What you need to know.
Try to arrive 15min prior to class, as we will require that you complete a waiver form and try to find a judo uniform that fits you for trial purposes.   Please bring sweat pant bottoms and a sweat/tee shirt in case uniforms are not available. Please ensure finger and toenails are trimmed short. Do not wear anything metal: such as jewelry, metal hair clasps, earrings, studs, or a watch on the mats. Mutual respect is a corner stone of the study of Judo.
 
What you can expect from your first class.
Depending on your experience, you will be paired up with experienced members who will introduce you to the various components of the class and a few basic techniques. You will work at a very moderate pace, regardless of your level of fitness or level of experience during the trial period. Falls, body movement and training etiquette are covered, as well as entry-level judo skills.  This will also give you a chance to get to know the instructors and make some new friends among the members.  Judo is a highly social activity.
 
What is the ethos or etiquette of Judo? 
Respect, sportsmanship, politeness, good manners, and common decency are all part of Judo.  All students of Judo are expected to train themselves in Judo Etiquette and make it part of their Judo life. In doing so, a student will eventually come to understand the full principle and spirit of Judo.

Policies of the Annex Judo Academy

Respect

1. Be respectful of others at all times.
2. Be respectful of the Dojo & mat area. Keep it clean and follow the rules
3. Please remove your shoes and place them on the carpeted area by the doorway whether you are practicing that day or not
4. Be on time for class, we understand that it is not always possible, however you must make your best effort.  If you are late, you must receive permission from a sensei to join the class.
5. Always bow at appropriate times, i.e. to your partner when starting or ending a training exercise or entering or leaving the mats.
6. No swearing or disrespectful dialog.
7. Please notify us in advance before you bring a guest to try out a class. If they already practice Judo, please let us know their rank and which dojo they currently train with.
8. Do not wear your obi (belt) around your neck or shoulders, only wear it on your waist

Safety

1. The safety of you and your training partners must always be your first priority.
2. All students must be members in good standing with Judo Ontario or equivalent provincial or national judo association.
3. Do not leave the mat without the permission of one of the sensei.
4. No activity on the mats without an instructor present.
5. No horseplay or unsafe games at any time.
6. Engage in the exercises and warm-ups before judo practice to reduce the potential for injury.
7. No metal objects, watches, jewelry, glasses, or hairpins on the mat. 
8. Do not approach the mat if you are not practicing without permission of one of the sensei.
9. Notify the instructor of any physical limitations, new or preexisting injuries. 

Hygiene

1. Wash your judo gi after each practice.
2. Keep body clean and fingernails & toenails clean and short.
3. Do not come to judo with open wounds, skin conditions, rashes, colds, flu, lice, or communicable diseases
4. No oily or greasy hair products and no makeup (it gets on the mats and stains judogi)
5. No food or drinks on the mats.  Students may keep a water bottle at the sides of the mat.
   
   

 For updates on schedule changes please visit our Monthly schedule