JNZ Memebr Attends Kodokan Kan Geiko
Al Green (KOD AK) has returned to NZ from Tokyo after attending the Kodokan Kan-Geiko (Mid-Winter Training) 2026.
The practice was run for 10 consecutive days Jan 7th to Jan 16th in the early morning from 6am to 8am. The traditional training dates back to the Kodokan’s earliest days (140 odd years).The rigorous practice is held in the coldest part of the winter and at dawn and is aimed to build mental and physical discipline, resilience and focus through the intense early-morning sessions lasting several hours.
Overcoming harsh conditions forges strong character and embodies the Judo principles of Jita-Kyoei (mutual benefit) and Seiryoku (maximum efficiency). Al completed the ten days despite a fractured big toe, a minor tear to a hamstring and a bruised shin, and was awarded the Certificate of Attendance. Not everybody completed the course - generally pulling out from injury.
It wasn’t so much the dark and the cold that was the obstacle but working around the injuries and still practicing Judo - life’s lessons!
Many players had entered from various parts of the world but Al was the only New Zealander this year. Everybody mixed and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
Well done Al.
