Judo Books for Sale Online

A to Z of Judo by Syd Hoare
Very good photographs and descriptions of almost all of the throwing and grappling techniques of the Judo masters. Highly recommended.

Armlocks by Neil Adams
This former world champion produced the most comprehensive survey of Judo armlock techniques ever undertaken, including many used successfully in international competition by the author himself. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US. Excellent.

The Art of Groundfighting by Marc Tedeschi
Published in March 2002, this book has more than 1200 photographs showing over 195 practical techniques encompassing all types of ground skills: chokes, head locks, joint locks, pins, ground kicks, sacrifice techniques, and defenses and counters from seated, reclining, and kneeling positions.

The Art of Holding by Marc Tedeschi
Published in October 2001, this book by a Kapkido 5th dan includes 1300 photographs introducing over 155 techniques encompassing all types of holds: joint-lock holds, chokes, head locks, nerve holds, pressure point attacks, takedowns, ground pins, advanced combination holds and transitions, and defenses against chokes and joint-lock holds.

The Art of Throwing by Marc Tedeschi
Published in September 2001, this book outlines the essential principles and techniques that define the art of throwing in most martial arts. More than 1200 photographs introduce over 130 practical techniques: shoulder throws, hip throws, hand throws, leg throws, sacrifice throws, kick-counter throws, advanced combination throws and transitions, and defenses against throws.

Ashiwaza by Nobuyuki Sato
An excellent examination of foot techniques (de-ashi-barai, okuri-ashi-barai, harai-tsuri-komi-ashi and sasae-tsuri-komi-ashi) including many effective variations and follow-ups. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Ashiwaza II by Michael Swain
An excellent examination of foot techniques (ouchi-gari, kouchi-gari, kosoto-gari and hiza-guruma ) including many effective variations and follow-ups. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Attacking Judo by Katsuhiko Kashiwazaki, Hidetoshi Nakanishi
This is a useful compendium of counters, combination techniques, and matwork. Relying on good drawings to show important movements and body placement in place of lengthy text descriptions, this book is an excellent reference for students to refer to for training ideas.

The Bare Essentials Guide for Martial Arts Injury Care and Prevention by Trish Bare-Grounds
Published in 2001 this guide covers stretching exercises, conditioning, diet, self-care, advice on developing an Emergency Medical Plan for coaches, and taping strategies for injury prevention and care.

Best Judo by Isao Inokuma, Nobuyuki Sato
Fundamentals of throwing techniques, grappling techniques, combination techniques, and training. Very comprehensive and highly recommended as an excellent reference and learning tool.

Black Belt: Judo Skills and Techniques by Neil Ohlenkamp
The long-awaited and highly recommended guide for serious students seeking advancement and success in Judo. Published in 2006, this comprehensive 160-page hardback authored by the well-respected founder of JudoInfo.com includes theory, principles and techniques. A unique, modern Judo book with hundreds of diagrams and professional full-color action photos covering every official Kodokan technique, as well as variations, combinations, and advice. Also available in a US edition called Judo Unleashed, a Dutch edition, or a German edition Meisterliches Judo. More information about the book is available at BlackBeltJudo.com.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Theory and Technique by Renzo Gracie, Royler Gracie, Kid Peligro
An excellent explanation of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with very clear photos and descriptions of many fine techniques that apply to Judo competition as well as self defense.

Bruce Tegner’s Complete Book of Self-Defense Judo by Bruce Tegner

Budo Secrets: Teachings of the Martial Arts Masters by John Stevens
This inexpensive book is full of the wisdom of various budo masters. A very nice collection of principles to think about and live by.

Canon of Judo by Kyuzo Mifune
A newly translated edition of this Judo classic by one of the most famous Judo 10th dans. This is an excellent 256 page book with lots of techniques not shown in other books, including ankle and knee locks. Originally published in 1956 with an almost incomprehensible English translation, it has been out of print for decades. The original publisher released this new edition in June 2004 with the original photos and an excellent English translation.

Championship Grappling Techniques by Kid Peligro, Jean Jacques Machado
112 advanced grappling techniques focusing on submissions on the ground.

