An analogy which illustrates judo's philosophy is thinking of the willow tree standing in the eye of a violent storm. During a raging storm, the willow is blown and the tree bends with the force and then regains a straight stance while the mighty oak tree stands its ground and is quickly uprooted by the fury of the storm and the oak is cast asunder. A practioner of judo learns throwing skills, pinning holds and submission techniques such as chokes and armlocks. This is an example of judo's principle of mutual welfare and benefit. Both men and women train in the sport of judo.
Modern judo is also an excellent form of self defense.
Like any other sport, it is important to begin with warm ups. Cardio vascular activities include walking, skipping, sliding, jogging, running and circuits. Other activities include stretching to increase flexibility and limber up the body. It is important to make these activities fun and exciting. To do so, warm-ups are always concluded with an intense game such as team handball and the pulling game to get everyone's heart pumping.