As an Olympic sport, Judo is a form of grappling with similarities to wrestling. However, Judo's primary characteristic and appeal lies in its spectacular bare-handed throwing techniques. As a form of self-defense, it is characterized by many of the same techniques that are indicative to many styles of jujitsu. As a method of excercise to means of condition the body, there are few activitieswhich could be argued as being any better.

For some, Judo is like a religion with no deity, to the extent that it teaches moral and ethical values to those who practice it. Judo is also an art form such as gymnastics or dance. There is enjoyment in moving the body in graceful, meaningful patterns and in watching others perform them as well. There is an aesthetic beauty in the techniques of Judo.

The word "Judo" is usually translated as the "Gentle Way". Most Judoka already know that in can get pretty rough in randori and shiai (competition). Possibly another translation of "Judo" as the "Flexible Way" (Don Draeger) would be more meaningful. Althrough this may not be the strictest possibly translation of the word "Judo", a translator's main objective is to get the right idea or meaning across in a way the recipient readily understands. This is a major problem in converting "word pictures" from one language to another. Perhaps an even better translation would be the "Efficient Way". If you listen to better instructors of Judo and read what Dr. Kano has written about Judo, this word "effciency" keeps arising. it has been worded differently, but the maning is always the same. The ultimate objective of Judo is not to learn superiority over others, but rather to master the self. It is our duty to push ourselves on to perfection, find our weakneses, and overcome them.

According to Jigoro Kano, founder of Kodokan Judo, "Judo is the way to the most effective use of both physical and spiritual strength. By training you in attacks and defenses, it refines your body and your soul and helps you make the spiritual essence of Judo a part of your very being. In this way you are able to perfect yourself and contribute something of value to the world. This is the final goal of the Judo discipline." Anyone who intends to follow the way of Judo must above all instill this teaching in his heart.