Classical Budo: The Martial Arts and Ways of Japan by Donn F. Draeger

Close-Quarter Combat: A Soldier’s Guide to Hand-To-Hand Fighting by Leonard Holifield

Code of the Samurai: A Modern Translation of the Bushido Shoshinsu by Yuzan Daidoji and Thomas Cleary

Combat Sports by Robert Sandelson

Competitive Judo by Ron Angus
A comprehensive resource for winning in competitive judo today. Published in 2005, this book shows up-to-date techniques and is a guide to developing the technical skills, tactical maneuvers, and proper mind-set to achieve ultimate success in the sport.

The Complete 7 Katas of Judo by M. Kawaishi

The Complete Kano Jiu-Jitsu (Judo) by H. Irving Hancock, Katsukuma Higashi

Comprehensive Asian Fighting Arts by Donn F. Draeger and Robert W. Smith
Written in 1969, this book is a classic text on the Asian martial arts.

Elements of Judo: A Guide for Coaches by Jim Sheedy
This book covers judo drills, 19 essential standing and ground techniques, and a lot of specific coaching information applicable to training in judo. Excellent reference for coaches interested in expanding their knowledge. Contact the author by email at [email protected] for purchase inquiries.

The Essence of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by Rigan Machado
A very good reference book for submissions.

The Father of Judo: A Biography of Jigoro Kano by Brian Watson and Yukimitsu Kano
A very easily read source of information about the founder of Judo.

The Fighter’s Notebook by Kirik Jenness, David Roy
This huge reference manual uses over 600 pages, 3,500 images, and 100,000 words to display many hundreds of mixed martial arts techniques, from striking, to takedowns, to ground control, to submission.

Fighting Spirit of Judo: The Technique and Spirit to Win by Yasuhiro Yamashita
This excellent book gives us a glimpse of the soul of Judo, and also covers the winning techniques of one of the greatest Judoka ever.

Foot Throws by Hayward Nishioka

Gene Lebell’s Grappling and Self-Defense for the Young Adult by Gene Lebell

Gene LeBell’s Grappling World: The Encyclopedia of Finishing Holds by Gene LeBell
You can’t find a book with more information about painful finishing holds than this one.

Gene Lebell’s Handbook of Judo: A Step by Step Guide to Winning in Sport Judo by Gene Lebell

Get to Grips With Competition Judo by Peter Holme

The Gokyo by Barnaby Chesterman
A beautifully designed book giving a brief outline of the 40 throwing techniques of the Gokyo. Each throw is accompanied by color photos from competition, and a set of 5 or 6 small photos of Neil Adams demonstrating the technique. Although basic, it was an interesting read and is attractive enough to set on your coffee table for your friends to see.

Grappling Master: Combat for Street Defense and Competition by Gene Lebell

Grips by Neil Adams
One of the Judo Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US. The world champion author covers in detail all the variations of gripping. Highly recommended.

Harai Goshi by Jean-Luc Rouge
One of the Judo Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US. An excellent book dedicated to the technique harai goshi, it explores grips, variations, entries, combinations, and self-defence application, by a world champion judoka.

Japan’s Ultimate Martial Art: Jujitsu Before 1882 by Darrell Max Craig

Judo by Bill Gutman

Judo by Pamela Randall

Judo (Get Going! Martial Arts) by Neil Morris (2001)
For ages 9 to 12.

Judo (Illustrated History of Martial Arts) by Kevin Casey

Judo (Teach Yourself) by Syd Hoare
A very good book full of information about Judo, including theory.

Judo: A Pictorial Manual by Pat Harrington, Betty Huxley
A good manual which includes photos of more techniques than any other book (the entire go kyo, the katas, etc). A very complete reference.

Judo Basics: Principles, Rules, and Rankings by Pat Harrington, Patricia Harrington, Keiko Fukuda, Hayward Nishioka
Published in 2002, subjects include a brief history of judo, the structure of international judo, a basic introduction to judo with principles and aims, the dojo, equipment, ranking system, warming-up and cooling-down exercises, kumikata, bowing, gokyo-no-waza, learning to become an instructor, ukemi, uchikomi, the role of the coach, breakfalling basics, grade requirements, and competition rules.

