Craig Markham uses his vast knowledge of judo to teach self-defense to women and children through the Take Control Self Defense Program. As a way to give back to the Tri-City community of Kitchener, Cambridge, and Waterloo, Markham also volunteers his time to teach judo to children who cannot afford to pay for classes.

Judo is considered to be a modern martial art, as it was developed in Japan in 1882. This gentle form of fighting and self-defense is viewed around the world through fitness programs, combat competitions, and as an Olympic sport. A judo practitioner, or judoka, focuses their energy toward the submission of an opponent. To do this, the judoka uses throws, strikes, chokes, and joint locks to pin their combatant. As judo has become more popular throughout the world, other versions and similar styles have been created, including Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Sambo. https://craigmarkham.wordpress.com/

The art and fighting style of judo was created by Jigoro Kano, an educator from the Shiga Prefecture. As Kano was raised in a wealthy family, he was sent to an English school at the age of fourteen to further his studies. By this age, he could already speak English and spent much time learning the texts of Confucius. Kano was not a large child, and suffered from bullying while attending the school. This strife was the impetus for the creation of modern day judo.

There are three categories of Waza, or techniques, within the philosophy of judo. Atemi Waza, the striking techniques, are only used within kata or sparring practices. Katame Waza, the grappling techniques, are concerned with the trapping and pinning of an opponent. Joint techniques and locks, strangulation techniques, and pinning techniques are all used to successfully achieve Katame Waza. Nage Waza, the throwing techniques used in judo, are focused on propelling the opponent away from the fighter. Ideally, the person completing the throw uses the opponents own body mass and momentum to vault them away to a safe distance.

Craig Markham has learned to master all of these Waza, and enjoys the opportunity to teach the youth of Ontario how to defend themselves properly.

About: Craig Markham is a former Police Constable with the Waterloo Regional Police. He has also trained in Correctional Officer work as well as the bylaws and regulations implemented by Municipal Law Enforcement Officers. For More Information Visit at :- https://www.crunchbase.com/person/craig-markham