Judo is a martial art and combat sport that originated in Japan. One of the distinctive features of judo uniforms is the blue gi, which has become an iconic symbol of the sport.
But what makes these blue gi uniforms so special? There are several theories as to why judo champions wear this particular color, but one popular explanation dates back to the early days of judo in the 1930s. According to legend, a black belt judoka who was known for his exceptional skills and discipline decided to dye his entire uniform blue.
Legend has it that he wanted to symbolize the connection between his body and mind. By wearing all blue, he believed he would be able to maintain his focus and concentration under pressure, even in the most intense battles.
The use of blue as a primary color for judo uniforms became widespread in the 1950s. This was largely due to the influence of American judoka who were introduced to the sport during World War II.
According to some sources, American judokas wore white gi uniforms and red belts, while Japanese judokas wore black gi uniforms. However, as the sport gained popularity in Japan, the use of blue became more widespread.
The secret behind the color blue lies not only in its symbolic meaning but also in its practical applications. The blue gi uniform has become an integral part of judo culture and identity, representing a commitment to discipline, focus, and excellence.