Philosophy and Principles The aim of judo is to utilize physical and mental strength most effectively. The basic principles of judo are easy to grasp and are essential for the person studying the technique of judo. It’s perfected physical results are well worth remembering. The sport is practiced in most countries of the world and also in Olympic competition. The use of the original Japanese terminology and formal courtesies make it easy to practice in any Judo club in the world. Dr. Kano meant for his gentle way to be a way to live, a path to follow. He chose a word (do) which translates as, a road or pathway. His self-imposed restriction, that he taught what can be a violent response to provocation as instead a controlled and limited response, certifies that he sought peace and harmony in life and between human beings.
Dojo (Judo Club)
The word Dojo has many meanings, such as exercise hall, practice hall or place of learning the way.
Sensei / Teacher
Sensei includes several levels of meaning. Some martial artists equate it with "master" and Sen – saki means “formerly, previously, ahead, future.
10 things you should know about your Sensei.
1. Your sensei loves Judo. This is the reason he or she wants to practice and teach.
2. Your sensei wants to share Judo with everyone. It is a valuable gift that should be shared.
3. Your sensei knows that Judo is not easy to learn. It takes hard work and a considerable amount of time. Your sensei has been through this training and understands the commitment needed. Your sensei wants you to endeavour to be, and eventually be, better than him or her.
4. Your sensei wants the training to be safe. Because there are inherent risks in Judo practice, all students must put safety above all other short-term goals.
5. You are important to the sensei. There would be no Judo without students of all levels, and every student is important. This is part of the Judo principle of mutual welfare and benefit.
6. Your sensei can be trusted to guide your instruction. Your sensei carefully prepares lessons and will make adjustments for individual and class performance levels. However, in the beginning everything may not be clear to you, so patience is required.
7. Since your sensei wants to improve, he or she benefits from having the opportunity to practice Judo with you. One of the goals of Judo is to continuously strive to perfect yourself so that you can contribute something of value to the world. If you are having difficulty in class, or thinking of quitting, discuss it with your sensei so that he or she can learn from your point of view.
8. Your sensei wants you to study Judo outside of class. The more you read, practice, and learn on your own, the more valuable your class time will be. Keep yourself physically fit with additional conditioning outside of class.
9. Your sensei needs your help. Your class will benefit from helping other students along, caring for the mats, assisting with tournaments, etc.
10. For your sensei, Judo is a way of life.
Bowing
Bowing One of the very first items of etiquette which the Deshi (student) must learn is when they enter or leave any Dojo, they must perform a Ritsu Rei (standing bow) in and out of the Dojo.
Sitting When in any Dojo you are to remain seated in the correct Seiza (kneeling seated) unless the Sensei tells you to sit some other way.
Dojo (Judo Club)
The word Dojo has many meanings, such as exercise hall, practice hall or place of learning the way.
Sensei / Teacher
Sensei includes several levels of meaning. Some martial artists equate it with "master" and Sen – saki means “formerly, previously, ahead, future.
10 things you should know about your Sensei.
1. Your sensei loves Judo. This is the reason he or she wants to practice and teach.
2. Your sensei wants to share Judo with everyone. It is a valuable gift that should be shared.
3. Your sensei knows that Judo is not easy to learn. It takes hard work and a considerable amount of time. Your sensei has been through this training and understands the commitment needed. Your sensei wants you to endeavour to be, and eventually be, better than him or her.
4. Your sensei wants the training to be safe. Because there are inherent risks in Judo practice, all students must put safety above all other short-term goals.
5. You are important to the sensei. There would be no Judo without students of all levels, and every student is important. This is part of the Judo principle of mutual welfare and benefit.
6. Your sensei can be trusted to guide your instruction. Your sensei carefully prepares lessons and will make adjustments for individual and class performance levels. However, in the beginning everything may not be clear to you, so patience is required.
7. Since your sensei wants to improve, he or she benefits from having the opportunity to practice Judo with you. One of the goals of Judo is to continuously strive to perfect yourself so that you can contribute something of value to the world. If you are having difficulty in class, or thinking of quitting, discuss it with your sensei so that he or she can learn from your point of view.
8. Your sensei wants you to study Judo outside of class. The more you read, practice, and learn on your own, the more valuable your class time will be. Keep yourself physically fit with additional conditioning outside of class.
9. Your sensei needs your help. Your class will benefit from helping other students along, caring for the mats, assisting with tournaments, etc.
10. For your sensei, Judo is a way of life.
Bowing
Bowing One of the very first items of etiquette which the Deshi (student) must learn is when they enter or leave any Dojo, they must perform a Ritsu Rei (standing bow) in and out of the Dojo.
Sitting When in any Dojo you are to remain seated in the correct Seiza (kneeling seated) unless the Sensei tells you to sit some other way.