28 October 2024
In 2024, the theme of International Judo Day focuses on wellbeing—a core value that judo nurtures in ways both physical and mental. Judo doesn’t just teach us how to throw or grapple; it teaches us how to cultivate a balanced, healthy mind and body, creating a foundation for personal resilience and lifelong wellness.
Judo has an extraordinary way of bringing people together, fostering mental and emotional wellbeing through the connections we build. No matter where we are from, judo transcends borders, connecting us with people who share our dedication and respect for the sport. In the dojo and in competitions around the world, we find teammates, coaches, and friends who lift us up and inspire us. In this global family, differences in race, religion, or background fade, replaced by a shared commitment to grow and improve. This sense of belonging and mutual respect creates a deep-rooted emotional wellbeing, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey.
Judo is a full-body workout that enhances physical fitness, strength, and flexibility, contributing directly to our physical health. The dynamic movements and techniques improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle endurance, and coordination. However, the wellbeing that judo promotes goes well beyond the physical. Training sessions can be demanding, requiring a focus and mental resilience that strengthen our capacity to cope with stress and maintain a clear mind in the face of challenges. By constantly working toward improvement, we learn to manage anxiety, stay present, and build confidence—qualities essential to mental wellbeing both on and off the mat.
The values instilled through judo—discipline, respect, and perseverance—are pillars of a balanced life. Through judo, we build mental discipline that helps us regulate our emotions, manage setbacks, and develop resilience in the face of adversity. The focus on respect for our partners and ourselves nurtures a compassionate mindset, which is key to maintaining healthy relationships and a positive outlook. The lessons learned in judo foster self-awareness and emotional maturity, equipping us with life skills that support mental and emotional wellbeing long after we leave the dojo.
While judo may be an individual sport, the journey is a deeply communal one. Training alongside others, we learn that we are all part of a supportive network where everyone contributes to one another’s success and wellness. This community reinforces a sense of belonging and trust, helping to reduce loneliness and increase happiness. Training partners become confidants, coaches become mentors, and the dojo becomes a safe space where we can grow together. These bonds offer the kind of social support that has been shown to boost mental wellbeing and create a feeling of security and confidence in ourselves and in life.
Over the years, judo has provided countless opportunities to travel, learn from diverse perspectives, and pursue self-improvement. Traveling to compete or train offers a chance to broaden our horizons, build connections, and learn new approaches to the art. Each journey contributes to a greater sense of personal wellbeing by cultivating adaptability, curiosity, and an appreciation for cultural diversity. Judo’s path of excellence is not solely about mastering technique but also about building character and nurturing a sense of wellbeing that enriches every aspect of life.
On this International Judo Day 2024, we celebrate not only judo’s impact on our skills and friendships but also on our overall wellbeing. As we continue to embrace judo’s lessons, may we each experience the balance and joy it brings, both on and off the mat. To everyone across the world, Happy Judo Day! May it be filled with wellness, growth, and gratitude for the incredible journey we share.
18 May 2025
