The Judoka Body At War: Natural Ways to Boost Energy Level and Sustain It All Day Long

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Trying to juggle work, school, and family has taken its toll on everyone, and by the end of the day, most people are physically and emotionally zapped. Unfortunately, leading a hectic life has become a natural part of life, thus, many people cannot afford to be tired. Of course, boosting our energy level is easier said than done. Some people are naturally energetic. No matter the time of day or night, they have an energy high that justifies envying. Fortunately, there are ways to boost our energy levels, which does not involve overindulgence of Red Bull or Mountain Dew. Quite the contrary, our diets may actually contribute to low energy levels. Here are a few tips to help you fight fatigue and boost your energy.

Increase Iron Intake – Often times, low energy levels are the direct result of a low blood count, or insufficient iron intake. In most cases, low blood counts are easily detected through simple blood tests. Menstrual cycles also contribute to low iron. Persons who suffer from iron-deficiency anemia, and experience regular bouts of fatigue should begin taking iron supplements. Iron helps increase the number of red blood cells and oxygen that travels through the body, which in turn creates a boost of energy.

Avoid Sugary and Caffeinated Foods – It is a known fact that certain foods and drinks can cause the energy level to drop. Initially, sugary foods such as chocolate, and drinks high in caffeine such as coffee and sodas create a quick energy high. Unfortunately, this energy boost is temporary. Once the surge of energy wears, persons consuming large consumptions of these foods will experience a sudden drop in energy.


Sustaining Energy All Day Long

A balanced diet and a proper lifestyle are essential to keep the physical and emotional self energetic throughout the day. Here are tips to sustain energy levels naturally all day long.

• Have plenty of fiber-rich food like greens, salads, whole grain products, vegetables and fruits. They digest slowly and serve as a constant reservoir of energy for long durations. They are unlike caffeine and sugar-rich processed foods which give a quick high and drain you of energy rapidly.

• In some people, spreading the total food intake over multiple (4 to 6) small meals and snacks throughout the day helps to sustain energy longer.

• Dry fruits like raisin, figs and dates are natural energy boosters. So are nuts like almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews and pistachios. Have a handful of dry fruits and nuts for an afternoon snack to get a natural energy boost.

• Make sure your diet has enough proteins and a proper balance of fats and carbohydrates. Imbalances in diet lead to digestive problems which can make you sluggish and lethargic during the day. Excess carbohydrates can also cause a quick high followed by a quick depletion of energy levels.

• Avoid over-eating. A big load of food in the tummy drains a lot of energy for digestion leaving you listless and sleepy.

• Drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated and to help it flush out wastes from the system. With 3-4 liters of water every day, you will see remarkably higher energy levels in your body.

• Another natural way to sustain energy during the day is to have a good night's sleep. Sleep rejuvenates the body and relaxes the mind. Poor sleep patterns disturb both the physical and mental faculties.

• Tiredness in the body has a lot to do with disturbances and stresses in the mind. Long and deep breaths for 5-10 minutes periodically during the day will calm the mind and energize the body.

• Exposure to fresh air and sunlight at least for half an hour a day helps sustain energy naturally. While sunlight helps the body to make essential substances like Vitamin D naturally, outdoors and nature are also mentally rejuvenating.

The Judoka Body At War: Detox Cleansing Reactions Immediately Precede Better Health

http://www.boost-immune-system-naturally.com/

Detox is a must for boosting your immune system. Though you won’t consider it fun, it is the bridge you cross that takes you to a beautiful healthier new life.

Basically, it means cleaning out anything in your body the cells don’t need in order to function. And the cells are ‘clean freaks’, functioning very best when no toxins are present. Regular cleansing means the immune system has less work to do and fewer battles to fight leaving it in a stronger state to fight the important battles.

Lets look at some cleansing Symptoms, Cautions, Gentle Colon Cleansers and the two types of Detox discussed on this page:

‘Lifestyle Change Detox’ which comes automatically when we make healthy changes to our diet and supplements, and


‘Targeted Detox’ where you are deliberately cleansing targeted areas of the body such as a colon cleanse.

Detox Symptoms

Some cleansing reaction symptoms are nausea, diarrhea, constipation (especially in the case of heavy metals), headaches, rash, itching, fever, weakness, feeling tired, cold or flu-like symptoms, blurred vision, and many others depending on what type of toxins you have in your body.

Lifestyle Change Detox

A cleansing reaction comes naturally when we begin a new healthy lifestyle with a great natural diet and supplements.

Warning - Adding excellent food and supplements to your body may make you feel bad! Yes, it’s true, you usually - but not always - have bouts of feeling a little worse for a short while before you feel better when you add great nutrients to your cells.

It’s like remodeling your house. When you start tearing out the old junk, it looks much worse for a little while. Then step by step it starts looking better until one day it looks great! And that’s a lot like how your body rebuilds and renews when you improve your diet and add needed supplements to it.

Not everyone feels bad at first when they add excellent food and supplements. Some - especially those that are really sick - will just start feeling better right away. And sometimes the cleansing reaction comes later or intermittently.

So here’s what happens. Let’s use raw food as an example. Remember from ‘Immunity Boosters’ page that raw food has enzymes that remove the covering from bad bacteria, cancer cells and other foreign matter so the immune system can destroy and remove it. So when you add raw food to your diet, you will have a lot of garbage that is ready to exit the body. But as it exits, it must go back thru the blood, liver, colon, etc. to get out of the body. This is what makes you feel bad. It’s like you have to poison yourself all over again to get those toxins out. (Remember this at the point where you are about to put the toxins in! :).

Another example would be the supplement fruit drink noni that kills bad bacteria, viruses, fungus, etc. As those toxins exit you may have diarrhea for a short time. The diarrhea is actually good at this point (drink lots of water so you don’t dehydrate) because it is a steady stream of toxins making their way out.

Targeted Detox

Though our body was designed to cleanse automatically, it can’t keep up with the massive amounts of toxins that go into our bodies every day. Some of the many toxins that affect our health come from our water, medications, refined and junk food, sodas, alcohol, heavy metals, bacteria, fungus, parasites, bad fats and even supplements that are not used by the cells.

It is vital for a healthy immune system and to prevent disease, to regularly cleanse your body. There are many body systems that benefit from a targeted detox program including colon, liver, kidney and bladder, lung, lymphatic, blood and even skin.

It is very important to do a gentle colon cleanse before starting any other detox program or new supplements so the exiting debris can get out as quickly as possible. If the colon is backed up and sluggish the newly dislodged toxins that can’t get out will now cause extra problems in your system. So you will want to do a colon cleanse before any other body cleanse. And, YES, there are many benefits of a colon cleanse,probably helping overall health more than anything else you can do.

BEST Gentle Colon Cleansers

Noni is a very good colon and whole body cleanser that helps you detox from anything (even addictions) more comfortably. It can be taken in combination with your new diet and supplements to make the transition easier (even helps reduce cravings). And noni will make your other targeted cleanses easier.

Along with boosting the immune system, noni has many wonderful health benefits. When my mom started on the noni her bowel movements became like mud for a few days. After just 2-3 weeks on the noni she had a colon test that showed her polyps were gone that had been on a previous colon test she had taken. Noni is one of God’s special plants that has more than 2000 years of documented health giving properties.

Another gentle colon cleanser - also excellent for constipation - is magnesium and it has many great side benefits such as restful deep sleep (take one hour before bedtime), lowered blood pressure and calming stress relief.

Probiotics are another gentle colon cleanser - also excellent for constipation - and helps keep the right balance of friendly bacteria in the colon which is vital for great health and a strong immune system. The average American has 80% bad bacteria and 20% good bacteria. For excellent natural health you need to have 80% good bacteria and 20% bad bacteria. In order to maintain this balance you will need to supplement daily with a live culture probiotic supplement.

These gentle colon cleansers are usually enough when you’re also consuming a great diet with high-fiber plant food and very little junk food, but some people may need to progress to a stronger colon cleanse or colonics.

After a colon cleanse, the next best cleanse is a liver cleanse with milk thistle, dandelion or fresh raw juice which includes beets. Everything that goes in the body is filtered through the liver so it is very important to keep this organ clean and healthy. Too many toxins in the liver can damage it, cause decreased functioning, other health problems or even lead to death.

http://naturalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_detox

Eat plenty of fiber, brown rice and organically-grown fresh fruits and vegetables if they are available. If you cannot find organically grown produce locally, try growing your own fresh fruits and vegetables.

Take herbs for your health! Cleanse and protect the liver by using herbs such as dandelion root, burdock and milk thistle and switching to green tea.

You need your Vitamin C! This important vitamin helps the body produce glutathione, a liver compound that drives away toxins.

