In English, Judo is translated as “the gentle way” – instead of meeting force with force, this refers to the principle of using one's opponent's strength against him and adapting well to changing circumstances.

For example, if the attacker pushes against his opponent, he would find his opponent stepping to the side and allowing (often with the aid of a foot to trip him up) his momentum to throw him forwards (the inverse being true for pulling).

Judo throws employ leverage rather than pure strength; a competitor can pull an opponent off-balance or get below the opponent’s center of gravity to toss him or her to the ground.
This sport, developed by Kano Jigoro in the mid 19th century, has many similarities to the ancient art of jujitsu. But unlike older martial arts, which have the sole purpose of combat fighting, judo offers a holistic approach to life that extends far beyond martial arts training.