jigoro-kano-kodokan-judo_compress

Basic Points in Training
l. The main dojo of the Kodokan International Judo Center, compieted in 1984
THE DOJO
Judo is practiced in a specially designed building known as a dojo. The
practice area is devoid of sharp corners and potentially dangerous obstructions,
such as pillars, and walls are often paneled. The floor of the room is
covered with reinforced mats, their size and shape being the same as the
tatami found in homes. The mats absorb the impact of falls. To avoid foot
injuries, great care is taken to see that the mats are laid flat, without spaces
between them. Torn mats must be promptly repaired or replaced.
When visiting a dojo for the first time, one is likely to notice how clean it
is kept and to be impressed by its solemn atmosphere. We should remember
that the word dojo comes from a Buddhist term referring to the "place of
enlightenment." Like a monastery, the dojo is a sacred place to which people
come to perfect body and mind.
Randori and kata practice are done in the dojo, which is also the place
where matches are held.
26