The Loras College Judo Club was founded in 1961 by a group of Loras students. Since that time, it has grown to a well known and highly respected judo club throughout Iowa and surrounding states. The club is registered with the United States Judo Inc. and is also recognized by the principle school of Judo, the Kodokan, in Tokyo, Japan. The 2005 club is taught by Terrance Smith, a 5^th degree black belt. Classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:15pm to 9:15pm at the Graber Sports Center. Judo can also be taken as a 1 credit course.

    Judo originated in Japan from its original form, Jujitsu. Judo which means “gentle way,” was modified to use maximum efficiency with minimum effort. Judo is a sport that can be practiced by any size, gender, or age; as it requires skill and technique to win. In class, students will learn to throw, pin, choke, and apply armbars to their opponents.

   Judo greatly improves both a person’s physical and mental abilities. It gives students self-confidence, better reasoning and judgment, along with a stronger and more fit body. Judo is also an excellent form of self-defense and will certainly allow a person to take care of him or herself should any circumstances require it.