First Time Advice

If you just want the Summary : see Here

Introduction for new Students

A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step
(Lao Tzu, Chinese philosopher, 600 BC)

Starting any new club for the first time as a new student can be a daunting experience, let alone your first time to a martial arts club. It is not uncommon to think that the club will be full of large, intimidating and unfriendly people, or to be worried as to whether you will be good enough, you may be anxious about the crowd of people running around in their smart white suits. I promise you are not the first person to think these things, (I did once, but don't tell anyone and most martial artists are exceptionally welcoming). So, if this is your first time, have a quick read of this article and I will make sure to alleviate any concerns you may have.

First I would like to introduce myself: My name is Oliver; I am one of the tutors at Osprey Judo, and I have been doing judo for almost 30 years. I grew up in Ellington, I started judo when I was eight, and I helped to establish the Osprey Judo club over 10 years ago.

If you are unable to find the information need in these articles, please give me a call using the number on the contact page or come and talk to me during one of our sessions, my photo is on the coaches page so you can recognise me.

It's your first time - what should you expect?

In your first lesson you will receive an overview of the core concepts and fundamental skills on which judo is based on. We can then build on this foundation with additional techniques in future lessons.

Lessons always start with a warm-up: some basic stretches to limber up and reduce the risk of pulling a muscle. We will then move on to the first and most important lesson in judo: how to fall over safely (to 'breakfall'). That may sounds bizarre, however in judo we fall over a lot due to being 'thrown' and it is important that we can do so safely. This means that we do not injure ourselves and, consequently, this helps to eliminate any fear of falling. This will greatly improve your confidence and, as a result, you can train better and learn more advanced techniques.

Once you have an understanding of the breakfalls, we will teach you some basic techniques. Ultimately the techniques in judo are just very efficient ways to make your opponent 'fall over' using the minimal amount of effort. You will learn one technique to "sweep" your opponents leg, and one technique to "throw" your opponent over your hip. This may sound daunting however each technique will be broken down into a step by step process allowing you to learn at your own pace. Then once you feel comfortable you will be encouraged to practice alongside other students.

Equipment - What to wear for your first session

If you are ready to come along for your first session (remember its free) you will probably want to know what equipment you need. Fortunately, it's a short list. For your first time you can wear just joggers and a t-shirt. Please just make sure however, that they are plain and do not have any buttons/zips/sequins etc which cause injury. For the same reason it is important that any jewellery be removed before participating. Finally you will also want to bring some slip-on shoes (flip flops) for when you are off the mat and a bottle of water to make sure you stay well hydrated.

Judo needs very little in the way of equipment however it is easiest to learn when wearing a Gi (pronounced Ghee, as in glee). We have plenty of spares that you can borrow for your first few sessions if needed. Ultimately you will want to invest in a proper JudoGi if you stick with the sport. Your gi needs to be robust and durable so if you do decide to purchase your own, please seek advice from your sensei beforehand as there are many items of inferior quality available. At the very least have a read of the JudoGi Article before buying.

Can I Spectate

Naturally we would encourage everyone to participate in judo, so if your partner/child is on the mat you are more than welcome to join them! If not there is also plenty of space for seating around the outside of the mat if you wish to stay and watch however we must insist that you do not walk on the mat unless barefoot. Photographs are welcome however please check with the sensei first to ensure there are no issues (eg safeguarding).

Summary

- Just wear plain joggers and a t-shirt: we can lend you a gi
- Bring slip on footwear: only walk on the mat when barefoot
- Bring a bottle of water: stay hydrated
- Remove all jewelry: safety is important
- Enjoy yourself