing him or her to the ground or grappling them in some way. This adds to the competitive element in Judo, because almost always, one opponent will emerge from the fight victorious. Kicks and punches are not as prevalent as throws in Judo, however, there are set forms used to strike an opponent. These forms, however, are not allowed in Judo competitions or while practicing freestyle Judo. Due to the prevalence of throws and grappling techniques, Judo is considered one of the main forms of wrestling (there are four) used internationally by the International Federation of Associated Wrestling Styles.

There are two main combat “phases” in Judo – a ground phase and a standing phase. With each phase come entirely different techniques and strategies, so it is quite possible for a student of Judo to be extremely practiced in one phase and remain unskilled in another. The most accomplished students of Judo can utilize techniques from both the ground phase and the standing phase of Judo and these students will generally find a good blend or balance between the two. For this reason, Judo is fairly customizable to each student, depending on his or her interests in fighting.

There are two main combat “phases” in Judo – a ground phase and a standing phase. With each phase come entirely different techniques and strategies, so it is quite possible for a student of Judo to be extremely practiced in one phase and remain unskilled in another. The most accomplished students of Judo can utilize techniques from both the ground phase and the standing phase of Judo and these students will generally find a good blend or balance between the two. For this reason, Judo is fairly customizable to each student, depending on his or her interests in fighting.

Judo mainly utilizes throws to gain control of an opponent; therefore it has become a popular choice of self-defense for many people. Judo teaches techniques that will allow a student to put him or herself into a position of dominance, no matter the strength or size of the opponent. With an opponent in a position in which he or she cannot move very effectively against the student, the student has the freedom to control the outcome of the fight.