Drink plenty of water! You should drink at least eight glasses of water daily.

Relax and breathe! Taking deep breaths allows oxygen to circulate more completely through your system.

Bust stress! Do away with stress by emphasizing positive emotions as well as the positive in every situation.

Hydrotherapy is important! Try taking a very hot shower for five minutes, allowing the water to run on your back and visualizing the stress running off and washing down the drain with the water. Follow this with cold water for 30 seconds. Repeat this three times, then get into bed for 30 minutes and relax.

Sweat it out! Sweat in a sauna so your body can eliminate waste through perspiration.

Dry-brush your skin! This will help to remove toxins through your pores. You can locate special brushes at natural products or health food stores.

Exercise! Oh yes, you knew that word was in there somewhere. Be sure to exercise for one hour every day.

The Judoka Body At War; Health Benefits of Activity: We Go For JuDo!

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Regular exercise can help protect you from heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, noninsulin-dependent diabetes, obesity, back pain, osteoporosis, and can improve your mood and help you to better manage stress.

For the greatest overall health benefits, experts recommend that you do 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic activity three or more times a week and some type of muscle strengthening activity and stretching at least twice a week. However, if you are unable to do this level of activity, you can gain substantial health benefits by accumulating 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity a day, at least five times a week.

If you have been inactive for a while, you may want to start with less strenuous activities such as walking or swimming at a comfortable pace. Beginning at a slow pace will allow you to become physically fit without straining your body. Once you are in better shape, you can gradually do more strenuous activity.


How Physical Activity Impacts Health

Regular physical activity that is performed on most days of the week reduces the risk of developing or dying from some of the leading causes of illness and death in the United States.

• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely.
• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely from heart disease.
• Reduces the risk of developing diabetes.
• Reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure.
• Helps reduce blood pressure in people who already have high blood pressure.
• Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.
• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
• Helps control weight.
• Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
• Helps older adults become stronger and better able to move about without falling.
• Promotes psychological well-being.

Specific Health Benefits of Exercise

Heart Disease and Stroke. Daily physical activity can help prevent heart disease and stroke by strengthening your heart muscle, lowering your blood pressure, raising your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (good cholesterol) and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (bad cholesterol), improving blood flow, and increasing your heart's working capacity.

High Blood Pressure. Regular physical activity can reduce blood pressure in those with high blood pressure levels. Physical activity also reduces body fatness, which is associated with high blood pressure.

Noninsulin-Dependent Diabetes. By reducing body fatness, physical activity can help to prevent and control this type of diabetes.

Obesity. Physical activity helps to reduce body fat by building or preserving muscle mass and improving the body's ability to use calories. When physical activity is combined with proper nutrition, it can help control weight and prevent obesity, a major risk factor for many diseases.

Back Pain. By increasing muscle strength and endurance and improving flexibility and posture, regular exercise helps to prevent back pain.

Osteoporosis. Regular weight-bearing exercise promotes bone formation and may prevent many forms of bone loss associated with aging.

Psychological Effects. Regular physical activity can improve your mood and the way you feel about yourself. Researchers also have found that exercise is likely to reduce depression and anxiety and help you to better manage stress.

Millions suffer from illnesses that can be prevented or improved through regular physical activity.

The Judoka Body At War: Nutrients, Vitamins, Minerals and Dietary Information; What Judoka Should Know

Overview of nutrition, nutrient food sources and the function of nutrients in the body. http://www.nutristrategy.com/


CALORIES are needed to provide energy so the body functions properly. The number of calories in a food depends on the amount of energy the food provides. The number of calories a person needs depends on age, height, weight, gender, and activity level. People who consume more calories than they burn off in normal daily activity or during exercise are more likely to be overweight.

Fat: 1 gram = 9 calories
Protein: 1 gram = 4 calories
Carbohydrates:1 gram = 4 calories
Alcohol: 1 gram = 7 calories




FAT should account for 30% or less of the calories consumed daily, with saturated fats accounting for no more than 10% of the total fat intake. Fats are a concentrated form of energy which help maintain body temperature, and protect body tissues and organs. Fat also plays an essential role in carrying the four fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, and K.

Excess calories from protein and carbohydrates are converted to and stored as fat. Even if you are eating mostly "fat free" foods, excess consumption will result in additional body fat. Fat calories in food are readily stored, while it takes energy to transform protein and carbohydrates to body fat. The only proven way to reduce body fat is to burn more calories than one consumes.

Saturated Fat:

• tends to increase blood cholesterol levels. Most saturated fats tend to be solid at room temperature, with the exception of tropical oils.
• found mostly in meat and dairy products, as well as some vegetable oils, such as coconut and palm oils (tropical oils). Butter is high in saturated fat, while margarine tends to have more unsaturated fat.

Polyunsaturated Fat:

• tends to lower blood cholesterol levels
• found mostly in plant sources. (safflower, sunflower, soybean, corn, cottonseed)

Monounsaturated Fat:

• tends to lower LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol)
• found in both plant and animal products, such as olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and in some plant foods such as avocado


CHOLESTEROL intake should not exceed 300 milligrams a day. Individuals differ on their absorption of dietary cholesterol, what is important is one’s level of blood cholesterol. High blood cholesterol has been linked to the occurrence of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a buildup of fatty deposits in the coronary arteries and other blood vessels, and is a leading cause of heart attacks.

Dietary cholesterol is only found in foods from animal sources, including meat, fish, milk, eggs, cheese, and butter. You may have heard the terms HDL and LDL discussed in relation to blood cholesterol and heart disease. HDL and LDL are lipoproteins, substances found in the bloodstream, that transport cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.

• HDLs help remove cholesterol from the blood, protecting you from heart disease (atherosclerosis).
• LDLs are thought to deposit cholesterol in artery walls, increasing your risk of heart disease (atherosclerosis). Most abundant type, LDL carries approximately 65% of the total circulating cholesterol. High levels of LDL are associated with atherosclerosis.


CARBOHYDRATES are a major source of energy and should account for 50% to 60% of calories consumed each day.

Sugars:

• monosaccharides and disaccharides
• found in fruits (sucrose, glucose, fructose, pentose), milk (lactose), and soft drinks and sweets.

Complex Carbohydrates:

• polysaccharides
• found in whole grain cereals, flour, bread, rice, corn, oats, potatoes, and legumes.

DIETARY FIBER Sources of fiber from highest to lowest are highfiber grain products, nuts, legumes (kidney, navy, black and pinto beans), vegetables, fruits, and refined grain products.

Soluble Fiber:

• may help lower blood cholesterol by inhibiting digestion of fat and cholesterol; helps control blood sugar in people with diabetes.
• found in peas, beans, oats, barley, some fruits and vegetables (apples, oranges, carrots), and psyllium.

Insoluble Fiber:

• helps prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, and diverticulosis
• found in bran (wheat, oat, and rice), wheat germ, cauliflower, green beans, potatoes, celery


PROTEIN should account for 10% to 20% of the calories consumed each day. Protein is essential to the structure of red blood cells, for the proper functioning of antibodies resisting infection, for the regulation of enzymes and hormones, for growth, and for the repair of body tissue.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and are found in a variety of foods. Meat, milk, cheese, and egg are complete proteins that have all the essential amino acids. Other sources of protein include whole grains, rice, corn, beans, legumes, oatmeal, peas, and peanut butter. For those who do not eat meat, eggs, or dairy products, it is important to eat a variety of these other foods in order to get enough protein.

SODIUM intake is recommended to be less than 3,000 milligrams daily. One teaspoon of table salt contains about 2,000 milligrams of sodium. The difference between "sodium" and "salt" can be confusing. Sodium is a mineral found in various foods including table salt (sodium chloride). Table salt is 40% sodium.

People with high blood pressure (hypertension) may be instructed by their doctor or dietitian to reduce sodium intake. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. The body needs a small amount of sodium to help maintain normal blood pressure and normal function of muscles and nerves. High sodium intake can contribute to water retention.

Sodium is found in table salt, baking soda, monosodium glutamate (MSG), various seasonings, additives, condiments, meat, fish, poultry, dairy foods, eggs, smoked meats, olives, and pickled foods.

POTASSIUM is essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve impulse function, muscle function, cardiac (heart muscle) function

Sources: bananas, raisins, apricots, oranges, avacadoes, dates, cantaloupe, watermelon, prunes, broccoli, spinach, carrots, potato, sweet potato, winter squash, mushrooms, peas, lentils, dried beans, peanuts, milk, yogurt, lean meats


VITAMINS AND MINERALS are required for the regulation of the body's metabolic functions, and are found naturally in the foods we eat. Many foods are fortified in order to provide additional nutrients, or to replace nutrients that may have been lost during the processing of the food. Most people are able to obtain satisfactory nutrition from the wide selection of foods available in the United States.

