In 'Mind Over Muscle', Jigoro Kano reveals the profound philosophy behind judo, emphasizing the synergy between mental discipline and physical prowess. Kano challenges traditional beliefs about strength, advocating for the power of strategy, adaptability, and psychological insight. As he shares his groundbreaking training methods, readers are invited to rethink their approach to challenges, both on and off the mat. This book is not just a martial arts manual, but a compelling guide to mastering one's mindset. Discover how the true essence of skill lies not in brute force, but in the strength of the mind.
By Jigoro Kano
Published: 2013
"The true strength of a martial artist lies not in physical power, but in the mastery of the mind and spirit."
In 1882 Jigoro Kano (1860-1938) founded Kodokan Judo at Eishoji Temple in Tokyo. It was the culmination of a lifelong devotion to the jujutsu of the past, which he reorganized while taking great care to retain its classical traditions. Historically, martial arts were practiced only by the elite in Japan. Kano, a renowned educator as well as a sportsman, is credited with popularizing the martial arts, and in particular, judo, among people in all levels of society. When he was young, Kano studied jujutsu, a martial art practiced in Japan since feudal times, which involved throwing, hitting, kicking, stabbing, slashing, choking, bending and twisting limbs—and defenses against these attacks. After years of studying, he realized that although many different jujutsu techniques were taught, there was no one core value holding them together. Kano identified an all-pervasive principle—to make the most efficient use of mental and physical energy—and combined only those techniques in which this principle was correctly applied into modern judo. "Ju" means gentleness or giving way. "Do" means principle or the way. Judo, therefore is the Way of Gentleness, which implies that first giving way leads to ultimate victory. The Kodokan is literally, "the school for studying the Way." This book is a collection of Kano’s essential teachings, selected and compiled from his wealth of writings and lectures spanning a period of fifty-one years. Today the International Judo Federation has 187 member countries and regions. As an official sport of the Olympic Games, judo has inspired young people of all nationalities, and Kodokan is universally recognized as the Mecca of Judo.
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“The true strength of a martial artist lies not in physical power, but in the mastery of the mind and spirit.”
Mind Over Muscle
By Jigoro Kano
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Jigoro Kano (1860-1938) was a pioneering Japanese educator and judo master renowned for his influential contributions to martial arts and physical education. He is best known for founding the Kodokan Judo Institute and for developing the philosophy of Judo, which emphasizes mutual welfare and benefit, as well as the importance of education through physical training. Kano authored several notable works, including 'Mind Over Muscle' and 'Judo: The Ultimate Guide', where he articulated his techniques and principles. His writing style is characterized by clarity and practicality, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. Kano's legacy continues to inspire martial artists and educators around the world.
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