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JUDO

During the spectacular opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, 204 countries participated and paraded around the impressive arena known affectionately by the Chinese as ‘The Birds Nest’. Did you know that of all the sports displayed, Judo had the highest sporting entry with 92 of the countries from around the world?

As a sport Judo is second only to Soccer in most countries yet in England little is known about it compared to its popularity and following in the continents of Africa, Asia and South America.

Judo is categorised as a martial art and is best known for its spectacular throwing techniques. To win a contest, the aim is to throw your opponent straight onto their backs; however, if your opponent lands on their side or bottom you are awarded smaller scores, and that’s where the fun really begins because, in judo, we also have groundwork techniques that are very similar to wrestling which are known as pins (control hold down techniques), such as arm locks and choking techniques, that can be used.

Judo is suitable for children and adults; men and women alike can learn basic self-defence or progress to championship combat levels by entering into National and International competitions; good grounding for Olympic entry! Judo is recognised by the Metropolitan Police and Military as a means of self-defence and hand-to-hand combat respectively, as a certain level of fitness, mental and physical agility is reached from belt grading and certification.

Heart Of Oak Judo Club offers not only exceptional coaching standards with coaches of international merit but the opportunity for children to embrace a sport that can lead to improved health and fitness whilst building confidence and self- esteem. The coaches of the Heart of Oak have either competed or coached at International Level and during the period of 1995-2002 were active members of the British Judo Squad – Trevor as Senior Coach and Mark and Marvin as competitive representatives of Team GB. Children will be learning first hand from experienced competitors.

For further information on joining Heart Of Oak Judo Club contact Margaret James on 020 8478 2339.

Introductory offer to St Lukes Church Hall venue for 11 - 16 yr olds try judo for a period of 6 weeks; first lesson free with the other 5 sessions charged at only £1 per session for classes started in March 2009.