If a person is not able to eat a variety of foods from the basic food groups, then a vitamin and mineral supplement may be necessary. However, except for certain unusual health conditions, very few persons should need more than 100% of the Recommended Daily Allowance for any single nutrient. Large doses of vitamin and mineral supplements can be harmful.

Vitamins come in two varieties: fat soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored in the body for long periods of time, while excess amounts of water-soluble vitamins are excreted in the urine.


Vitamin A

• needed for new cell growth, healthy skin, hair, and tissues, and vision in dim light
• sources: dark green and yellow vegetables and yellow fruits, such as broccoli spinach, turnip greens, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cantaloupe, and apricots, and in animal sources such as liver, milk, butter, cheese, and whole eggs.

Vitamin D

• promotes absorption and use of calcium and phosphate for healthy bones and teeth
• sources: milk (fortified), cheese, whole eggs, liver, salmon, and fortified margarine. The skin can synthesize vitamin D if exposed to enough sunlight on a regular basis.

Vitamin E

• protects red blood cells and helps prevent destruction of vitamin A and C
• sources: margarine and vegetable oil (soybean, corn, safflower, and cottonseed), wheat germ, green leafy vegetables.

Vitamin K

• necessary for normal blood clotting and synthesis of proteins found in plasma, bone, and kidneys.
• sources: spinach, lettuce, kale, cabbage, cauliflower, wheat bran, organ meats, cereals, some fruits, meats, dairy products, eggs.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)

• an antioxidant vitamin needed for the formation of collagen to hold the cells together and for healthy teeth, gums and blood vessels; improves iron absorption and resistance to infection.
• sources: many fresh vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, green and red peppers, collard greens, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, lemon, cabbage, pineapples, strawberries, citrus fruits

Thiamin (B1)

• needed for energy metabolism and the proper function of the nervous system
• sources: whole grains, soybeans, peas, liver, kidney, lean cuts of pork, legumes, seeds, and nuts.

Riboflavin (B2)

• needed for energy metabolism, building tissue, and helps maintain good vision.
• sources: dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, grains, broccoli, turnip greens, asparagus, spinach, and enriched food products.

Niacin

• needed for energy metabolism, proper digestion, and healthy nervous system
• sources: lean meats, liver, poultry, milk, canned salmon, leafy green vegetables

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

• needed for cell growth
• sources: chicken, fish, pork, liver, kidney, whole grains, nuts, and legumes

Folate (Folic Acid)

• promotes normal digestion; essential for development of red blood cells
• sources: liver, yeast, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, and some fruits

Vitamin B12

• needed for building proteins in the body, red blood cells, and normal function of nervous tissue
• sources: liver, kidney, yogurt, dairy products, fish, clams, oysters, nonfat dry milk, salmon, sardines

Calcium

• needed for healthy bones and teeth, normal blood clotting, and nervous system functioning
• sources: dairy products, broccoli, cabbage, kale, tofu, sardines and salmon

Iron

• needed for the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to the body cells
• sources: meats, eggs, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grains and enriched food products

Phosphorus

• needed for healthy bones and teeth, energy metabolism, and acidbase balance in the body
• sources: milk, grains, lean meats, food additives

Magnesium

• needed for healthy bones and teeth, proper nervous system functioning, and energy metabolism
• sources: dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, green vegetables, legumes

Zinc

• needed for cell reproduction, tissue growth and repair
• sources: meat, seafood, and liver, eggs, milk, whole-grain products
Pantothenic Acid • needed for energy metabolism
• sources: egg yolk, liver, kidney, yeast, broccoli, lean beef, skim milk, sweet potatoes, molasses

Copper

• needed for synthesis of hemoglobin, proper iron metabolism, and maintenance of blood vessels
• sources: seafood, nuts, legumes, green leafy vegetables
Manganese • needed for enzyme structure
• sources: whole grain products, fruits and vegetables, tea

Zen Quotes Koans & Wise Sayings

The Moment of Koan in JuDo

This is one of the most complicated of the Ways, and perhaps the nearest to life. it is a general training of the whole body and not concentration on a special aim with special instruments. But because of the complexity of the technique, many students become wholly absorbed in technical achievement, losing the one principle (ri) in study of individual tricks (ji).

In Judo there is no complete rest at all; always the balance has to be actively preserved under the push and pull of the opponent. The student is expected to find truth of the Taoist saying: "The stillness in stillness is not the real stillness; only when there is stillness in movement does the universal rhythm manifest."

The Koan: If you anticipate one alternative, but he takes the other, the throw is blocked. if you wait to see what he does, you hesitate and spoil the throwing action. If you make your mind a blank, your body will not move.

How to solve the problem?




The winning throw from an important contest is a wonderful feat of technique. The strong resisting opponent, himself an expert, is carried high in to the air by the tori, the combined weight being balanced on the toe-tips of the foot. Apart from technical difficulties, begginners for a long time hesitate to throw the body into the attack, taking the head right down. The have to screw themselves up to it and so lose the oppurtunity, which is very short. The Zen sayings are: "Enter at one stroke" and "Throw away the body to find the spirit"

The Strategy of Gentleness and Sincerity

Skilled warriors of old were subtle
Mysteriously powerful
So deep they were unknowable

              Tao Te Ching



Be extremely subtle
Even to the point of formlessness
Be extremely mysterious
Even to the point of soundlessness
Thereby you can be the director
Of an opponent's fate

              The Art of War



Change and movement have their times; safety and danger
are in oneself. Calamity and fortune, gain and loss, start
from oneself. Therefore those who master change are'
those who address themselves to the time. For those who
address themselves to the times even danger is safe;
for those who master change, even disturbance is orderly.

              The Book of Balance and Harmony



Do not harbor sinister designs;
Diligently pursue the path of two swords as one;
Cultivate a wide range of interest in the arts;
Be knowledgeable in a variety of occupations;
Be discreet regarding one's commercial dealings;
Nurture the ability to perceive the truth in all matters;
Perceive that which cannot be seen with the eye;
Do not be negligent, even in trifling matters;
Do not engage in useless activity.

              Miyamoto Musashi, The Book of Five Rings

The Way of Seiryoku Zenyo-Jita Kyoei (Worthy Use of Human Efforts. Mutual Benefit) and Its Instruction By Shinichi Oimatsu (Kodokan)

The Bulletin for the Scientific Study of Kodokan Judo
Volume VI, 1984

I. Preface

Jigoro Kano (1860-1936) studied the representative forms of Jujitsu known as Tenjin shinyo-ryu and Kito-ryu, and was eventually able to comprehend the heart of their mysterious natures. He felt that these forms of Jujitsu had something of value for the contemporary education of young people. He also achieved the three purposes of physical education, self-defense, and moral training for young people at the same time as improving upon the fundamentals of Jujitsu. Jigoro Kano went on to establish Kodokan Judo based on mastery of the fundamental truths of the "Way", the basis of human and social life. In the 15th year of Meiji (1882) Professor Kano named the place of such teaching as Kodokan.

Jigoro Kano continued to pursue the Way of Kodokan Judo even more and in the 4th year of Taisho (1915) he proclaimed "Judo is the most effective way to develop the strength of the mind and body" as the fundamental meaning and declared his guideline of Seiryoku Zenyo-Jita Kyoei (Worthy Use of Human Efforts. Mutual Prosperity) based on this concept.

II. Judo is the Way of Seiryoku Zenyo-Jita Kyoei

(1) The Concept of Kodokan Judo at the Time of Its Founding

Professor Kano stated this fundamental attitude in an address seven years after the founding of Kodokan: "Judo is a valuable asset. The more one strives to improve, the more Judo will collectively become an educational method of physical growth, mental growth, and moral growth at the same time. The reason for this is that as a consequence of much study of the former forms of Jujitsu the necessary elements were kept, needless elements were discarded, and the most suitable thing for today's society was formed." Moreover, Kodokan Judo "achieves the three purposes of physical growth, challenge, and moral training simultaneously." For the following reasons the term "Judo" was chosen instead of the more general term of "Jujitsu": (i) Jujitsu was dangerous as including the arts of strangle-hold and joint-twisting, (ii) Jujitsu lost its value as an art since it was being taught by unqualified people, and (iii) Jujitsu came to be thought of as something vulgar because of charging admission fees and entertaining people by showing Jujitsu. For these and other reasons as well the name "Judo" was given.

