Faq

FAQ

Frequently Asked Question

What is Judo, and how is it different from other martial arts?

Judo, which means "the gentle way," is a modern Japanese martial art and Olympic sport. Unlike striking arts like Karate, Judo focuses on throws, takedowns, and ground control (pins, joint locks, and chokeholds). Its core principle is using an opponent's balance and strength against them, making it highly effective for all body types.

What age is appropriate for a child to start Judo at Judokaa?

We offer classes for children as young as 4-6 years old. Our youth programs are age-specific, focusing on building fundamental motor skills, coordination, discipline, and confidence in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.

My child has no athletic background. Can they still do Judo?

Absolutely! Judo is an excellent way to build an athletic foundation. Our classes are designed to improve physical fitness, coordination, and balance from the ground up. We welcome students of all fitness levels and experience.

Do you offer a trial class for new students?

Yes! We encourage all prospective students to experience a free trial class. It’s a great way to meet the Sensei, see our facility, and feel the spirit of our dojo before committing. FREE trial week coupon is downloadable from our website.

Is Judo safe?

Safety is our top priority at Judokaa. All classes begin with proper warm-ups and ukemi (break-falling techniques) to teach students how to fall safely. Our instructors are certified and emphasize controlled practice in a respectful environment. While Judo is a physical contact sport, our structured progression and supervised sparring minimize the risk of injury.

What should my child or I wear to the first class?

Comfortable, athletic clothing like a t-shirt and sweatpants (without zippers or hard buttons) is perfect for the first few classes. We have a loaner Gi top for trial. Once committed, students can purchase a Judogi (the traditional Judo uniform), which is designed to withstand the rigors of training.

What are the belt ranks in Judo, and how long does it take to progress?

The journey begins with white belt and progresses through yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, and finally black belt. Progression is based on a combination of technical knowledge, demonstrated skill, time in grade, and character. The pace varies for each student, but we focus on mastery and personal growth over simply earning the next belt.

Do you focus only on sport Judo, or also on self-defense and traditional values?

Our curriculum offers a balanced approach. We teach the techniques of sport Judo for physical fitness and competition, while also emphasizing the practical self-defense applications and the traditional values at the heart of Judo: mutual respect, perseverance, honor, and self-control.

Are there opportunities for competition?

Yes. For students who are interested, Judokaa provides pathways to local, provincial, and national tournaments. Competition is optional but encouraged as a way to test skills, build confidence, and embody the spirit of Judo. Our coaches prepare competitors both physically and mentally.

What makes Judokaa Martial Arts different from other dojos?

At Judokaa, we believe in developing the whole person, both on and off the mats. Under the guidance of our experienced Sensei, you're not just learning throws—you're joining a supportive community dedicated to building character, discipline, and lifelong confidence. Our focus on individual growth within a team environment sets us apart.

How often should my child (or I) attend classes to see progress?

We recommend attending 2-3 classes per week for consistent progress. This frequency allows students to reinforce new techniques, build muscle memory, and improve their fitness effectively. Of course, even one class a week is a great start, and we see that many students who attend regularly show noticeable improvement in confidence and skill within just a few months.

Can Judo help with my child's focus and behavior at school and home?

Yes, absolutely. The discipline and structure of Judo class directly translate to improved focus and self-control in other areas of life. Students learn to listen carefully to instructions, respect authority figures (the Sensei), and persevere through challenges. Many parents report seeing enhanced concentration, respect, and responsibility in their children after they begin training with us.

What is the benefit of learning break-falls (ukemi)?

Ukemi, or the art of falling safely, is one of the most valuable and practical skills learned in Judo. It teaches students how to protect their head and body during a fall, a skill that proves beneficial in everyday life—from slipping on ice to tripping on the playground. Mastering ukemi is our first priority, as it builds the confidence to practice throws safely and is the foundation of all Judo training.