The Judo Way

This Judo program I developed many years ago is much different than most traditional Judo practice. Having trained in, competed in, championed and practiced Judo for many years at a young age, I was always intrigued by the far deeper aspects of this beautiful art form. Developed by Kano Jigoro Shihan in 1882, based on the ancient art of Jujutsu, there was always a much deeper, underlying psychological and spiritual center to this (and many other) martial arts. In fact, Judo more or less translates to “The Gentle Way.”

One might wonder where that “gentleness” is— with all the very physically demanding movements, throws, chokes, arm and leg bars and holds. These movements were no doubt useful at a time when locals and warriors needed to protect themselves, but the Judo practice was much deeper. The philosophical and psychological trainings happened often at home, or in the Dojo’s in private. The master teachers would teach it regularly, and in fact demanded a very sincere and obligated mind set before, during, and after training. A life long commitment to “the gentle way.” This is the training I would like to share.

I believe that all of the martial arts have a similar if not identical belief system, and that of honor, respect, dignity, character, wisdom, kindness, love, understanding and empathy all play a part of God’s (or Creator, etc…) meaning in all of our lives. This is what I call the Best Self. And that is what I am committed to a life time of striving for and to helping others attain.

Developing a beautiful body, mind and spirit through the deeper, foundational, and fundamental aspects of Judo training. This will include gentle physical exercises for all ages— based on the Way of Judo that will help build appropriate and durable strength, flexibility, and balanced energy. Special breathing techniques and movements to develop concentration, focus, and proper movement energy. Philosophical, spiritual and mental training of the ancient arts of Judo to help develop a strong spirit, mind, soul, and achieving beautiful well-being.  All of this is designed and developed to help attain the Best Self—how we were created, and how we are meant to live.

This program is also designed for all ages, with the idea that whether you are a young child, mid-aged, or in the elder of years, we can all develop all of the same “balanced” body, mind, and spirit. Flexibility, and what I call “appropriate” strength are meant to live a practical life, one filled with joy, adventure and very simple ways to use the physical body we were given. Lifting boxes, throwing occasional balls, doing house work, playing, hiking, etc… are all balanced examples of how to use the body.

Over training, building massive muscles, and developing egotistical “false” selves to please and impress others is not on this path— nor part of what I am teaching. If you seek violent Katas and physically impressive Judo in hopes to compete, or maybe use to hurt others—which I hope yo don’t, you should seek it elsewhere. There’s plenty out there. That is not what I am teaching. I DO however, base many of the training exercises and programs around all of the essential Judo movements and forms. But in a much slower, revised, and very gentle way to help develop a whole other aspect of this beautiful art.

My teachers, Mr. Mackey, Mr. McGloin, Mr. Kish, and Mr. Youngclaus, were inspirational, and foundational in my younger training— which led me to my championship not only of matches and of State, but also of training of the mind— the fundamentals of Judo that we were also trained. Many, many talks and teachings. I am eternally grateful for them, as well as my Dad who was there every step of the way, and my Mother for supporting it, driving me to and from, and supporting every spiritual aspect of my life. It continues long after and to this day. Martial art training has always been something I have been drawn to, and simply passionate about it. That’s what compels me to help others as well. I hope you join me, and allow me to help guide you to your Best Self!

Judo body:

• Bowing

• Stances

• Warmups

• Band work

• Energy and power

• Judo fit

• Street techniques

Judo Spirit:

• Judo philosophy

• Meditation

• Living the Judo Way

• Gentleness toward the Self

• Addressing challenges

• Attitude

• The Way

Diet

• Of the body

• Of the mind

• Of the spirit