Professor Kano synthesized the three purposes of Judo and what he regarded highly was "the realization of the Way of managing human and social life." This was especially deeply related to moral law." That is to say, 1) cultivation of morals, 2) refinement of mental development, and 3) application of the doctrine of the challenging spirit of Judo to everyday life. Regarding the third point in particular, what is taught at the dojo (training hall) and what is learned about Judo are not where Judo training stops but where it starts. All that is taught and learned should be made a part of one's
own life as well as a part of society.

(2) Seiryoku Zenyo: Theory of Application

The principles of technique of Kodokan Judo are "kuzushi (unbalancing the opponent), tsukuri (movement and positions to prepare to throw the opponent), and kake (throwing)". These are explained as the principles of Seiryoku Zenyo today; however, in the early period of Judo the principles were explained mainly by such terms as "Gentleness turns away the sturdy", "the unity of gentleness and strength", and other phrases. What provided the pioneering role of "Judo", namely "Seiryoku Zenyo" were Professor Kano's ideas which were set forth in the 43rd year of Meiji (1910). This is also substantiated by the collection of Shuichi Nagaoka (10th dan) of what was already being taught to Professor Kano's disciples in the 30th year of Meiji (1897).

What is the Application of Seiryoku Zenyo:

1. To Be a Person of Value
   
   As a human being, one must set his/her goal in life and discipline his/her naturally endowed abilities. Moreover, since people "are not something that can exist apart from society" and since the fortune of today is a result of the past, everyone should develop his/her given abilities. If one contributes to society, the personality traits-even if there is a difference in achievements-can develop.



2. Determination-Judgement-Effort
   
   
   To become a person of value one should make it a purpose to believe in one's best, one should judge the steps to achieve this purpose, and once this has been done one should gather all his/her strength and work hard.



3. Seiryoku Zenyo--Application
   
   The momentum of determination, judgment, and effort comes from one's own strength. All the phenomena of the universe function on strength. In comparison of similar living beings those with much seiryoku will have a more magnificent life.

Therefore, everyone must strive to nurture seiryoku. To achieve this one must be moderate in eating and drinking, exercising, sleeping, etc. However, on the other hand, training in the spiritual aspects of life must not be neglected. It is also important how this Seiryoku is utilized. This utilization is important not only for one's own problems, but also for society and the nation.

(3) Judo is the Best Application of Seiryoku

Research and study in Professor Kano's Judo principles and techniques continued and the following was written in "Kodokan Judo Gaisetsu" (Outline of Kodokan Judo) in JUDO, No. 2 published by Kodokan from the 4th year of Taisho (1915):

"Judo is the most effective use of the body and spirit. Judo training is to practice attack and defense to strengthen one's own body and spirit, and is the realization of the essence of Judo. From this, one is perfected and becomes a person to benefit society. This is the ideal purpose of Judo training."

(4) The Way of Seiryoku Zenyo Jita Kyoei

Professor Kano stated in the kunwa (discourse on teachings) of the kagamibiraki ceremony, (the first day of Judo practice) at Kodokan in January of the 11th year of Showa (1936): "The fundamental meaning of Judo is the most practical application of seiryoku. With virtue as the purpose, it is the most effective application of seiryoku. Virtue aids in the continued development of group life and anything that hampers this is bad. In this meaning loyalty and faith are virtues. The continued development of group life and social life is attained by sojo sojo (mutual help and mutual compromise) and jita kyoei. Therefore, this is also a virtue and is the fundamental meaning of Judo".

The meaning of Seiryoku Zenyo was clarified even more. According to Kodokan Judo research, the Kodokan Bunkakai (Kodokan Culture Association) was established [in 1922] with the purpose of serving society through practice of the principles of Seiryoku Zenyo, the nature of which is found in the following pledge:

PLEDGE

This association idealizes the achievement of all man's purposes in accordance with the best application of seiryoku. Based on this doctrine, this association:

1. is determined to develop each and every body into robust health, to refine one's knowledge, and morals, and to become an effective part of society;



2. with regards to the nation, will respect national unity, esteem history, and be diligent at improving what is necessary for the prosperity of the nation;



3. with regards to society, will effect thorough harmony through mutual help and mutual compromise with individuals and with groups;


4. with regards to the world in general, will remove itself from racial prejudice and strive just as equally to elevate culture, and seek the prosperity of mankind.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

1. the best application of seiroku-zenyo lies in one's self-realization,


2. one's self-realization is attained through the help of others' self-realization,


3. self-realization is the basis of human prosperity.

(5) Judo and Dojo Training

In the Kunwa of the 11th year of Showa, Professor Kano stated the following regarding the relationship of kata (form) and randori (free practice) in a dojo to Judo: "Just as there are many ways to climb Mt. Fuji, there are just as many ways to understand Judo principles. As for me, I started from the randori training of old Jujitsu. The same way is also applicable to Judo. However, this is not an explicit explanation of Judo. Study is never ending and the definition evolves that Judo is the most effective way of using mental and physical strength". The "ju" of Judo is the way of gentleness and is in contrast to "strength". Even in the Chinese classics such phrases as "gentleness turns away strength" can be found. The "do" of Judo is not the sense of the word "way" that means a street, but the sense of the word that is a path commonly referred to in spiritual matters of man. It signifies the path which should be followed in personal and social relationships. The method of "ju" that Professor Kano got from kata and randori as a method that pervades human and social life is what became "Judo".

Therefore, it is easier to learn by actually experiencing through the body from the first step of kata and randori, and this should also be made an active principle in life.

III. Items to Be Seriously Considered in Instruction as a Way of Education

How is Judo taught in the dojo?

(1) Jita Kyoei and Rei (Etiquette) Instruction

As long as people are alive, human relations is an important matter. If respect and affection towards others are lost, then we are just like animals. Hence, "bowing" etiquette is important. Just as the character indicates, the left half symbolizes the "gods" and the right half symbolizes "a religious offering". In an agricultural society an offering was made to the gods at the end of the harvest as appreciation and to pray for further divine protection. This conventional practice is rei and is the present-day aspect of respect for mankind and conforms to equality in the Constitution.

Rei is classified as that towards individuals of higher rank, towards those of lower rank, and towards those of equal rank. However, what should be seriously considered today is the rei towards those the eye cannot see; that is to say, the public spirit. It is important that this last form of rei be taught in the dojo over a long period of time. This rei is also exemplified in the term omoiyari (thoughtfulness) of Confucious. Sympathizing with others are not causing them trouble-this is the true spirit of rei. And this also constitutes the basis of the spirit of Jita Kyoei.

(2) The techniques of tai-sabaki (preparing oneself to meet an opponent), kuzushi, tsutkuri, and kake embody the fundamental principles through one's efforts in practice and a rational and scientific nature become part of oneself.

There exists a realization of technique as one of the main points of instruction in a dojo. This evolves from kuzushi, tsukuri, kake, as well as tai-sabaki which leads to the skill of tsukuri. Kuzushi is making the opponent's body unbalanced through rendering him vulnerable to the attack. Tsukuri is making the opponent's body unbalanced (kuzushi=preparing the opponent), and holding your own position and stance ready to attack (preparing oneself). Kake is to pass into the overcoming and deciding movement at the instant of preparing the opponent and preparing oneself. All of the technical principles should be utilized to their utmost.

As for instruction, one must first grasp the importance of the technique of how to overcome and throw one's opponent, and after understanding the theory of the attainment of that technique as technique, one should practice that technique again and again properly as the theory prescribes. You will be aiming at the limit of your power and skill if this is done more correctly, faster, and with more strength. In this manner understanding the principles of technique and repeated practice in order to move as such principles prescribe are the fundamental attitudes of acquiring skill. Since the body will not move as prescribed from the start, notice what movement is not in accord with the principles and practice hundreds of times everyday while adjusting at the same time. It is also important to devise the tai-sabaki movement which produces smoothness in tsukuri and kake. Since the opponent at the same time has also done much to prepare, and while you adapt to these changes one must further the ability to maintain command of movement. Mind, technique, and body are refined by following this form of practice and there is value in this alone; however, the aim is not only the advancement and development of technical skill, but also-through instruction in such technique is more important to instruct this nurturing of the attitude of movement based on theory. No matter how it is studied to compensate or to cope perfectly with this, it is of prime importance to be proper in the theory in all aspects of everyday life.

(3) Attitude of Study and Creativeness

When one understands the principles of technique and tries to embody them just as they are as one's own technique, the degree of training progresses. And when the time comes to test one's technique against various opponents one becomes aware of the opponent's physique, physical strength, muscular strength, the way of grappling, favorite technique, personality, etc. that are unique to each individual. This is done in accordance with the rules, yet the method of attack and defense should be thought of as well as how to perform the most suitable technique in relation to each other. This does not mean using technique haphazardly, but whether it is one step forward or one step backward, that one step must be patterned after the one step that aims at the proper technique for the right kind of attack. And at the same time one must have the mentality and attitude that can change quickly to meet any attack from whatever direction, at whatever instant, and with whatever technique from an opponent. At this stage a comparative study is made of the elements of oneself and others of the relation of attack and defense from the standpoint of technique, of the way to win, of accumulating practice in the right manner, and of pursuing the right direction.

