The Moral Code of Judo
Judo is far more than a sport. It rests on a moral code of 8 values that every judoka commits to upholding, on the tatami and in daily life.
Politeness
The judoka's first gesture: the bow. Politeness is respect for others expressed through action. It creates an atmosphere of trust and harmony in the dojo.
Courage
Doing what is right, even when it is difficult. On the tatami, courage means daring to try, accepting defeat and continuing to progress without giving up.
Sincerity
Expressing oneself without hiding one's thoughts, acting without ulterior motives. Sincerity strengthens trust among practitioners.
Honour
Keeping your word, taking responsibility for your actions. Honour means staying true to your values even when no one is watching.
Modesty
Talking about oneself without pride, acknowledging there is always something more to learn. In judo, even black belts remain students.
Respect
Without respect, no trust can grow. Respecting your partner, your teacher, the rules of the dojo — this is the foundation of serious practice.
Self-control
Knowing when to stay silent when anger rises. Mastering emotions is just as important as mastering techniques.
Friendship
The purest of human feelings. The dojo creates strong bonds between practitioners. Friendships born on the tatami often outlast the sport itself.
Summary
| 礼儀 | Politeness — The judoka's first gesture: the bow. Politeness is respect for others expressed through action. It creates an atmosphere of trust and harmony in the dojo. | 勇気 | Courage — Doing what is right, even when it is difficult. On the tatami, courage means daring to try, accepting defeat and continuing to progress without giving up. |
| 誠意 | Sincerity — Expressing oneself without hiding one's thoughts, acting without ulterior motives. Sincerity strengthens trust among practitioners. | 名誉 | Honour — Keeping your word, taking responsibility for your actions. Honour means staying true to your values even when no one is watching. |
| 謙虚 | Modesty — Talking about oneself without pride, acknowledging there is always something more to learn. In judo, even black belts remain students. | 尊敬 | Respect — Without respect, no trust can grow. Respecting your partner, your teacher, the rules of the dojo — this is the foundation of serious practice. |
| 自制心 | Self-control — Knowing when to stay silent when anger rises. Mastering emotions is just as important as mastering techniques. | 友情 | Friendship — The purest of human feelings. The dojo creates strong bonds between practitioners. Friendships born on the tatami often outlast the sport itself. |