Judo Dojo Rules for Beginners

Starting something new can feel a little daunting, but we’re here to make your first judo class at Judo Academy Northampton as welcoming and enjoyable as possible. To help you settle in and feel confident, we’ve put together a guide to the key dojo rules. These aren’t just about tradition—they’re here to keep everyone safe, focused, and respectful while learning this incredible sport.

Why Dojo Rules Matter

Judo isn’t just about throws and techniques; it’s built on a foundation of respect, discipline, and community. Our dojo rules help create an environment where everyone—whether it’s your first class or your hundredth—can feel supported and grow as a judoka.

Essential Dojo Rules to Know

Here’s what you need to keep in mind when stepping onto the tatami:

1. No Shoes on the Mat

Shoes are strictly off-limits on the tatami (training mats). They carry dirt, germs, and debris from outside, which can compromise hygiene and create an unsafe environment. In martial arts, the mats aren’t just for standing—we kneel, sit, and often end up with our faces against them during techniques or groundwork. Keeping shoes off the mat ensures the surface stays clean and safe for everyone’s health and comfort.

2. No Socks on the Mat

While socks might seem harmless, they bring their own set of problems. Socks worn throughout the day accumulate germs, sweat, and bacteria, which can transfer to the tatami and compromise its cleanliness. Additionally, socks make the mat slippery, increasing the risk of falls and injuries during practice. In Judo, proper balance and traction are essential, and bare feet ensure stability and effective movement. Training barefoot not only keeps the mats clean but also promotes safer, more focused practice.

3. No Bare Feet Off the Mat

Walking barefoot off the mat—whether it’s in hallways, changing areas, or bathrooms—brings dirt and germs back onto the tatami. This compromises the cleanliness of the training area and poses hygiene risks for everyone. To prevent this, always wear slippers or sandals when stepping off the mat. At our Judo club in Northampton, it’s common practice for everyone to leave their slippers near the edge of the tatami. This makes them easily accessible whenever you need to step off temporarily, ensuring the mats stay clean and safe without disrupting the flow of the session.

4. Bow When Entering and Leaving the Mat

Bowing is a key tradition in Judo and a sign of respect for the dojo, your training partners, and the art itself. It’s a reminder to approach training with focus, humility, and gratitude. Bowing when entering the mat shows your readiness to learn, while bowing when leaving signals your appreciation for the training session and the space.

5. Don’t Interrupt or Talk During Technique Presentation/Explanation

When the coach is demonstrating or explaining a technique, it’s essential to give them your full attention. Talking or interrupting during this time can distract others and cause important details to be missed, which could lead to confusion or unsafe practice later.

To ensure a smooth session:

• Stay quiet and focus on the coach’s instructions.
• Save any questions for after the demonstration, when the coach is more available to address them.

This rule not only helps you understand techniques better but also shows respect for the coach and your training partners.

6. No Jewellery

Jewellery, like rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, can cause injuries during practice. They can snag on your or your partner’s gi, leading to painful cuts or scratches. For example, a ring caught on fabric could injure a finger, or an earring might get torn out during close contact. Jewellery also risks being damaged or lost. For your safety and to avoid unnecessary distractions, always remove all jewellery before training.

7. No Long Nails or Toenails

Long nails might not seem like a problem until you accidentally scratch your training partner or break a nail painfully during practice. Judo involves close contact, and short, neatly trimmed nails and toenails help prevent injuries. Regularly checking and maintaining your nails shows consideration for your training partners and ensures safe practice sessions.

8. Tie Long Hair Above Ear Level

Loose hair can get in your way during training, blocking your vision or becoming a distraction. Worse, it might get caught during grappling, falling or throwing techniques, leading to accidents. By tying your hair securely above ear level, you can focus fully on your training without interruptions or safety risks.

9. Keep Your Gi Clean

Your gi (training uniform) represents not just you but also your dojo and your training partners. A clean gi prevents the spread of bacteria and ensures comfort during practice. It’s also a sign of respect—both for yourself and those you train with. Regularly washing your gi and keeping it fresh demonstrates pride in being part of the dojo.

10. Respect the Coach and Others

Respect is the cornerstone of judo. This means listening to your coach’s instructions, following their guidance, and treating your training partners with kindness and care. Judo is a cooperative sport—you’re helping each other improve—so showing respect ensures a positive and productive environment for everyone.

11. Ask the Coach Before Leaving the Mat

If you need to leave the mat during a session—for any reason—it’s important to let the coach know first. This ensures the coach is aware of your absence, avoids disrupting the flow of the class, and helps maintain safety and focus for everyone.

To let the coach know:

• Raise your hand to signal politely that you need to step away.
• Aapproach the coach when they’re not occupied with instructing or explaining a technique.

This small gesture of communication shows respect for the class structure and helps the coach manage the session smoothly.

12. Embrace Mistakes—They’re Part of Learning

No matter your belt grade or how long you’ve been training, mistakes are an inevitable—and valuable—part of judo. Whether it’s a missed grip, a failed throw, or forgetting a step in a technique, every mistake is an opportunity to grow.

At Judo Academy Northampton, we believe the dojo is a place for learning, not perfection. Everyone, from beginners to black belts, is constantly improving and refining their skills. So, don’t be afraid to make mistakes—embrace them with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

By supporting each other and staying positive, we create a dojo where everyone can thrive, grow, and enjoy the journey of Judo together.‍