1. What is Judo?
Judo is an unarmed martial art that originated in Japan as a means of self-defense. It emphasizes controlling an opponent by turning their attacking force against them. Read more about Judo here.
2. How did Kayahara get started
The club was founded in 1975 by Mr. Murray Kayahara who believed that the etiquette, discipline, and sportsmanship of Judo help build character in the youth of today. After his death in 1983, Sensei Mike continued the legacy of the club and began teaching judo. You can read more about the club’s history here.
3. Can I participate?
Generally speaking, Kayahara accepts children over the age of 6. You do not have to have any prior experience in order to participate. If you wear glasses, you may want to bring them in order to watch the demonstrations if needed, otherwise, they should be removed during practice and sparring.
4. What should I expect in class
When you arrive you will attend the mat, remove your footwear and before getting on the mat you will bow (rei) toward the mat. During the time before class begins, you should spend this time warming up and practicing. Horseplay is always discouraged. When the Sensei is ready to begin the class you will hear him call “line up!”. Students are then required form a straight line according to rank, shoulder-to-shoulder opposite the Sensei and remain quiet. You will hear several Japanese words in which you will respond with an action. The first time, everyone will kneel, come to attention and bow. The Sensei will then turn toward the opposite wall and you will again come to attention while kneeling and bow. At this point, the classes will follow this pattern: warm up, breakfall practice (ukemi), judo instruction + practice, “back-to-back groundwork free practice, and standing free practice (randori). At the end of the class, you will line up again so the class can formally bow out. After the second bow, the Sensei will stand first followed by the higher rank judoka’s. Do not stand until the person on your right has stood up as this is a sign of respect for those who have achieved a higher rank than yourself.
5. How can I register
In order to participate in class, you will need to complete a liability form. In addition, all members must be registered with Judo Ontario. You can find both forms here, or you can fill them out at the dojo.
6. Where can I get a uniform?
We have judogi’s available at the dojo and are available at cost. If you are trying the class for the first time, we do have judogi’s for you to borrow. Of course, you may choose to bring your own or purchase elsewhere.
7. Do I need to have insurance? Is judo safe?
While we don’t expect any injuries, no sport excludes the possibility of injury. Students are required to have a membership with Judo Ontario which includes accident insurance. The best ward against injuries is prevention. Participating in a proper warm up session, applying common sense, and listening to instructors will prevent most injuries from occurring.
8. What is the proper way to wear and tie a gi?
The judogi consists of drawstring pants, a jacket, and a belt. The pants are tightened when you pull the drawstrings out and thread them through the front loop, then tied. The jacket is worn by putting the left lapel over the right. Watch this video to see how to tie your belt.
9. What is the cost? Can I try a class for free?
As a non-profit organization, we are able to offer an incredible monthly rate while providing a high level of instruction. The monthly rate is $20 per person or $40 per family. You can absolutely try the class for free, just be sure to bring your completed liability form with you to class, or ask for one when you arrive.
10. Is Judo safe?
Yes, judo is very safe. All beginning judokas will learn how to fall properly (called breakfall) and are reminded to “tap out” if anything ever hurts. Instructors always supervise each class to ensure the safety of all participants.