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What should I expect?
Our training takes places in what’s called a Dojo which in Japanese terms is somewhere between a training hall and a place of worship. We expect that our students are always courteous to others, and pay attention to advice given. There’s no place for horseplay sloppiness or arrogance in the Dojo. You must always be aware that you’re training in an extremely effective art which is designed to control an opponent through the infliction of pain. Injuries in the Dojo most often occur when students fail to pay attention to the instructions or get over enthusiastic and don’t control their technique sufficiently. You should control your thoughts and emotions at all times.
Why do we bow?
The act of bowing is a gesture of trust, courtesy and respect. It is not a sign of weakness or cowardice. Bowing may seem a little unsettling at first - however part of the training of the Martial Arts is to overcome arrogance. The only reason a person would not bow is because of their own arrogance. By following the traditions and courtesies as you are shown you’ll be setting an example of true character and self-control.
When do we bow?
The standing bow is performed at the following times:
- On entering or leaving the Dojo
- On stepping on or off the mat
- When beginning to train with a chosen partner
- When leaving a training partner
What is a Sensei?
The Instructor is known as Sensei - Japanese for teacher and the Assistant Instructors are known as Sempai which means older brother/sister.
What can I expect in my first week?
Classes start with warm up and stretching exercise plus breathing exercises which become a form of meditation as you progress. You’ll learn to land safely and avoid being hit along with some basic concepts. for the first few weeks you’ll probably ache in places you didn’t think possible! This is quite normal with any new activity while your body adjusts to the new movements and reflexes. Theses aches will soon pass as you become more used to the various techniques and movements.
What should I wear?
To start with wear loose comfortable clothing: a tracksuit is ideal as long as it doesn’t have any external zips or buttons as these may injure you or someone else. Once you’ve decided to carry on training you’ll need a uniform which consist of a Gi and belt. This is a heavy white cotton jacket and drawstring trousers. These are available for £35 from your Chief Instructor.
What else will I need?
You will need a licence to train - this is a log-book of all your training and includes your insurance. (Please ask your Chief Instructor for details of the policy.)
Do I need any special equipment?
After about 3-6 months, prior to your second grading you’ll may want to invest in some sparring equipment - hand mitts, shin and instep guards. Gumshields and groinguards are optional. All equipment can be purchased through the Club.
What is a grading?
This is a test of your skills based on the syllabus for that belt. You’ll demonstrate the various techniques to the Sensei, usually working with a partner.
How often do you do gradings?
Gradings are held several times a year, depending on the readiness of the students.
What are the different belts?
The belts denote a level of skill according to the syllabus. You’ll start off with a white belt, then as you progress you’ll move through yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, brown, and finally black.
How long does it take to get a black belt?
This depends on a variety of things - how often you train, your commitment to training - you can achieve a black belt in three to four years of committed training. If you’ve done some martial arts before or show particular aptitude then you might get your black belt sooner, but it’s not just about the physical self defence. There’s also a great deal of teaching and coaching involved as you progress through the various belts.
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