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Ratings: ★★★★★ (4.6/5)
Genre: Martial Arts, Judo, Sports Instruction, Reference

Book Review:
The Sport of Judo by Kiyoshi Kobayashi and Harold E. Sharp lives up to its reputation as a classic and authoritative guide. Hailed by the Asahi Evening News as ''the finest manual on the...art of judo,'' this book delivers a meticulously detailed and systematic approach to learning and teaching the ''gentle way.''

What makes this book stand out is its clear, point-by-point demonstration of over fifty essential techniques. The instructions are precise, and the presentation mirrors the teachings of the Kodokan Institute in Tokyo, lending it immense credibility. For a beginner, it demystifies complex throws and holds, building a solid foundation. For an instructor, it serves as an excellent reference to ensure proper form and methodology. Beyond the techniques, the book offers valuable context with a concise history of judo's development from ancient jujutsu to a modern Olympic sport. The inclusion of Kodokan contest rules and a comprehensive glossary further enhances its utility.

The collaboration between Kobayashi, a lifelong practitioner and researcher in Japan, and Sharp, a 7th-dan holder and experienced author, results in a text that is both deeply knowledgeable and accessible. While it is a manual focused on fundamentals, its depth and clarity make it a lasting resource. As the South China Morning Post noted, it is ''one of the most comprehensive studies ever published in English.'' For anyone serious about understanding or improving in judo, this book is an indispensable companion.