In this case, one must think and study oneself, but one should also consult the seniors and teachers who have already had more experience, read specialized works, and it is important to know the countermeasures of one's predecessors. Kodokan Judo techniques have gradually developed to a great number. There is a special technique of Professor Kano called ukigoshi (floating hip throw) and the story how haraigoshi (sweeping loin throw) resulted from the countermeasure against Shiro Saigo, He also painstakingly conceived tsurikomi-goshi (lifting hip throw) when haraigoshi was thwarted. He studied and developed katame-waza (holding techniques) just as his old high school opponent the large Yoshiaki Yamashita (10th dan) did, and the fine ukigoshi of 10th dan holders Shuichi Nagaoka and Hajime Isogai. Both katame-waza and nage-waza (throwing techniques) have been studied and widely developed. The objective is a challenge (match) in accordance with the rules and what results is the accumulation of serious training, and the study and development of technique. Today such subtle techniques have become quite diversified.

This attitude of study and creativeness-as well as being important in the
study and creation of technique-is important in all aspects of human life and
society. The importance of study and creativeness related to a match and technique are taught in the dojo while learning judo, but more than this, it is made to be sufficiently understood that this attitude takes on even more importance throughout the rest of one's life. Without it both personal development and public service would not exist. Without this attitude nothing can be expected of individual advancement and the development of society. Jigoro Kano referred to this attitude in the 22nd year of Meiji (1889) in "Judo and of its educational value". He stated that this attitude "is applicable not only to the purpose of a match, but also in any case of commerce, politics and education it undoubtedly serves a purpose".

This is truly something to which serious consideration should be given.

In order to raise judoists in this manner, nurturing the attitude of study and resourcefulness in dojo Judo training is of first importance. At the same time this does not stop only within the dojo, but forms an association. More than being born merely as a individual, think of one's personal role in helping society as much as possible. For the advancement and development of society, study continuously and foster the attitude that endeavors to create. This is something that should be thought of during the instruction of practice sessions.

(4) Positive Attitude (Courage)

Generally speaking, in order to stand more advantageously than your opponent in a match or in practice you must have overall strength of superior physical fitness, technical skill, and vigorous spirit. This being the case, it is something that depends on continuous effort in practice from whence it results. And in this manner vigorous spirit and courage are able to be inspired.

There have been many cases in which both physical strength and technical skill have been exemplified to a degree higher than normal. Since Judo is a form of personal contact the attributes of spirit, technical skill, and physical strength of the opponent can be directly felt. Without a superior spirit you will be overwhelmed by your opponent. As a result, there will be an inability to demonstrate the necessary technical skill or physical strength.

There are extremely numerous opportunities in Judo practice and matches to heighten a vigorous spirit that uses all one's strength in order not to lose to an opponent. It is through practice and matches that instruction is given to elevate a vigorous spirit and courage. An effort is made to make courage understood as "collectively or spiritually for the purpose of accomplishing a worthwhile goal, unrealistic strength with firmness and positiveness". In order to make this true courage a part of oneself it must be self-realized and instruction should make one strive harder. In other words, uphold truth and reason to the bitter end and nurture the attitude to stand up boldly to that which opposes truth and reason.

(5) Proper Sitting & Proper Posture-Proper Mind

The fundamental posture of Judo is the natural posture of the body; that is to say, the natural standing posture that can counter instantly when either you begin to move or receive the technique of your opponent. In Judo the natural posture of standing is fundamental (or a defensive posture but this is a temporary one). However, the proper sitting posture has also been common due to the nature of the practice dojo having tatami (straw mats) over the years. Proper sitting is maintaining the proper sitting posture, breathing from the stomach quietly, and while this continues deeply and repeatedly worldly thoughts and. wicked desires are eliminated when the mind becomes calm. Then mushin (no-mind) and seishin (proper-mind) are approached. The advantageous mental state of natural posture, immobile posture and true self are easy to enter. This is due to the state of blood circulation being forced throughout all internal organs. As a result all such movements are increased and there is also a result of a stable, active effect spiritually. Thinking of one's own daily posture, approximately 2/3 of the time is spent awake and approximately 1/3 is spent asleep. Even if proper posture is maintained during the time of physical education and Judo but most of the other time the posture is not good, there is an unrecognized bad influence on the growth, development, and health of the body and spirit. Through natural posture and proper sitting the importance of posture and breathing is realized.

(6) If There is Effort, There's Always Accomplishment

Professor Kano stated that as a human being, one must set one's goal to be a person of value. There are different kinds of people but of the utmost importance is risshi, setting a purpose. Next is takudo, selecting the way to accomplish this purpose. Professor Kano continued, "Risslii and takudo, from these two things, once what should be done is decided, follows ketsuryoku (effort). We must strive until there is fulfillment". (from Seinen Shuyokun). Judo practice consists of repeating theoretical techniques and progress is measured after such repeated practice. Once an objective is set, search for the most advantageous method for it to be carried out. This attitude of not giving up quickly and pursuing thoroughly until the objective is fulfilled is something that is important no matter what line of work you choose. In the Hagakure the following is found:

"During the course of study, there is no accomplishment. At the point of accomplishment there is a contrary nature. Throughout one's life when you are thinking of dying and thinking of discontent you will become a person of accomplishment when this is noticed later".

Professor Kano always instructed his students to attend to their business with the spirit of "No, I won't give in". When he was asked to write some maxims by his students he often gave them such phrases as tsutomureba kanarazu tassu (if there is effort, there is always accomplishment), katsuryoku (effort), and others that showed the spirit of "Seiryokuzenyo".

IV. Points to Be Heeded in Instruction

Professor Kano expounded on the method of Judo instruction and put forth four items:

(1) kata (form), (2) randori (free practice) (3) kogi (lectures), and (4) mondo (questions and answers). Lectures include those of a long duration for the purpose of understanding Judo more deeply and those of dealing with technique, practice lessons, and matches in general. The content of the lectures covers the history of Judo development, fundamentals, the value of training, the sport as a science, theory of physical education, and other topics. This is done logically and systematically over a long period. The latter are directly related to technique, directly related to dojo etiquette and practice attitude as well as social life, and directly related to social life as well as a social attitude.

When such lectures are given it is hoped that they will make an impression on the mind whether it might be 50 minutes or even a short 5 minute lecture on technique. When trying to make logical and systematic theory understood, it should be done within a short time. Since for most a considerable amount of time is necessary, some other time and opportunity must be considered. When planning lecture material, be careful that it is (1) adjusted according to the level of the development of the trainees and their way of life, and (2) sensitive to the trainees' feelings and their understanding. There must be a prudent choice of the lectures given by the instructors. There is a saying in Japan that "ryoyaku, kuchi ni nigashi" (good medicine tastes bad). In the Hagakure: "In the world there are many who teach and few who enjoy that teaching. And those who follow those teachings are rare". To achieve a result through education in the Way is difficult. This is actually a turning point in the life of the young people who learn judo, and since it nurtures the roots of the spirit and the body the instructors should keep the spirit of Professor Kano in mind. We find the following passage by Professor Kano about the quest, realization, and instruction of the Way of Judo: "There is nothing greater under the heavens than education. The virtue of one spreads to many; in real
education goes on for hundreds of years".

While the old form, jujutsu, was studied solely for fighting purposes, Kano's new system is found to promote the mental as well as the physical faculties. While the old schools taught nothing but practice, the modern Judo gives the theoretical explanation of the doctrine, at the same time giving the practical a no less important place.
.....T. Shidachi, 1892

The Meaning of Osu!

Osu is a contraction of two japanese characters: Oshi + Shinobu

It means patience, determination and perseverance.

Osu! means many things within the Martial Arts. It's often used as a greeting; to show respect to one another, especially one's Sensei; it's used to convey understanding or agreement when asked a question, or when asked to perform a task.

Judo and KaiZen

"Kaizen" means "continuous improvement". It comes from the Japanese words "Kai" meaning school and "Zen" meaning wisdom. This is the key to the Japanese way of thinking. Kaizen often takes place one small step at a time, hence the English translation: "continuous improvement," or "continual improvement." Yet radical changes for the sake of goals such as just in time, and moving lines also gain the full support of upper level management. Goals for kaizen workshops are intentionally set very high because there are countless examples of drastic reductions in process lead time to serve as proof of their practicality.

