Judo vs. Taekwondo — What's the Difference?

A martial art of Japanese origin that emphasizes throws and groundwork.

The sport of striking using feet and fists, often at high speed.

A sport where the aim is to throw or pin the opponent.

A Korean martial art known for its emphasis on kicking.

A discipline focusing on mental and physical growth.

A discipline that promotes physical conditioning and mental discipline.

A method of self-defense and competitive sport requiring close contact.

A form of martial arts training that enhances agility and distance control.

The practice of using an opponent's strength against them.

A competitive martial art scored on the accuracy of strikes.

Judo (柔道, jūdō, Japanese pronunciation: [dʑɯꜜːdoː], lit. "gentle way") is generally categorized as a modern Japanese martial art, which has since evolved into an Olympic event.

Taekwondo, Tae Kwon Do or Taekwon-Do (; Korean: 태권도/跆拳道 [tʰɛ.k͈wʌn.do] (listen)) is a Korean martial art, characterized by punching and kicking techniques, with emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. The literal translation for tae kwon do is "kicking," "punching," and "the art or way of." It is a martial art that attacks or defends with hands and feet anytime, anywhere without any weapons, and the purpose of physical training is important, but it also has great significance in fostering the right mind through mental armament.Taekwondo practitioners wear a uniform, known as a dobok.

A sport and method of physical training similar to wrestling, developed in Japan in the late 1800s and using principles of balance and leverage adapted from jujitsu.

A martial arts form from Korea, known for its elaborate kicking techniques. The sparring aspect is a recognised Olympic sport.

A Japanese martial art and sport adapted from jujutsu.

A sport adapted from jujitsu, originally a method of self-defense without weapons, and similar to wrestling; it was developed in Japan.

A sport adapted from jujitsu (using principles of not resisting) and similar to wrestling; developed in Japan

Judo mainly focuses on grappling techniques like throws and joint locks.

Yes, Judo is effective for self-defense as it teaches control, balance, and how to handle an opponent at close range.

In Judo competitions, points are awarded for throws, pins, and joint locks.

Taekwondo is characterized by its head-height kicks, jumping, and spinning kicks.

Judo practitioners wear a judogi, which is a durable, heavy cotton gi suitable for gripping and grappling.

The dobok is designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing for high kicks and rapid movements.

Yes, Judo has been an Olympic sport since 1964.

Judo focuses on close combat and using an opponent’s weight against them, while Taekwondo focuses on maintaining distance and striking.

Taekwondo training involves a lot of kicking practice, forms, and sparring to develop speed and accuracy.

Taekwondo practitioners typically wear protective gear during sparring, including headgear, mouthguards, and padding.

Taekwondo improves cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and overall muscle strength through dynamic movements and kicks.

Children as young as five can start learning Taekwondo, which is suitable for all ages.

Judo is practiced worldwide and is governed internationally by the International Judo Federation.

Yes, many practice Taekwondo for fitness, self-discipline, and personal growth, not just competition.

A Taekwondo match is won by scoring higher points through accurately landed kicks and punches within the match’s duration.