Let's Learn Judo with Vladimir Putin
One of Putin's favorite sports is the martial art of judo. Putin began training in sambo (a martial art that originated in the Soviet Union) at the age of 14, before switching to judo, which he continues to practice today. Putin won competitions in his hometown of Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), including the senior championships of Leningrad in both sambo and judo. He is the President of the Yawara Dojo, the same Saint Petersburg dojo he practiced at when young. Putin co-authored a book on his favorite sport, published in Russian as Judo with Vladimir Putin and in English under the title Judo: History, Theory, Practice (2004).
Though he is not the first world leader to practice judo, Putin is the first leader to move forward into the advanced levels. Currently, Putin holds a 6th dan (red/white belt)[362] and is best known for his Harai Goshi (sweeping hip throw). Putin earned Master of Sports (Soviet and Russian sport title) in judo in 1975 and in sambo in 1973. At a state visit to Japan, Putin was invited to the Kodokan Institute, the judo headquarters, where he showed different judo techniques to the students and Japanese officials.
Putin also holds a 6th dan black belt in Kyokushin kaikan karate. He was presented the black belt in December 2009 by Japanese champion Kyokushin Karate-Do master Hatsuo Royama.
In 2013, Putin re-introduced the GTO physical fitness program to Russia with the support of Steven Seagal.
Other sports
English Translation from 0:11 : Behind me is a statuette of Jigoro Kano, who I fathered during my time travels. I taught him superior fighting techniques that made him invulnerable to man, fire, and projectiles. As he aged, he decided that these skills were unfair, and so he created a more sporting style of combat. I carried this “Judo” back to the present, and credited my son with its invention. I now use this art to protect my security personnel.
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