Judo, karate, jiu-jitsu, BJJ, taekwondo: what is the difference?
Martial art or combat sport? Judo, karate or Brazilian jiu-jitsu? A simple guide to help you choose, by the Maskinongé judo club.
Tanit Club de Judo teaches judo. This guide helps you compare disciplines to make an informed choice.
What is judo?
Judo is a Japanese martial art created by Jigorō Kanō in 1882. It is practised through throws, pins, joint locks and chokes, with a strong emphasis on respect and self-control. It has been an Olympic sport since 1964 and is an excellent sport for kids and adults alike.
Judo or karate?
Karate, from Okinawa, is mostly based on punches and kicks from a distance. Judo is close-contact: grabbing, off-balancing, throwing and controlling. Both build discipline, but judo works more on falls, strength and balance.
Judo or Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ)?
Brazilian jiu-jitsu, also written jiu jitsu or jujitsu, comes from Japanese jiu-jitsu and judo. It focuses on ground fighting and submissions. Judo also includes ground work on top of standing throws: it is an excellent base for BJJ or jiu-jitsu.
Judo or taekwondo?
Taekwondo, of Korean origin, favours kicks and mobility. Judo is a grappling and control sport with very few strikes.
Judo, boxing, kickboxing or MMA?
Boxing and kickboxing are striking sports. MMA (mixed martial arts) combines striking and ground fighting. Judo is often used as a base in MMA for its throws and control.
Martial art or combat sport?
A martial art stresses values, discipline and personal growth; a combat sport stresses competition. Judo is both: a tradition of respect and an Olympic sport with competitions at every level.
Which sport for my child?
For a child, judo is a very complete choice: it builds coordination, confidence and respect, and teaches how to fall safely. It suits shy kids and energetic ones alike.
Frequently asked questions
Is judo a combat sport or a martial art?
Both. Judo is a traditional martial art and an Olympic combat sport.
Is judo good for self-defense?
Yes. It teaches you to manage and control an opponent and to fall without getting hurt.
Do I have to choose between judo and jiu-jitsu?
No. Judo is a very good base for jiu-jitsu and BJJ, since it works on throws and the ground.
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