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When modern
Judo is too often regarded nowadays as one of the
combative sports , it should be noted
that there is a certain degree of misperception in
such a vision. There are several other types of combat
styles much older than Judo, all them have something
common with it and each of them has gained an acknowledgement
as a character-building pastime. However, all of them
tend to restrict themselves to one or the other objective
(style) to the exclusion of the others, the fact that
establishes their dissimilation and sets limitations
in their application though for the exclusive purpose
of physical development of an individual.
What makes
Judo unique in its nature is the conceptual framework
and particular philosophy of personal
development , which underpins the acquisition
of technical skills of the game. The emphasis on the
“maximum efficiency” in the use of mind and body while
practicing the physical skills was that turning point
which elevated Judo well above the other combat styles
once it was envisaged by its founder Jigoro Kano.
SEIRYOKU
ZENYO , or principle of “maximum efficiency”
is the hallmark of a skilful Judo. However, on a bigger
scale, its value extends further than an application
of given sporting skills. It opens perspectives and
creates a pathway for an individual to become “efficient
and effective”, firstly, in physical or technical
terms, and secondly, in mental terms; thus preparing
an individual to overcome any obstacle during his
lifelong endeavours.
JITA
KYOKEY , or principle of “mutual benefit”
was another concept that revolutionised Judo and allowed
for its crystallisation into a ‘philosophy’ from an
ordinary combat style. As in the every oriental society
the role of an individual was diminished far beyond
the society itself. Kano re-considered the role and
values of an individual and highlighted the benefits,
which a society would gain as a result of personal
development of its individuals. This is the bigger
meaning of a JITA KYOKEY, however, in a narrow sense,
“mutual benefit” very well explains the importance
of partnership essential for studying Judo and a sportsmanship
behind the sports rivalry.
JUDO
MAKES PEOPLE and PEOPLE MAKE JUDO.
This is another translation
of SEIROYOKU ZENYO and JITA KYOKEY into a “western
language”.
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