Getting involved in Judo is easy – all you need to do is find a Judo club nearby and you’re well on your way! The first step is to get in touch with the British Judo Association, either by visiting their website and sending their contact an email, or by giving them a call. The Association Head Office keeps a list of registered clubs within the UK and maintains a register of qualified Judo coaches, so they can ensure you are looked after by the right people.
Once you have found a club you are happy with, you may need to buy a Judo suit (Judogi), and possibly some slippers (Zori) that are used to walk to and from the mats. Many clubs will sell second-hand Judo suits, but you may also find them in sports retailers. If you want to practice at home you should also consider investing in a Judo mat as this is handy for cushioning falls.
There are several levels within Judo and anyone can start – no matter the age. The beginner or junior grade is ‘Mon’, the senior grade ‘Kyu’, and the expert or black belt grade ‘Dan’. It is important to note that whilst anyone of any age can learn Judo, the British Judo Association discourages those under the age of eight from competing.
Finally, if you are serious about Judo and will be planning on competing or undergoing tests to progress through the grades, you will also need to organise a licence which allows you to have insurance in case of any accidents. Most clubs will require this of any serious students, and the British Judo Association strongly recommends that all students have a licence.
Once you have found a club you are happy with, you may need to buy a Judo suit (Judogi), and possibly some slippers (Zori) that are used to walk to and from the mats. Many clubs will sell second-hand Judo suits, but you may also find them in sports retailers. If you want to practice at home you should also consider investing in a Judo mat as this is handy for cushioning falls.
There are several levels within Judo and anyone can start – no matter the age. The beginner or junior grade is ‘Mon’, the senior grade ‘Kyu’, and the expert or black belt grade ‘Dan’. It is important to note that whilst anyone of any age can learn Judo, the British Judo Association discourages those under the age of eight from competing.
Finally, if you are serious about Judo and will be planning on competing or undergoing tests to progress through the grades, you will also need to organise a licence which allows you to have insurance in case of any accidents. Most clubs will require this of any serious students, and the British Judo Association strongly recommends that all students have a licence.