As the mission of the Classical Judo Institute is to promote judo as it was originally created and practised up until about 1974 when the modern rule changes started to be instituted, we thought it appropriate to recall a few facts about judo and its creation as noted by the Kodokan website.

In essence: Kodokan Judo was founded by Kano Jigoro, who as a youth began practicing jujutsu (literally, pliant technique) as a way to strengthen his frail body. Kano studied both various styles of classical jujutsu, eventually mastering their deepest teachings, and supplemented this training with an avid interest in other combative forms as well.

Integrating what he considered the positive points of these with his own ideas and inspirations, he established a revised body of physical technique, and also transformed the traditional jujutsu principle of "defeating strength through flexibility" into a new principle of "maximum efficient use of physical and mental energy." The result was a new theoretical and technical system that Kano felt better matched the needs of modern people.

Seiryoku-zen’yō - maximum efficient use of energy, and Jita-kyōei - mutual prosperity for self and others, were authored by Prof. Kano. The essence of this system he expressed in the axiom "maximum efficient use of energy", a concept Prof. Kano considered these concepts to be a cornerstone of martial arts and a principle useful in many aspects of life.

The practical application of these principles, he felt, could contribute much to human and social development, and as the proper goal of training. What Kano had created transcended mere technique to embrace a set of principles for perfecting the self. To reflect this, he replaced "jutsu" (technique) in the word "ju-jutsu" with the suffix "do" (path) to create a new name for his art: judo. His training hall he named Kodokan, or "a place to teach the path."

The Kodokan was founded by Kano Jigoro Shihan in 1882.

The Classical Judo Institute was established to preserve and teach judo as it was originally conceived by its founder, Professor Jigoro Kano. We are dedicated to maintaining the traditional principles, techniques, and spirit of classical judo before the modern competition-focused changes that began in the mid-1970s.

Our dojo emphasizes the complete development of the individual through the practice of judo - not merely as a sport, but as a Way of life that cultivates physical fitness, mental discipline, and moral character. We believe that true judo training develops confidence, respect, and the ability to apply the principles of maximum efficiency and mutual benefit in all aspects of life.

As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are committed to making authentic judo instruction accessible to students of all backgrounds and ages. Our teaching methodology focuses on proper fundamental techniques, traditional training methods, and the development of both competitive and non-competitive aspects of judo.

Our Mission: To promote the study and practice of classical judo as a complete system of physical education, mental training, and character development, maintaining the high standards and traditional values established by the founder of judo.

Our Values: Respect, discipline, perseverance, and mutual benefit guide everything we do. We believe that judo training should develop not only physical skills but also mental fortitude and ethical character that serves students throughout their lives.

Federation Memberships: What You Need to Know

Joining a judo federation is optional unless you want to compete in tournaments or get officially promoted. In the U.S., there are three major judo federations:

• USA Judo
• USJF (United States Judo Federation)
• USJA (United States Judo Association)

Each has different benefits, but here’s the quick breakdown relevant to our dojo:

• USA Judo is the primary federation in the U.S. now, especially for tournaments. They do not recognize USJF or USJA memberships for their competitions. So, if you want to compete in major tournaments, you must get a USA Judo membership (≈ $100/year).
• USJF is important for (optional) Kodokan* belt promotions through Hudson Yudanshakai (our regional USJF promotion board serving NJ, NY, etc.). Our dojo historically awards promotions through Hudson Yudanshakai, so USJF membership (≈ $70/year) is highly recommended starting with the brown belt.

In summary: We recommend that, if you’re training seriously, it’s a good idea to get both USA Judo and USJF memberships to cover both tournaments and belt promotions.

*The Kodokan is the place of the origin of Judo.
**Hudson Yudanshakai is our regional USJF promotion board serving NJ, NY, and surroundings. Yudanshakai = society of black belts (in Japanese).

Tournaments: Levels and Meaning

Tournaments fall into two main categories:

Non-Pointed Events (Developmental)

• Great for beginners and intermediate competitors.
• Examples: Yonezuka Cup, Summer Slam, Princeton Judo Invitational.
• These still count for promotion points! But others might not.

Pointed Events

• These events award national ranking points (only for black belt divisions) needed for joining the US National Team.
• These are bigger, better organized, and offer great experience.
• Also count for promotion points in Hudson Yudanshakai.

Pointed Event Levels (our club has had competitors at all levels):

• A+ Level: e.g. Olympics, World, Masters, Grand Slams.
• A Level: Grand Prix, Pan American Championships.
• B Level: U.S. Nationals, U.S. Open, Pan American Games, etc.
• C, D, E Levels: Big regional events.

Popular D/E Level Events in Our Area:

• North American Championships
• Garden State Classic
• Battle in the Square
• Northeastern Championships
• Jimmy Pedro’s Challenge

📌 Note: These events may change designation each year, but they are consistently valuable.

Promotions: From Brown to Black Belt

You don’t need to worry much about promotions until you reach your third degree brown belt (Sankyu; it’s the first brown belt rank you receive). After that, promotions are based on:

• Time in Grade (TIG) – how long you’ve held your current belt.
• (Optional) Shiai Points – earned by competing in tournaments.
• (Optional) Contributions – refereeing, coaching, etc. (see Hudson All Rank Promotional Rank Requirements – Seniors booklet).

How Do I Get Promotion Points?

• Refer to the Shiai Points Table – your points depend on:
• Whether you win by ippon or waza-ari.
• Your opponent’s rank compared to yours.

How Much Time/Points Do I Need?

• Time in grade.
• Points from tournaments.
• Minimum age for dan (black belt and higher) ranks.

How to Apply for a Promotion

• Become a USJF member.
• Download and fill out the Promotion Form from the Hudson website.
• Have it signed by our coach.
• For Sankyu and higher:
• Email the form to the Hudson Yudanshakai Promotions Chair.
• Contact: Ms. Robin M. Rosenthal (RobinRosenthalJudo@gmail.com).

What About Black Belt (Shodan) and Beyond?

• A successful promotion exam, including kata and judo knowledge.
• Additional documentation (background check, concussion and interaction with minors trainings).

We’ll cover that in another guide!

Final Tips

• Compete early and often if you can – even if you don’t win, you’ll gain valuable experience.
• Track your points and time in grade from Sankyu onward.
• Stay active and involved in the judo community.