Physical combat and the ETSU College of Medicine may not seem to have much common ground, but both are large parts of Dr. Brian Rowe’s life. Rowe is a professor in the Department of Physiology, and also teaches judo in the CPA. As president of Tennessee Judo Inc., he has been instructing through Johnson City Judo since moving here 27 years ago.
Action movies, along with confusion between various martial arts, have caused many common misconceptions about judo. “Judo is a sport, with rules and guidelines like any other one on one sport,” said Rowe.
“It’s practiced in more countries in the world, than even soccer. It’s been an Olympic sport since 1964,” said Rowe. The Japanese origin of the name judo means “gentle way.” Judo began in 1882, when Jigoro Kano combined what he considered to be the best techniques of various martial arts into a new discipline. Jujitsu, originally taught to samurais for taking opponents to the ground in close range combat, was utilized as the main foundation after having its most lethal aspects removed.
“With the right technique, a little guy can throw around a much bigger man,” said Rowe. Half of judo is standing throwing techniques, with the other half being groundwork submissions. There is no striking in judo. “We try to emphasize working together, and trying not cause injuries,” said Rowe.
At the most recent Tennessee State Judo Championship tournament held in Columbia on February 16, Johnson City Judo students displayed their skills. Three competitors won medals in various divisions, with Bobby Hodge earning gold, Jason Fahnle receiving silver, and Jeremy High taking bronze.
“I saw them practicing in the CPA and became interested,” said ETSU student Matt Boyle, attending his third session. “After being here, I’m starting to realize there is a lot more to it, than just brute force,” said Boyle. Although the uninitiated may find the thought of beginning to be intimidating, Boyle is not the only one who found the transition easier than he imagined.
“Easy to learn, hard to master,” said Fahnle.
Rowe was trained in his native England. He won gold and silver medals in College championships in 1976 and 1977 while attending University of South Hampton and earning his doctorate degree. Arthritic legs forced him to be less active in judo for awhile, until hip replacement surgery 3 years ago.
“I’ve been getting back, but am still somewhat limited,” said Rowe.
“He’s a good teacher,” said Fahnle. “He pushes you, but makes sure you learn from it.” Each class begins with stretching and warming up. Newer students learn the basics of groundwork and how to fall properly.
They are also learning the Japanese terminology used for throws and commands. The Gi is the garment worn in judo, and it retains its Japanese roots. Originally worn by samurais under armor in battle, it was considered to be a death shroud, so they could pass into the after life in honor if killed in battle.
Gi’s are very durable and sturdy, helping to slightly cushion the impact of throws.
Gi rental is available in the CPA, the same as most other equipment. The only requirement is a student ID. Classes meet on Monday and Wednesday nights.

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