The cycle of kaizen activity can be defined as: standardize an operation -> measure the standardized operation (find cycle time and amount of in-process inventory) -> gauge measurements against requirements -> innovate to meet requirements and increase productivity -> standardize the new, improved operations -> continue cycle ad infinitum.

Learn-by-Doing

The "Zen" in Kaizen emphasizes the learn-by-doing aspect of improving production. This philosophy is focused in a different direction from the "command-and-control" improvement programs of the mid-20th century. Kaizen methodology includes making changes and looking at the results, then adjusting. Large-scale preplanning and extensive project scheduling are replaced by smaller experiments in improvement, which can be rapidly adapted as new improvements are suggested.

The Five S's is the name for a Japanese system of workplace cleaning and organization. The Japanese have long recognized the vital importance of workplace housekeeping. Many Japanese organizations follow a simple but rigorous housekeeping program known as the Five Ss:

• Seiri, which can be translated as sorting, refers to the practice of sorting through all the tools, materials, etc., in the work area and keeping only essential items. Everything else is stored or discarded. This leads to fewer hazards and less clutter to interfere with productive work.
  
• Seiton, or organizing, focuses on the need for an orderly workplace. Tools, equipment, and materials must be systematically arranged for the easiest and most efficient access. There’s a place for everything, and everything has it’s place.
  
• Seiso, which means cleaning, indicates the need to keep the workplace clean as well as neat. Cleaning in Japanese organizationss is a daily activity. At the end of each shift, the work area is cleaned up and everything is restored to its place.
  
• Seiketsu, or standardizing, allows for control and consistency. Basic housekeeping standards apply everywhere in the facility. Everyone knows exactly what his or her responsibilities are. House keeping duties are part of regular work routines.
  
• Shitsuke, which means sustaining, refers to maintaining housekeeping standards and keeping the facility in safe and efficient order day after day, year after year.
  

As striving Judoka, we are not perfect. This is the very reason why we must constantly train our minds and bodies to continuously improve by degrees moment by moment, ever remembering the tenets taught us by masters ahead of us.

Just Do It

The Way is in training. Experience and study of lessons from the past - from masters of BuDo/BushiDo - teach us that the only secret in the attainment of technical proficiency in combat is training. This is affirmed by great warriors of old such as Miyamoto Musashi and reaffirmed by other great warriors of the 20th century such as Mas Oyama (Kyukoshinkai karate), Masahiko Kimura (Kodokan Judo). Oyama once said that "all selfish desires should be roasted in the fires of hard training... that the essence of martial arts can only be realized through experience... that a warrior should never fear its demands". Kimura was noted to have trained as hard as Oyama and both warriors excelled in the martial path they each followed. They fought as hard as they trained. This is the actualization of combat and not just the conceptualization of it.

The point is Zen. Nothingness. Through repeatitive hard training the warrior absorbs the essence of techniques. There is no accumulation of concepts - rather, there is the sweeping away of unnecessary thoughts. No mindedness - the mind as "No Mind". The warrior does not stall to think what technique is applicable. It simply happens. A warrior fights the way he trains. As I would fondly recall... This is exactly why Kinjho Sensei use to shout at us during shiai randori... "Don't stop!!! Just go!!! Keep going!!! Don't think!!! Just go!!!" ...And so randori went over and over for hours... At times, we end up bloodied and broken... but not in spirit. And the next time we encounter... it simply happens... the way we trained... the way we fought... the way we saw it happen in our mind during meditation. If the warrior thinks of a concept in a life and death situation, he stalls, and the blade cuts and he drops his head. The beauty of actual combat is in its outcome - surviving the fight - achieving the demise of your opponent. There is no beauty in concepts alone. Pure beauty of the martial arts is in the outcome of the encounter. Compare Martial Arts to a bonsai - constantly take away that which is unnecessary. Until the warrior attains the state of "No Mind" and becomes one with all that is around him he cannot experience the Zen of Combat. Train hard in training... Fight hard in actual combat. There is no time to think. As a samurai puts it - "one moment one movement decides whether you live or die. There is no time to waste..."

Train hard, never say die. Just do it!

My Personal Judo History

Sometime in early 1983 while practicing armlocks and throws in the Paglaum Judo Dojo where my friend Russell Nuñez and I have been invited by Elbert Pama another friend, we were observed and later invited by Antonio Mondejar Sensei to join the Paglaum Judo Club. Since then it has all been Judo for me. I have continued to cross train in other martial arts but Judo became my foundation.

Bro. Russell Nuñez, now based in the U.S. and a member of the U.S. Judo Fed.

My training in Judo continued under Efren Diongon Sensei when Antonio Mondejar Sensei left for Oklahoma in the United States. With Diogon Sensei I have participated in teaching Judo to active law enforcers and Criminology students of the University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos where Judo was a vital part of the curriculum.

Antonio Mondejar Sensei (second from right) with American Judokas in his new Ada Judo Club in Oklahoma, USA

In 1994 Masaharu Kinjho Sensei a Kodokan Judo 8th dan visited the Paglaum Judo Club and trained with us. It was with Kinjho Sensei that I learned the difference between "Judo as a sport" and "Judo as culture and as a way of life". Under his strict guidance i have directly learned the ethics of the "bushi". To this day, I have continue to be Kinjho Sensei's student.

Kinjho Sensei was the founder, President, and chief Instructor of the ATLETA Judo Club where I was his appointed Vice President and Assistant Senior Instructor. ATLETA Judo Club had its glory days when its members used to bag a good number of gold medals in national competitions. However, due to some different emerging priorities in the Local Government sponsoring it, ATLETA Judo Club ceased operation. In later years however, Kinjho Sensei started to activate the teaching of Judo in the place where he resides. Kinjho Sensei never ceased to lose enthusiasm in reaching out to the grass roots and teach the culture and values of Judo.

Kinjho Masaharu Sensei together with his children Sueko and Patricia, and Dannie San Joacquin Sensei - a fellow Traveller.

To all my Sensei I give back the honor and sincerely express my indebtedness. Os!

What is Seijitsu Judo

Welcome to the Seijitsu Judo Dojo Website.

The Japanese word seijitsu translates as "honest; sincere; faithful" and is composed of the kanji (read as "sei") meaning "sincerity; truth; fidelity" and (read as "jitsu") meaning "truth; reality".

The Japanese word judo is composed of the kanji characters that read ju (read as "juu") meaning "supple; gentle; soft" and do (read as "dou") meaning "the way; teachings".

Seijitsu Judo is True Judo and Seijitsu Dojo teaches True Judo - Judo unadulterated.

The History of Judo in Negros

As told by a mentor in the Martial Arts - Mr. Rodolfo Vivero. This is presented vervatim. As candid as it is, it is what it is... The story and history of Judo in Negros.


History of our Judo club? To begin with, Judo—as a sport of which it is, actually—came to Bacolod when Remy Presas established his club at Rosario-Lacson streets, not far from the residence and club of you dad’s uncle, tio Jose Vinas, the arnis grandmaster. The “White Kimono” club (WKC) was the well-known arnis club for years before the Bacolod-arrival of Remy Presas. Of course, the “White Kimono” club has Judo as part of their course.

The only difference from the club of Remy was the AIM. The aim of the WK club is to use Judo as an adjunct to their already-existing fighting arts, which is varied; whereas in Remy’s club Judo is practiced as a sport, which, as I said, it is actually its purpose. At that time, however, Remy never arranged a contest with the various clubs in Cebu , from which he took the sport. Remy’s teaching of Judo (and Arnis) was concentrated on the moneyed class of Negros Occidental—the hacienderos and their sons in La Salle College . You see, Remy has another aim of his own: “To make money.”

Pat Prologo and I were buddies in high school. We went to Remy’s club, not to play Judo, but to work out with weights. You see, Remy struck a partnership with our friend and idol in Bodybuilding, Mat Llorente, a “Mr. Bacolod” bodybuilding winner. Remy would teach martial arts, while Mat would instruct bodybuilders. Less than a month, I saw Pat in judo gi, playing Judo.

I didn’t like Judo because judoka fought by grabbing each other’s clothes. In a matter of a week, however, I, too, was pushing and pulling and sweating on the mat. Remy really was the one who encouraged me because, at that time, my bodybuilding activities gave a good build and above-average strength. I tell you, Henried, I fell in love with the sport. During those days, Pat even joked that when he dies, he should not be lowered into his grave. Instead, he should be judo-thrown into it.

