MCQ Detailed View

Judo was first introduced in the 1964 Summer Olympic Games held in Tokyo, Japan. The inclusion of Judo was significant because it marked the first time an Asian martial art was featured as an official Olympic sport. Tokyo 1964 was also the first Olympics ever hosted in Asia, and the Japanese organizers saw it as an opportunity to showcase their national martial art to the world.

Judo, meaning “the gentle way” in Japanese, was created by Jigoro Kano in 1882. It focuses on throws, holds, and submission techniques rather than striking. The sport emphasizes discipline, technique, and the efficient use of energy. By the mid-20th century, Judo had spread globally and gained recognition as both a competitive sport and a method of physical and mental training. During its Olympic debut in 1964, Judo competitions were held only for men and included four weight classes. Japan dominated the event, winning three out of the four gold medals. Interestingly, Judo was removed from the Olympic program in the 1968 Mexico City Games but returned permanently in 1972 at Munich. Women’s Judo was later introduced as a demonstration sport in the 1988 Seoul Olympics and became an official medal event in the 1992 Barcelona Games.

The Olympic Judo rules follow the standards of the International Judo Federation (IJF), ensuring fair play and global consistency. Matches are fought on a tatami mat, and the aim is to throw or immobilize the opponent or force them to submit using joint locks or chokeholds.

Today, Judo remains one of the most popular Olympic combat sports, attracting athletes from every continent. Its Olympic inclusion in 1964 not only elevated the sport’s global profile but also highlighted Japan’s cultural contribution to the Games.

Key Points:

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  Introduced in Olympics: 1964

  
  


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  First Hosted City: Tokyo, Japan

  
  


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  Founder: Jigoro Kano

  
  


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  Meaning of Judo: “Gentle way” in Japanese

  
  


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  Initial Categories: Four men’s weight classes

  
  


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  Women’s Judo in Olympics: Official since 1992

  
  


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  Governing Body: International Judo Federation (IJF)