Judo: Beginner to Black Belt by Bruce Tegner

Judo: Essential Guide to Mastering the Art by Alex Butcher
Published in April 2002 this is a very clear, well-written guide to Judo for beginners.

Judo: History, Theory, Practice by Vladimir Putin
A new book (2004) by the President of Russia, this is highly recommended for those interested in developing their Judo arsenal and deepening understanding of competitive Judo.

Judo: Top Action by Ulrich Klocke
Published in 2001, this book covers modern throwing techniques with good competition photos.

Judo Formal Techniques: A Complete Guide to Kodokan Randori No Kata by Tadao Otaki and Donn F. Draeger
The most complete reference on kata available, and an essential guide for anyone studying nage-no-kata and katame-no-kata with lots of general information applicable to all kata. Highly recommended.

Judo Games by Toni Goffe

Judo Heart and Soul by Hayward Nishioka
Published in 1999, this book is by one of the greats of American Judo. It examines various aspects of competition and training. It is not a book on judo technique, but it is about the influence judo training can have on your life, as well as what it takes to be a champion.

Judo in the US: A Century of Dedication by David Matsumoto, Michael Brousse
Whether you are new to Judo or a seasoned veteran, you will learn things you never knew and gain a new appreciation for what has been given to us by those who came before us. This book is worthwhile not only for its historical significance, but also for its practical and insightful thoughts on the meaning of Judo and its future.

Judo (Jujutsu) by Jigoro Kano
This is a complete reprint (2001) of the last book published by Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, which was originally published in 1937. This book is an excellent introduction to the world of Judo. It details Kano’s development of his martial art, as well as some of the rules and regulations of the Kodokan system before World War II. Judo (Jujutsu) also features over 60 rare photographs of Kano demonstrating Judo techniques, including rare photographs of women’s training, among others for a total of 71 photographs.

Judo Memoirs of Jigoro Kano by Brian N. Watson
This is over 200 pages of text translated from published notes of an interview done with Jigoro Kano in the late 1920’s by Torahei Ochiai. This material has been available in Japanese for many years — it was first published in a series of articles in 1927 and 1928 in the monthly Kodokan Culture Council magazine Sako, and was re-published in 1992 in Kano Jigoro Chosakushu (Collected Works of Jigoro Kano) volume III. The Kodokan keeps very tight control over the written work of Jigoro Kano. This means original information like this is rare and valuable. Mr. Watson also includes a nice essay of his own on the influence of judo on Japanese society. Published in 2008.

Judo Strategy: Turning Your Competitors’ Strength to Your Advantage by David B. Yoffie, Mary Kwak
This book published in 2001 delves into three principles of Judo (movement, balance, and leverage) to show how each could be applied in business. The book then explores the way three prominent New Economy companies have successfully put the Judo strategy into practice. Finally, they offer insight into fending off others who employ the Judo strategy.

Judo Techniques and Tactics by Didier Janicot, Gilbert Pouillart, Christophe Gagliano

Judo Techniques and Tactics by Jimmy Pedro and William Durbin
An inexpensive introduction to Judo.

Judo Textbook: In Practical Application by Hayward Nishioka
A fine textbook reviewing all aspects of Judo

Judo Training Methods by Takahiko Ishikawa, Donn Draeger
A complete guide to Judo training exercises (including weight training) in theory and practice. Very comprehensive text authored by well-respected Judoka. Previously out-of-print but now available again.

Judo Twins by Stan Friedland
An interesting book about twin brothers who were given up by their dysfunctional parents as infants and sent to orphanages. They grew up to become world class athletes and became known the around the world as the Judo Twins. The difficult journey of the twins is a moving story. It was their great passion for Judo that provided the pathway in their unending quest for improvement and self-expression. Some of the biggest names on the national and international judo scene in the last 50 years voice their innermost thoughts in this book to explain why this sport has had such an overwhelming impact on their own lives.

