Giant shoulders...

I read about a judo player who sees the 'gentle way' as a sport for individuals.

The article said that this player saw that winning and losing as dependent on each individual and his / her performance every time they step on the mat.

I can see reason in this, up to a point.

Competition gives instant feedback to the individual and their performance usually decides their results.

But isn't this just the 'tip of the iceberg'?

Let me be clear, I have respect for anyone who takes time in their lives to train in a sport or martial art.

My own experience is training in judo for fun (?), fitness and for the remote possibility of self defence.

From this limited experience, I'm fully aware that judo is a sport for individuals who are supported by a group of people.

Whether it's sensei teaching technique or training partners providing the appropriate level of opposition (and extending that technique), a group of people support the individual judo player.

Personally, I can even point to different techniques and the people who have brought these to my attention.

From how to remember ko and o ouchi to varied grip positions for ippon seio nage (and much more besides), I can point to the people who, as they say in all the best awards ceremonies, 'made it all possible'.

So going back to the judo player at the start of this blog, I can only assume he was focusing on the day of competition itself, if not the very seconds of competition.

Every time we step on the mat we rely on the experience and support of so many other people.

As no lesser authority than Sir Isaac Newton put it:

“If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.”

As a final point, I hope you have enjoyed this blog. Please feel free to add your comments, They are greatly valued!!

Also if you would like to follow my motivational quotes on Twitter (or Tweet me!) I am at #toughcom – Be great to hear from ya!

Till next time.

Mike