The Discovery of Judo. Yield to Overcome

The Discovery of Judo by my friend Ron Desormeaux, 5 th dan, which I have been privileged to preview, is unique amongst judo texts, in that it not only covers the principle concepts of judo practice, but delves into the history and development of judo from its formation in Japan, and as a worldwide entity, touching on expansion into Europe and with development in Canada, from the early 1900's to the present day. Along the way, Kodokan judo for most judoka has morphed from a martial art to an Olympic sport, and much of the philosophical and moral aspects relating to overall personal development have been neglected or lost over the years. The initial foundation of judo by Kano Jigoro Shihan stemmed from his exposure at a young age to other martial arts as practiced in the ancient bujutsu ryuha, primarily the Tenjin Shinyo Ryu and Kito Ryu schools of jujutsu. Present dojo that teach more than the physical aspects of judo training are few and far between, and it is refreshing to see an accurate source for further study. This is an in-depth read, but don't go looking for explanations of how to apply specific techniques. This is a book for judoka who are looking beyond the physical aspects of individual waza application; moreover it is about higher forms of judo study, with chapters covering history, technical aspects of application principles, a summary of the ten essential elements and application of butsukari, randori, competition and kata. Accurate information on these topics is hard to come by, and the judoka looking for more than a cursory explanation will find interesting vignettes to whet his appetite for more. The book concludes with Walking the Path from which I quote: ” I hope the previous pages provide the necessary information to grasp the essence of Judo. Secrets and mysteries disappear when the knowledge and understanding are at the forefront. Other mystical elements will be discarded through serious practice. With the guidance of a good sensei the judoka will embark on a long journey of discovery, …” I feel my own personal martial arts journey (musha shugyo) would have benefited by such a reference over the decades that the author and I have committed to The Journey. John A. Huntley, 7 th dan Judo