The 8 health benefits of judo

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Judo: a sport of values, as good for the body as for the mind

Of Japanese origin, judo is both a martial art and an unarmed combat sport. Very popular in Europe, particularly among young people, it has more than 500,000 licensees! And that’s a good thing, because judo has many health benefits. Dr Frank Deviere, Medical Manager for the development of health sports within the medical concussion of the French Judo Federation and neurologist at Angers University Hospital, talks to us about the benefits of this martial art.

Originating from traditional jujitsu, judo is a martial art created in Japan in 1882 as an educational method, which has since evolved into a combat sport and an Olympic sport. Very popular in Europe, particularly among young people, the French Judo Federation (FFJ) ranks 4th among the Olympic federations in terms of the number of licensees, and 2nd in terms of licensees under 12 years old.

Strong moral and cultural values

It was in 1882 that the Japanese Jigoro Kano laid down the fundamental principles of judo, associating the notion of flexibility with the mind, morality and physical techniques. In this modern martial art, judoka “seeks to elevate man to elevate humanity“. The name judo “path of flexibility” comes from this spiritual notion. The history of judo gives it a strong attachment to moral values, also taken up by the Judo Federation: friendship, sincerity, modesty, courage, honor , respect, politeness and self-control.

As good for the body as for the mind

Judo not only allows you to sculpt your body, work on your strength, cardio and endurance but also to work on your mental strength. Particularly suitable for people who are stressed, anxious or anxious, judo requires great concentration, strong control and an ability to manage their emotions. It undeniably allows you to be more serene on a daily basis. And like all combat sports, it is an outlet and therefore helps to release excess energy and emotions.

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