Question 1

What is Judo?

Accepted Answer

Judo is a close quarters, physical martial art that uses movement, power and balance to throw other judoka to the floor and follow that with the application of groundholds or submittion techniques.

Question 2

Do I have to be in good shape before I start?

Accepted Answer

No, you will get into shape as you train.

Question 3

Am I too old to start martial arts?

Accepted Answer

No, you are not too old to begin martial arts training. Students can start anywhere, from a young age through to their 50's and in a few cases, older!

Question 4

How is Judo different from other martial arts?

Accepted Answer

Judo literally translates to 'the way of gentleness' but was originally used by Samurai in Japan.
Modern judo has been adapted over the years to be practised safely and without hurting opponents. Judo simply involves two judoka who, by gripping the gi, use balance, power and movement to throw the other, hold them on the floor (by using groundholds) or submit. Judo does not involve kicking, punching or striking techniques of any kind.

Question 5

Do I have to register my hands when I become a black belt?

Accepted Answer

No, that is an urban myth. Martial Artists are not required to register their hands.

Question 6

What belt do I start at?

Accepted Answer

For primary judoka (age 4 - 7) you start on a white belt and will earn red strips before moving onto a red belt which older children will start on. For Senior's (over 18s), you also start on a white belt however will progress straight on to the next belt.

Question 7

How long does it take to get a black belt?

Accepted Answer

For younger judoka, it could take many years of training as we slowly expand their knowledge before becoming a black belt. Judoka who start as an early teen will find they climb through the junior grades much faster before obtaining their junior black belt. Starting as a senior (over 18) could see you take 7 years to become a 1st Dan black belt.

Question 8

What should I wear to my first session?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable clothing that does not have any zips. Preferably a t-shirt and track suit bottoms.

Question 9

How do I progress in Judo?

Accepted Answer

Progression through the belts is done at gradings. We grade twice a year in June and December where judoka will be assessed on their knowledge and technical ability, as well as effort, enthusiasm and attitude towards their training. Grades are awarded based on a judoka fulfilling their potential rather than a fixed standard of ability to be achieved.