After three years with Remy, we fought many visitors from other clubs, including from the WKC. Some WKC students wanted to prove that their skill can match our own. Much to their regret, they lost. There are people today who mistake Judo for Jiu-jitsu. The former is the forerunner. The latter is the sport interpretation of it. Because Judo is a sport, it can be practiced with less danger of injuries, thus more practice can be done, until favorite techniques can be applied with greater precision and speed. What I’m driving at, Henried, is this: “Practicing the art as a sport will improve both—as an art and as a sport.” This is the primary reason why I recommended to pare Bert that you study Karate with sensei Mike Vasquez when you were merely a boy. Sensei Mike is an artist and a sportsman rolled into one.

After a year with Remy, Pat and I sensed that our Judo knowledge was stagnant. It was because Remy himself was not a Judo man. He would not even “cross swords” with any of his students. His reason was common among martial arts teachers who are not sportsmen. Incidentally, you ask sensei Mike to spar with you, and he’ll give you the pleasure of “biting the dust.” I am not saying this to disparage Remy, our first teacher in martial arts, specifically Judo. To do so would certainly make me appear ungrateful. And I, for one, hate to be thought of as an ingrate, which I am not (or trying not to be—like everyone else). Remy was not only our teacher but also our friend, although when we gravitate to Anong Javellana, he seemed disappointed.

Remy did not indulge in Judo wholeheartedly, hence his reluctance to really mix it up with his students. But I assure you, Remy had won in various encounters with other arnis men long before he went to the United States and made a name for himself. Black Belt magazine, no less, voted him in its Hall of Fame. I suppose that’s about all I can say of Remy Presas, inasmuch as this piece is about our Judo Club, which metamorphosed into various names before it died out. I must emphasize, though, that Remy was the one who brought Judo as it has always been—a sport—to Negros Occidental. And Pat, Lope (deceased), Marius and I were the first converts.

While we were still with Remy, Remy invited, one evening, one authentic Judo black belt from Manila, who happened to be home for a vacation, a certain Cresenciano (Anong) Javellana from a prominent Javellana family of Bago City. We, who were considered the advanced students of Remy, wanted to experience how this man of average build and below average height (5’4”) can ever make any of us barbell-built men slap the mat, i.e., if we could not do the same to him first—which was our intention all along.

While grabbing Anong’s gi and looking for openings to unbalance him, in an instant I was flying blind and instinctively slapping the mat as I was slammed like a dummy into it. I assure, you, Henried, being a Judo man yourself, that a good, well-timed ippon sionagi (one-arm shoulder throw) can be devastating to an unbalanced opponent. When I said I was blinded, I meant that I had some sort of blackout for one short second. From then on, I knew I want Anong to teach me the how and the wherefore of Judo.

Lucky for Pat and me we have friends who were close to Anong and the Javellanas of Bago City. In the next four month hence, Anong established a Judo club in the Bacolod Shopping Center, his club became our Mecca. We frequently frequent it to practice Judo or to simply talk about the martial arts over cups of coffee up to the wee hours of the night. And because Anong is single (Anong was 8 years older than I) we talked about women, or just about anything under the stars. And we talked and joked around until dawn—all six or eight of us inside his dojo, gulping cups of black coffee.

It was in Anong’s dojo that I met one of his students who love the sport of Judo just as intensely as Pat and I did. His name was Dr. Fred Lamayo. I knew Fred before I knew Bert, your dad.

With an authentic black belt in town, Anong Javellana, Remy recommended the three of us—Pat, Lope, and me to take the brown belt examination. The examiner, of course was Cresenciano ( Anong) Javellana. As a consequence, the three of us were allowed to wear brown belts. I’m here writing about our Judo days. So I think I should impart to you some problems that each of us encountered “on our way to the dojo.”

As usual in every life, people fall in love and, fortunately or unfortunately, get married. Without anyone knowing it, Anong, for many years had had kept a secret flame in his heart for the wife of his best friend. When his friend was ill, Anong did everything to help the widow and her children. When his friend died, Anong revealed his tender feelings for his friend’s widow.

And to make a short story shorter, he and the widow got married. It is true that a married man will do anything for money. And as a married man, Anong was no exception. He gave up his Judo club and became a salesman for a certain company. Though I rarely saw him when he became a salesman of…I really don’t know what he was selling.

At about the same time, Pat Prologo (an undergraduate mechanical engineer) was lucky enough to be employed by Caltex. In a short time, Pat, at Caltex, was the repair man of gasoline pumps at various gas stations throughout the province. He travel often that we rarely see each other. Like all slaves of Nature, whose main duty is to reproduce, Pat got married. At about the same time, I failed in my bid for love with a lovely Spanish mestiza that, out of disappointment, I went into a misadventure of sort in Manila.

It was a misadventure because I don’t really know exactly where to go in that big city. Our past association sometimes can help, as it did in my case. While on the vessel, I met a member of “White Kimono” Club, who once tried his Judo techniques against ours. Though we were not really friends (in those days we were more like competitors), he invited me to spend the night at the place of his uncle, which I did and will be eternal grateful for it.

In Manila, I had the opportunity to visit the Philippine Amateur Judo Association (PAJA). The good thing about the PAJA was that they have Japanese instructors, including Japanese women instructors for Filipina judoka. Those instructors were officially “loaned” to PAJA from the Kudokan, the headquarters of Judo in Japan. Right then, I knew what we missed as Judo students in the province of Negros Occidental.

While I was in Manila struggling to survive as a movie magazine (Screenland) associate editor, Pat, in Bacolod, got hooked with Lucy. As a married man, a husband has a lot of listening to do vis-à-vis his wife. And believe me, there are times when you’d wish you are deaf or your wife were dumb. It is the ambition (or perhaps the nature) of wives to remold or reform their husbands. In short, his wife objected to his Judo activities.

Any activity requires time, and a married man should spend his time with his wife at home. A wise, married man should know that once he got hitched, he should stay hitched by ditching all his bachelor ways and sport activities. There are, of course, wives who understand, but most of them mistrust their husbands once they are out of sight. Knowing how men are as men, I must admit that their suspicion is usually true. There were times when Pat’s Judo activities angered his wife. As a result, he responded by burning his Judo gi and Judo instruction books.

Yet, the desire to play and teach Judo was in Pat’s blood. At Caltex compound, he and some employees began the Caltex Judo Club. One of them was Manuel Villalobos. When the company offered severance pay for those who want to retire, Manuel took it. I think Pat also did. With their money to appease their wives and with the freedom to pursue their Judo ambition, the decided to link with the Cebu Judo Club, for the club in Cebu is a registered member of the PAJA.

Only clubs with PAJA membership can purchase tatami Judo mats from Japan. Manuel Villalobos was the most tenacious in recruiting members for the future Judo club. Finally, the mats arrived and the place to house and use them was in agricultural building of the Provincial Capitol complex. Why? The mats were placed in that building because three or five of the members of the newly formed club were employees of the Bureau of Agriculture of Negros Occidental.

I’m sorry to hear that pare Bert could not give you the complete list of the first fifteen who started the club. The one who really worked for the organizing of the club was Villalobos. Pat really got him interested in the art that he spent his time looking for people who would join establish the first Judo club to use tatami mats exported directly from the Kudokan. Manuel Villalobos has to disturb my office work at Philamlife office to sell the idea of separating me from my money so that we can play Judo again.

Frankly, I don’t want to fall into the mat or throw somebody into it again, since I was already thirty-one years old and had a new baby daughter at the time. Villalobos, however, was so formal and office-oriented that his courteous and friendly approach, plus his enthusiasm fired in me again my love to grab and throw another Judo man—or to be thrown in return. As you know, Henried, in Judo the contest may be so heated and intense but the pain is not as bad as in Karate. In Judo, one you are thrown, all you have to do is break your fall. Or once you are locked or choked, simply slap on your opponent or the mat.

To illustrate: once in a Karate sparring session, I had Bing Leong as my opponent. Bing was one guy who loves the martial arts. Bing delivered a kick into my gut—solar plexus—“bang” Obviously, my gedan barai failed. ! I felt like going down, knees first. But sensei Mike ordered that everyone should stop sparring and sit and listen to what he had to say. So when I got down, nobody knows I was in pain. Even Bing did not know that he connected effectively. I don’t know if sensei Mike saw the hit. I think he did, thus instruction to sit down. God, Bing’s front kick really skewered me because he delivered it in perfect timing—at the very second I was breathing in. In Judo, the same is or should be observed. If you still can remember, the instruction is to attack when your opponent is breathing in. And the reverse of that is to make your breath imperceptible as possible to your opponent.

