COMMON QUESTIONS
What will I do during a typical judo class?
At our classes we do training exercises to improve balance, coordination and build the foundation of skills necessary to be successful at Judo techniques. We also do Technical instruction in both standing and ground fighting techniques and free-form practice known as Randori.
Is judo safe?
Judo is very safe. Studies have shown that the overall injury rate for Judo is lower than that of other contact sports such as hockey and lacrosse. Most injuries in Judo are minor in nature, with minor strains and bruises being the most common, and sprains and breaks being extremely rare occurrences. Like any contact sport, Judoka will sometimes get minor bumps and bruises, or feel “squished”. All Judo training activities are appropriate for the age and physical fitness level of the Judoka.
What other fees can I expect to pay in addition to the Ottawa Judo Club membership fee?
Costs associated with Judo training are very moderate compared to many other sports. All Membership in Judo Ontario is purchased directly from their web site. Membership in Judo Ontario provides many important benefits; in addition to supporting the development of Provincial, National and Olympic team athletes, Judo Ontario provides supplementary insurance in the case of accidental injury at any sanctioned event.
Each student must purchase a Judo uniform or “judogi”. Due to the stress put on the judogi from the throwing and grappling techniques in Judo, the uniform is typically heavier than the uniform for many other martial arts. These may be purchased at a discounted rate through the club and typically range between $60 (young child) to $80 (adult) depending on size and quality. Over time, depending on the number of classes attended per week, students may wish to purchase two or more judogis to ensure that they can always arrive at class with a clean, presentable judogi.
A small fee, typically around $30 to $50, is charged at each belt grading depending the belt level you are grading to.
Finally, judoka who wish to participate in competitions beyond the local level will be required to pay for their travel, food and accommodations while attending tournaments.
How often will I be graded to a new belt level?
Belt gradings will be announced by e-mail and updated. All U15 judoka will be graded according to the “half-belt” syllabus. All judoka aged 16 and over will be graded to full belts only.