Vladimir Putin’s new judo video will provide a fresh kick to the sport.
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s judo kicks on video have brought into focus the sportsman in him, a dimension many of us did not, till yesterday, think necessary in a politician. But Putin’s remark at the presentation of the video Let’s Learn Judo with Vladimir Putin makes his sporting effort more a national affair.
“The level of developing of sports undoubtedly defines the level of development of the country itself,” Putin said. “Without sports, it’s impossible to speak of a healthy way of life, about the health of the nation as such.” His judo tutorial is sure now to bring more people to the martial art, hand in hand with his popularity among Russian voters.
For years, in Indian society, we have seen judo as means for self-defence. We send children to community judo classes to learn to ward off any impending danger they might face. But judo is also a great way to get into shape, especially as its grappling and throwing techniques can be suited to people of any shape or size. This makes it a sport to be keenly followed by people of any age, from young children to senior citizens. The free-form practice of judo easily moulds itself to the individual’s intellect and skill. You learn to control your temper, and take noticeable steps towards greater self-discipline.
Not to be confused with one that requires power or size, judo mainly thrives on skill. Among popular combat sports, it is also seen as an alternative educational system. It is ironic that in an such an intense combat style, judo breeds respect and consideration for the opponent.
Evolved from the ancient martial art of jujitsu, judo has since taken a gentler form which provides better aerobic training, flexibility of movement and clarity of mind.
In recent times, judo as a serious sport has brought home a host of shiny golds — take for example last month’s South Asian Judo Championship, held in Nepal. The Indian team won 11 golds and one silver during the four-day event. The Judo Federation of India (JFI) is now gearing up for some action in Bangkok in the Junior World Judo Championships later this month, relying largely on T H Kalpana Devi and her fellow teammates to bring home the glory.