Budo Conference at HUSS: Scientific Dialogue on Martial Arts

On May 16, international experts gathered at the Hungarian University of Sports Science (HUSS) to reflect together on the past, present, and future of budo. The conference provided a valuable opportunity for experience-sharing and networking.

An extraordinary event took place in the Athens Hall of the Hungarian University of Sports Science (HUSS): at the "Budo Conference 2025," international professionals explored both the scientific and practical aspects of martial arts. Organized by the Budo Group of the Department of Combat Sports within the Institute of Sport Sciences, the event brought together researchers, coaches, and sports leaders from five countries to exchange ideas and present their latest research findings.

The conference was opened with a ceremonial welcome by Hikariko Ono, Ambassador of Japan to Hungary, Professor Tamás Sterbenz, Rector of the university, and Dr János Mészáros, President of the Hungarian Karate Federation. During the concise yet rich program, 16 speakers – arriving from countries including Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania, Austria, and Japan – shared their insights on topics such as para-karate, judo, and karate.

The university’s karate research group also introduced itself, a collaborative initiative among three departments: the Centre for Sport Physiology Research, the Department of Kinesiology, and the Department of Combat Sports. A special highlight was the online participation of Professor Kantaro Matsui, Rector of the International Budo University.

In addition to the professional lectures, roundtable discussions enriched the program, held in the university’s library. These conversations, focusing on the present and future of budo, featured distinguished guests including Olympic bronze medalist judoka Krisztián Tóth, President of the Hungarian Kendo Federation Hunor Mihalik, karate pioneer Erzsébet Kozma, and national team coach Mihály Fischer.

The conference concluded with spectacular demonstrations of judo, karate, and kendo. Featured performers included five-time European Champion Olívia Kákosy, athletes from TFSE, and members of the national para-karate team. The kendo demonstration was performed by students of guest instructor Tetsushi Abe.

The event not only fostered scientific dialogue but also strengthened international ties between sports science and martial arts. Building on the insights gained, the organizers plan to publish the research findings and co-host the next Budo Conference in Brno in collaboration with Masaryk University.

Tags: judo (EN),budo (EN),karate (EN)

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