Going back to Judo, I would like to place Pat as the number 1 member, after all, he was the very heart of the club. Then No.2 was Manuel Villalobos. No.3 was Jun Caduhada. No. 3 was Bert Mirasol. No. 4 Bert Lamayo. 5. Guanco (I can’t recall the first name). 7. Rolando Vivero. 8. Rudy Vivero. 9. A Chinese guy whose name escapes me. 9. Another small fellow who was a government employee of the province. I’m sorry, Henried. I cannot recall the other names of members, simply because, at that time, I simply didn’t see the list. The record was with Manual Villalobos and there were no meetings. We simply go there, donned on our gi and start warming up, and play.

As I see it, the club was established for people who already were familiar with the sport. But I realized that original fifteen members did not want to play randori anymore. Many were like me—past their thirties. Pat once complained that Manuel Villalobos didn’t play randori to improve his Judo. Instead, he wants to teach the young students, who loved to mix it up, simply because of their youth. That is only half of the picture. A few who acquired their original training from that university in Iloilo (I forgot the name of the university—a common mental lapse that is now plaguing my fading memory.) were good. A guy named Bibut from Iloilo throw me three times in one session with his diashi barai (advancing foot sweep). He was so good that the only way I know how to throw him is to strong-arm him with my tai otoshi. Guanco was also experienced and a stronger Judo player.

Dr. Fred Lamayo, your late uncle, now and then came to practice his Judo forms. Your dad, Bert, in my judgment, was (and still is, no doubt) realistic in his approach to the martial arts. He was realistic in a sense that he viewed every move as a real fight, whereas many of us saw (and still do) the martial arts as sport. Your dad wanted every move as “deadly” as possible. I do not fault him a bit at all, for the martial art is truly “martial” before it deserved the additional term “art.” Your dad has the mentality of the ancient samurai warriors, if I have to make a comparison. Pare Bert loved knives, swords, bolos, weapons which can cut, slash, and decapitate.

Henried, I’ll write some more later. I’m now an old man, and old men get sick—a natural course of events. So I feel like unburdening myself of many things in my mind regarding the activities (Judo and Karate) that once consumed my time—in practice and research. As you know, every man is limited in time in this earth. I must say, though, that I have little regrets. I enjoyed the rough and tumble that were necessary in the life of every man.

My only regret is that I sacrificed my college studies for my studies in Judo, as Anong Javellana sacrificed his Engineering ambitions to the Judo blackbelt. Like him, I spent more time in the Dojo than in the classroom. What the heck, Henried, what we did cannot be undone. I hope you will not have too much regret in your life because regret is a sign of weakness.

Always strive to be strong as your dad did with all his martial arts and a lot of long-distance running. He should see his pare Rudy here, who can hardly walk three blocks from the house to the drug store. Old age truly sucks. But if you can feel what old people feel, you’ll agree that the toughest guys on earth are the old guys with health problems, like high blood pressure, heart condition, arthritis, prostate cancer, kidney failure, etc. There are doctors who do nothing but think of names of new diseases that are about to plague aging senor citizens like me and your dad.

This the last write-up on the first Judo club in Bacolod. Sometime after the club’s location in the agricultural building at the provincial capitol, Pat got the permission of one authority in that Paglaum stadium. I cannot say more on this, since I was not involved in the transfer of the 15 pieces of tatami mats. And I didn’t care. I was not tired of Judo, but I was busy with work. Actually, I wanted to be with my children.

At Paglaum Judo Club, the one in charge was Pat. I believe it was the time when he taught Boy Mondejar the game. Jorge Prologo (Sota), younger brother of Pat was also giving his all to the practice of the game. My brother-in-law Rene Cornel got his first taste of Judo after he asked me to recommend to Pat that he will be admitted. At about this time, your dad brought you—his young son—there to know the art of Judo. At this time, you could hardly see the first fifteen. Instead, other recruits, young ones, were the beneficiaries of our generousity.

When Pat was recruited to work in Saudi Arabia, he left the teaching job to Boy Modejar and his brother Jorge. I don’t know how hard you worked to get knowledge and experience at Paglaum under the tutelage of Boy and Sota. I understand Manuel Villalobos sometimes gave some instructions there, since that Manuel loved to teach, though I must be honest that Manual did not have much randori experience. Manuel reminds me of Anong Javellana’s friend and Judo classmate who taught Judo so well that he even drooled, giving away all the “secrets” of the game to his students. But when he played randori, he, most of the time, ended thrown on the mat. In the martial arts, the teacher is always thought to be an expert and cannot be defeated. This is crazy, of course. On the other hand in professional boxing, the trainer-couch is not expected to last one round or two against the boxer he trains and coaches.

Manuel perhaps considered himself a good Judoka because, at one time, a man, who was slightly tipsy, was pushing Manuel around, threatening physical violence. Manuel really looks like a push-over because he looked like a typical office worker, which he was. Your dad was an office worker, too, but he took care of his physical condition that he looked ready for any emergency. Incidentally, Manuel and your dad are good friends. In fact, your dad was instrumental in Manuel’s employment with your dad’s workplace.

Going back to that slightly innervated guy who was a threat to Manuel’s physical safety, Manuel was certainly ready to react if the attack would come. Well, it did, the guy threw a punch, Manuel blocked and rotated his body inside, and close to the attacker’s front, then he throw the guy with a well-executed hip throw. The guy landed in shock. Henceforth, whenever we are with Manuel that incident would crop up. There were times that I didn’t like to be with Manuel anymore because I was so tired of hearing the same story over and over.

Before Pat left for Saudi Arabia, he officially connected with PAJA Cebu. That connection was the beginning of Judo contests between Cebu and Negros. Paglaum Judo Club went as far as Mindanao to try their abilities and luck with other Judo clubs. I remember that one contest was held in La Salle, Bacolod between Cebu and Bacolod. I wonder if you were one of the contestants in that tournament. Pat Prologo, indeed, was the spirit in the rise of the first sport Judo in Negros Occidental.

Later, much later than Remy Presas and the “White Kimono”, I heard that Judo training was done at the Vasquez red house. All I know was that Bandot and Chugging, our fellow barbell men long before, were among the members. I was not able to get there because at that time, Judo was far from my mind. I don’t know if that was the Judo club wherein, sensei Mike Vasquez practiced Judo.

Later on the mats were transferred to St. Joseph’s High School. Many students there were trained by Rene Cornel and Jorge (Sota) Prologo. Then much later the mats, found a home at YMCA bacolod. Many of my fellow Judo buddies are now gone. Anong died from diabetic stroke, my brother Rolando died of a stroke, Sota, who was trying to supply me with fact regarding the club, died of a disease I did not know of. The last time I saw him, he looked like a dead man already. Rene Cornel died of kidney stones. I don’t know about the others. When I left Bacolod Jun Caduhada was thin and pale, owing to a bad heart—his own.

Whatever happens, it will, especially to old people like me. If this one old man is ever physically threatened (I hope not), I have my Judo and karate to defend myself, if I still can—hopefully.

My best regards, Henried. RUDY




After receiving the emails which came in four installments, I presented them to my father who in turn gave me his own list of those original members he can only recall which due to memory loss brought about by old age were also lacking. My father could only recall eleven out of the original fifteen namely:

1. Bert Lamayo
   
2. Bert Mirasol
   
3. Rafael Claver
   
4. Romeo Dilag
   
5. Rudy Vivero
   
6. Pat Prologo
   
7. Junie Caduhada
   
8. King Guanco
   
9. Dominador Tan
   
10. Marius Arcilla
    
11. Manuel Villalobos
    

After a year names came up and were verified:

1. Horacio San Juan
   
2. Willy Chan
   

Rolando Vivero was a dedicated judoka but did not contribute to the fund used to purchase the original tatami mats from Japan at the time the propagation of Judo was started. Hence, he was not considered to be among the original or pioneers. The word pioneer is to be taken to mean those who invested time, effort, and money in the propagation of Judo and not only in its teaching. Thus, while others have taught Judo, only fifteen have dedicated to its propagation by investing time, effort, and money to buy the tatami mats and find a home for Judo in Negros and propagate the art.

Other people have argued about who's who claiming to know more about the history of Judo in Negros. However, it would take a practicing judoka family member of these original fifteen people to validate such claim. At present, we are still patiently working on getting the names of the other 2 of the original fifteen.


PS. - after a long search, I have established contact with one of Sensei Pat Prologo's dedicated student in Aikido (by this time he has been teaching Aikido to some dedicated people) and have gathered this information:

Pat Prologo, Chief Instructor
Shinsei Aikido Society
3rd Floor, LBC Building
Araneta Street, corner San Sebastian Street
Bacolod City

Sensei Pat teaches on sunday mornings with a closely knit group of students. This information was given to me by Mr. Ricardo Cordova and Mr. Jun Montemayor - members of his core group.