Celebrating Kano Jigoro – The Father Of Judo

Kano – The “Father of Japanese Physical Education”

Kano is known as the “Father of Japanese Physical Education.” He launched a general physical education faculty when he was the principal of Tokyo Higher Normal School to ensure teachers could provide quality physical education to Japan’s youth.

He was also the founding member of the Japan Amateur Sports Association (Japan Sports Association) and the first Asian member of the International Olympic Committee in 1909. Kano lectured and demonstrated Judo thirteen times across the world to introduce his art to people.

Kano also undertook the expansion and advancement of the Kodokan Judo Institute, his judo organization. The Kodokan’s student registration grew from a few dozen students in 1882 to over a thousand Dan-graded members by 1911, which was a remarkable achievement in and of itself.

As of 2020, the International Judo Federation has delegates from about 204 nations and territories, with judo enthusiasts from all walks of life walking onto the mat to link their minds, bodies, and souls.