Elementary Students in France Introduced to Judo Fundamentals
Eight-Week Program Focuses on Ground Techniques and Respect
LA MADELEINE, France – Twenty-eight elementary school students from François-Leizour school are participating in an eight-week judo initiation program at teh Espace sportif de La Madeleine. The program, designed for CM1 and CM2 students, provides an introduction to the sport and its cultural roots.
Emphasis on Safety and Essential Movements
Karine Latruffe-Herviou, a professor at DPG dojo du Trieux, leads the sessions, emphasizing respect, rules, and fundamental judo movements.Due to the students’ lack of experience, the program focuses exclusively on ground techniques. “We don’t do any standing techniques, only on the ground because they don’t know how to fall,” Latruffe-Herviou explained. The training includes learning how to fall safely, how to turn, and how to immobilize an opponent.
Play-Based Learning Sparks Interest in Judo
The sessions also incorporate “all the motor skills of judo” through playful and engaging activities. While the initiation aims to spark interest in the sport, its primary goal is to stimulate the students’ minds and curiosity.
How does this program aim to make learning judo engaging and enjoyable for elementary school children?
Elementary Students in France Introduced to Judo Fundamentals
eight-Week Program Focuses on Ground Techniques and respect
LA MADELEINE, France – Twenty-eight elementary school students from François-Leizour school are participating in an eight-week judo initiation program at the Espace sportif de La Madeleine. The program, designed for CM1 and CM2 students, provides an introduction to the sport and its cultural roots.
Emphasis on Safety and Essential Movements
Karine Latruffe-Herviou, a professor at DPG dojo du Trieux, leads the sessions, emphasizing respect, rules, and essential judo movements. Due to the students’ lack of experience, the program focuses exclusively on ground techniques. “We don’t do any standing techniques, onyl on the ground as they don’t know how to fall,” Latruffe-Herviou explained.The training includes learning how to fall safely, how to turn, and how to immobilize an opponent.
Play-Based Learning Sparks Interest in Judo
The sessions also incorporate “all the motor skills of judo” thru playful and engaging activities.While the initiation aims to spark interest in the sport, its primary goal is to stimulate the students’ minds and curiosity.
Judo Fundamentals: Q&A
What are CM1 and CM2 students?
CM1 and CM2 refer to the fourth and fifth grades of elementary school in the French education system. This program is tailored for children aged approximately 9-11 years old.
Why focus on ground techniques?
Safety is paramount! Since these students are new to judo, the program prioritizes ground techniques (ne-waza) to teach them safe falling methods and basic control before introducing more complex standing techniques (tachi-waza).
What does “respect” mean in Judo?
In Judo, respect (rei) is a core value, encompassing respect for oneself, opponents, instructors, and the training environment (dojo). Students learn to bow before and after practice and to demonstrate good sportsmanship.
What are some engaging judo activities for kids?
Think games like “rolling races” or “animal walks” that mimic judo movements. These activities help children develop coordination and body awareness while making learning fun. You could even try some of these at home with safe supervision! Remember to use soft surfaces like mats or carpets.
Where is the DPG dojo du Trieux?
DPG dojo du Trieux is located in the region of Hauts-de-France in the north of France. This is a local Judo club where Karine Latruffe-Herviou is a professor.
This introduction to judo sets a solid foundation for these young students, fostering not just martial arts skills, but also respect, discipline, and a love for learning.
