Beginner’s Guide to Judo: What to Expect in Your First Class

You’ve signed up for your first judo class—congratulations! Stepping onto the tatami (training mats) is the first step to mastering this dynamic martial art. But with all the excitement, it’s natural to feel a bit nervous about what to expect. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you tie on your judo belt for the first time, so you can arrive with confidence and make the most of your first class.

What Is Judo, And Why Should You Learn It?

Judo, which means “the gentle way,” is a Japanese martial art founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882. It focuses on using your opponent's energy against them through throws, holds, and submission techniques. Unlike many other martial arts, judo prioritises balance, leverage, and technique over sheer strength, making it a great choice for all ages and body types. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, learn self-defence, or simply find a new hobby, judo offers a well-rounded experience that can benefit you both physically and mentally.

What To Wear: Your First Judo Gi

Before you head to your first class, you’ll need to sort out your attire. Our judo dojo (training hall) require you to wear a judo gi, which is a sturdy, reinforced uniform. If you don't have one yet, don’t worry—we offer loaner gis for beginners. Make sure your gi fits comfortably but snugly, as it’s meant to withstand the pulling and tugging that comes with judo throws.

For your first session, a simple t-shirt and loose athletic pants can suffice if a gi isn’t available. Be sure to remove all jewellery and accessories, tie your hair above the neck level, and trim your nails to avoid injuring yourself or others. Also, don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated!

Etiquette And Respect In The Dojo

Judo places a strong emphasis on respect and tradition. When you arrive at the dojo, you’ll notice that students bow before entering the mat area. This bow isn’t just a formality—it’s a sign of respect for the space, your instructor (sensei), and fellow students. Follow the lead of more experienced students if you’re unsure how to perform the bow or when to do it.

When you meet your sensei, address them with respect, and be open to learning from their experience. Judo classes are often structured around a sense of hierarchy, where more experienced judokas (judo practitioners) help beginners. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance; everyone started from the same place, and the dojo is a place for mutual learning.

A Typical Judo Class Structure

Understanding the structure of a judo class can help you feel more at ease. While each dojo might have its own way of conducting sessions, most classes follow a similar pattern:

1. Warm-Up:
   We start classes with a warm-up to get your muscles ready for action. Expect exercises like jogging around the mat, stretches, and some basic strength training (push-ups or sit-ups). The warm-up also includes ukemi, which is the art of falling safely—a crucial part of judo that helps prevent injuries.
2. Ukemi (Breakfalls):
   Learning how to fall properly is a core part of judo, especially since you’ll spend a lot of time being thrown to the mat. Your sensei will teach you how to absorb the impact by slapping the mat with your arm while keeping your head tucked in. Don’t worry if it feels awkward at first—ukemi is a skill that improves with practice.
3. Technique Practice:
   After warming up, the focus shifts to learning and practising throws, pins, or submission holds. As a beginner, you’ll start with foundational techniques like osoto gari (large outer reap) or kesa gatame (scarf hold). Your sensei will break down the movements, often demonstrating with a partner, so you can see how each step fits together.
4. Drilling Techniques:
   Once you understand the basics of a technique, it’s time to practise it with a partner. This part is all about repetition, allowing you to get a feel for the movements. You’ll practise both being the tori (person executing the technique) and the uke (person receiving the technique). Don’t worry if your throws aren’t perfect—your goal is to get comfortable with the motion.
5. Randori (Free Practice):
   Toward the end of class, you may participate in randori, which is sparring with a partner in a controlled environment. This is where you put the techniques you’ve learned into action. Randori can be intimidating at first, but beginners are often paired with more experienced partners who will help guide you. It’s less about winning and more about applying what you’ve learned.
6. Cool Down And Bowing Out:
   After the physical part of the class, you’ll finish with a cool down and stretches to help your muscles recover. The session usually ends with another bow as a sign of respect for your sensei and classmates. Use this time to reflect on what you learned and ask any final questions.

Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your First Class

• Listen Carefully And Ask Questions:
  Judo involves a lot of technique, so pay attention to your sensei’s instructions and ask questions if something isn’t clear. Your classmates are also a great resource—don’t be shy about seeking advice.
• Embrace The Learning Curve:
  It’s normal to struggle with the movements and terminology at first. Judo is about refining technique over time, so be patient with yourself. Focus on mastering the basics, and progress will follow.
• Partner Etiquette:
  Judo is a cooperative sport, so work with your partner to improve. Practise control when executing throws and holds, and make sure your partner is comfortable with the pace. If something hurts or doesn’t feel right, speak up immediately to prevent injuries.
• Respect Your Limits:
  Your first few sessions might be physically challenging, especially if you’re not used to grappling-based activities. It’s okay to take breaks when you need them. Over time, you’ll build the stamina and strength needed for longer sessions.

What You’ll Gain From Judo Training

As you continue with judo, you’ll find that it offers much more than just physical fitness. Here’s a glimpse of the benefits you can look forward to:

• Improved Balance And Coordination:
  Judo requires you to maintain balance while throwing or being thrown, which helps improve your overall body awareness.
• Mental Resilience:
  Judo teaches you how to stay calm under pressure, especially during randori. The discipline and focus required in judo can translate into other areas of your life.
• Self-Defence Skills:
  While judo isn’t primarily a self-defence system, the techniques you learn can be effective in real-world situations where balance and control are key.
• A Sense Of Community:
  The dojo is a place where people from all walks of life come together to learn and grow. Many beginners find that the friendships they make on the mat become one of the most rewarding aspects of their judo journey.

Your First Class: A Step Towards A Lifelong Journey

Starting judo might feel like a big leap, but remember that everyone starts as a beginner. Your first class is about getting a feel for the movements, understanding the dojo’s environment, and finding your footing on the mats. The road to mastering judo is long, but with each class, you’ll get a little closer to unlocking its depth and beauty.

So, tie on your belt, step onto the tatami, and enjoy the ride. The world of judo awaits you, and your journey has just begun!

This guide should give you a good sense of what to expect in your first judo class and set you up for a rewarding experience. With an open mind and a willingness to learn, you’ll find that judo offers a path to self-improvement, both physically and mentally.