Judo Unleashed by Neil Ohlenkamp
The long-awaited and highly recommended guide for serious students seeking advancement and success in Judo. Published in 2006, this comprehensive 160-page text authored by the well-respected founder of JudoInfo.com includes theory, principles and techniques. A unique, modern Judo book with hundreds of diagrams and professional full-color action photos covering every official Kodokan technique, as well as variations, combinations, and advice. Also available in a UK hardback edition called Black Belt: Judo Skills and Techniques, a Dutch version, or a German edition Meisterliches Judo. More information about the book is available at JudoUnleashed.com.

Judo with Words: An Intelligent Way to Counter Verbal Attacks by Barbara Berckhan (2001)
This is a handbook for verbal self-defence. Barbara Berckhan describes techniques of protecting and defending oneself effectively in challenging communication situations, how to shorten hostile interchanges and stop provocations.

Junior Judo by Mike Leigh

Ju No Kata : A Kodokan Judo Textbook by Keiko Fukuda
This new (2004) book describes the history and importance of Ju No Kata to the study and practice of judo. It also serves as a semi autobiography of the author, Keiko Fukuda, 9th dan, who is the world’s foremost authority on Ju No Kata. At the age of 90, she still practices her passion. Understanding Ju No Kata is essential for passing higher-rank tests and this book, imbued with Fukuda’s wisdom, is comprehensive and definitive. See more information about Ju no Kata and Keiko Fukuda.

Karate and Judo: How to Play the All-Star Way by Thomas Nardi Hardcover and paperback

Kodokan Judo by Jigoro Kano
This is the definitive source of information about Judo by the founder. This paperback edition is affordable, complete and updated with techniques not in previous editions. This is the most important book for every student of Judo to have.

Kodokan Judo: Throwing Techniques by Toshiro Daigo
All the sixty-seven official Kodokan throwing techniques and their various forms are explained thoroughly and concisely, and over 1,800 excellent photographs accompany the text to provide the most comprehensive and authoritative guide to judo’s throwing forms to date. The author is a Kodokan 10th dan and considered by most to be the world’s foremost expert on judo.

Martial Musings: A Portrayal of Martial Arts in the 20th Century by Robert Smith
A good read, full of history and Judo fun, with remembrances of the early Judo greats. A seriously entertaining read. Highly recommended.

Master of Judo by Richard Brightfield, Frank Bolle

Mastering Judo by Masao Takahashi
Published in May 2005, this book is a solid compendium covering Focus and Attitude, Training Methods, Control Grips, Standing Combinations and Counters, Physical Preparation, Match Plans, Competitive Strategies, and Tactics as well Traditional Value and Etiquette. Lots of photos showing correct movement.

Modern Bujutsu and Budo by Donn Draeger
By the most important martial art historian of our time, this book discusses Judo in the broader context of martial arts.

Modern Judo: Techniques of East and West by Peter Seisenbacher, George Kerr
A very well done analysis of modern competitive Judo, including training tips and techniques, balanced with thoughts about traditional Judo.

Moves by Douglas C. Horn

Olympic Judo by Nicolas Soames and Roy Inman
This 1990 book covers the development of Judo in the Olympics from 1964 to 1988.

Osaekomi by Katsuhiko Kashiwazaki
This 1981 world champion and matwork specialist produced the most comprehensive survey of Judo pinning techniques ever undertaken. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Osotogari by Yasuhiro Yamashita
One of the Judo Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US. In teaching this technique, World and Olympic champion Yamashita emphasizes the importance of good style, while acknowledging the special demands of competition.

The Overlook Martial Arts Reader: Classic Writings on Philosophy and Technique by Randy F. Nelson (Editor)
This anthology presents, in the words of the masters, the basic philosophies behind each martial arts discipline. Includes an excellent article by Jigoro Kano.

Passing the Guard: Details and Techniques by Ed Beneville, Tim Cartmell
A very detailed review of how to get around the legs of an opponent on the ground. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu manual that is very helpful for Judo students who want to excel in matwork.

The Pyjama Game: A Journey into Judo by Mark Law
A wonderful book for everyone. For a full review see the discussion on the Judo Forum. Available as a hardcover UK edition or a paperback.

