Kano gave his technique a new name to differentiate it from traditional Jujitsu, which had fallen into disrepute. Many Jujitsu practitioners had distorted the art, using it for violence or as a way to make money. Some Jujitsu masters had organized groups that took part in public demonstrations for profit--this clashed with the humanitarian and ethical approach Kano wanted to promote. In addition to establishing a complex and highly structured set of techniques, Kano also instituted a code of ethics. He taught that serving as a model of good character was as important to the art as was becoming skilled in the physical aspects. Kano established strict guidelines: Students and instructors were not allowed to participate in hand-to-hand combat outside the dojo (exercise hall), participate in public demonstrations for profit or engage in any other behavior that could dishonor the school; anyone who did risked expulsion.

Kano used four teaching methods: randori, or free practice; kata, or formal exercise; ko, or lecturing; and mondo, or question and answer periods. He organized the Judo techniques into sets, ranked according to level of difficulty. Students progressed gradually as they became more proficient--Kano realized many of the moves could be lethal if used before a student was ready.

Kano dedicated his life to promoting his technique, traveling to America and Europe and around the world. As Judo’s followers became more organized, the techniques were refined and Judo associations were formed. The Kodokan Yudanshakai, or association of black belt holders, was founded in 1900. In 1905, Judo became the official successor to Jujitsu, when 18 Jujitsu masters joined Kano’s system. In 1909, Kano’s school, the Kodokan, became a foundation and in 1920 the throwing techniques were revised. The founding of the Kodokan Cultural Judo Society in 1922 signified the evolution of the art’s intellectual and moral components.

During the first half of the 20th century, several Judo practitioners left Japan and spread the teachings to other continents. In 1952, the first team of Judo students from the United States Air Force was trained, and this group formed the basis of the United States Judo Association. As Judo’s popularity increased throughout the world, its physical and competitive aspects began to dominate, and it became more of a sport than a way of life. In 1964 it was included in the Olympic Games, and is the only martial art that is a full Olympic medal sport. Judo continues to evolve: In 1982 the throwing techniques were revised and expanded, in 1992 the Olympic Games included a women’s division and in 1997 two more throws were added.