“The hardest thing about Judo is walking through the door.”
-O Sensei

Some say the first thing you need for Judo is a Judogi.  You will need a Judogi to do Judo, but the first thing you really need is to come in, introduce yourself, and observe a practice.  This will give you a better idea of what to expect and will let us know you are interested!

Basic etiquette and expectations will be explained during class; we are not expecting you to come in and bow perfectly.  During your first few practices, you will learn one thing almost exclusively:  Ukemi (breakfalling).  Good Ukemi does not mean shrugging off pain, it means knowing how to absorb a fall without being hurt or injured.  This is an absolute necessity for any further Judo instruction, as it will keep you safe and your body in good repair.

For further information, Bellerud Sensei has provided Seiwakan with a beginner’s manual.  No you don’t need to read this before coming to your first practice.  However, it will likely help you to review information after practices and explain a lot of reasons why we as Judoka do the things we do, from tying a belt to bowing in and out.  There is also good information in this manual for non-beginners as well, especially if you want to read up on a little bit of Judo history.

Because judo originates in Japan, judo instructors use Japanese words during class. Learning judo terms is an important part of learning judo. When students have mastery of the terminology used in judo classes they can go to any other club or tournament with confidence. Instructors will teach term in classes. This glossary can be used as an excellent study guide for students who wish to practice at home.