Pick-ups by Robert van de Walle
One of the Judo Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US. The author, a 1980 Olympic champion, covers the techniques morote-gari, sukui-nage, ura-nage and kata-guruma, and a number of miscellaneous pick ups including obi-tori-ashi-dori, mawari-ashi-dori and hikoki-nage. Essential study guide for anyone involved in modern competition.

Rain Fall by Barry Eisler
This 2002 novel about a Judo expert and assassin living in Tokyo features several martial arts combat scenes involving grappling.

Russian Judo by Alexander Iatskevich
One of the Judo Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US, this book describes the winning and unconventional methods used in Russia (and the other former Soviet Union countries), including a description of how Sambo influenced techniques.

Secrets of Combat Jujutsu and Secrets of Advanced Combat Jujutsu by D’Arcy Rahming
The first book is 192 pages and the second is 240 pages. Each is full of combat theory and techniques illustrated with clear line drawings and a few photos. Methods of defense are shown for nearly every type of attack, including weapons and multiple attackers, covering the techniques required up to first degree brown belt. The manuals are part of the Miyama Ryu system (founded in 1960) which is based on traditional Japanese jujutsu, aikido, and judo. Good books with lots of solid information to study.

The Secrets of Judo: A Text for Instructors and Students by Jiichi Watanabe and Lindy Avakian
The is an exhaustive look at the physics and physiology of Judo, revealing the secrets of why Judo techniques work and how to maximize their effect. The book is a little dated but still contains solid information.

Seoi-nage by Hidetoshi Nakanishi
An excellent examination of this powerful and popular shoulder throw. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Shimewaza by Katsuhiko Kashiwazaki
This former world champion produced the most comprehensive survey of Judo choking techniques ever undertaken. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

The Spirit of Budo by Trevor Leggett
A wonderful book on the philosophy of Judo by a renowned scholar on the subject.

The Sport of Judo As Practiced in Japan by Kiyoshi Kobayashi and Harold Sharp
An inexpensive paperback with excellent photos and descriptions of all the basic techniques. Recommended as a basic handbook for all students.

Submission Wrestling: The Martial Arts Guide to Grappling by Robert Ferguson

Tai-otoshi by Neil Adams
This former world champion gives all the secrets to his favorite throw. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Three Budo Masters by John Stevens
A very good review of the lives of the founders of Judo (Jigoro Kano), aikido (Morihei Ueshiba), and karate (Gichin Funakoshi). Interesting reading.

Tomoe-nage by Katsuhiko Kashiwazaki
An excellent examination of this powerful and popular sacrifice throw including many effective variations and follow-ups. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Tongue Fu! by Sam Horn
A manual for verbal self-defense which explains how to transform hostility, eliminate aggression, handle tormenters, control emotion, and promote harmonious conversation.

Uchimata by Hitoshi Sugai
An excellent examination of this powerful and popular tournament throw including many effective variations and follow-ups. Part of the Ippon Books Masterclass Series available from both Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion by George J. Thompson

Verbal Judo: Words for Street Survival by George J. Thompson

Winning Wrestling Moves by Mark Mysnyk, Barry Davis, Brooks Simpson, Dan Gable
This book reviews hundreds of basic to advanced moves by showing a few pictures of each critical step in conjunction with a brief discription. A comprehensive reference with plenty of ideas applicable to Judo.

Wrestling Drill Book by Dennis A. Johnson
This book is a good resource for coaches who needs drills.

Yoko-Shiho-Gatame in Judo by Jim Sheedy
This book is an in-depth analysis and instructional on Yoko-Shiho-Gatame, but it includes a lot of specific coaching information applicable to training in other judo techniques, especially newaza. Excellent reference for coaches interested in expanding their knowledge. Contact the author by email at [email protected] for purchase inquiries.

Zen Judo, A Way of Life by Brian Bagot

The Zen Stories of the Samurai by Neal Dunnigan
The warrior experience, as revealed in these traditional stories, is retold in a style that is relevant to the contemporary martial artist.

The Zen Way to the Martial Arts by Taisen Deshimaru