Putin Stars in New Judo Instructional DVD

First it was fishing without a shirt, then it was shooting a Siberian tiger with a tranquilizer, and now—Vladimir Putin is back at it again, showing off his judo skills in a new instructional DVD entitled “Let’s Learn Judo with Vladimir Putin.”

Putin collaborated with judo champion Yasuhiro Yamashita to create the film, and he readily admits that, although the title bears his name, it is merely an “advertising trick” and that viewers “will be learning not from your humble servant but from real geniuses.” The film includes footage of Putin discussing the history and philosophy of Judo, as well as throwing an opponent, rolling, and performing joint-locks.

Although this is the first DVD release for Putin, this is not the first time that the Prime Minister has showcased his judo knowledge. In 2004, he coauthored Judo: History, Theory, Practice with Vasily Shestakov and Alexey Levitsky. The guide offers a complete history of the discipline, including Russia’s contributions, and includes step-by-step techniques for break-falling, throwing, and grappling. The authors also introduce the unique Russian art of combat sambo.

CLICK HERE to see a clip from Putin’s new DVD
CLICK HERE to learn more about Judo: History, Theory, Practice

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