People take up judo for a wide variety of reasons - to get fit, to make friends, to learn self defence, to become more confident, to take part in a competitive sport, or just to have a great time!

Judo is a fun and safe sport suitable for people of all ages. Once you start learning judo, you find that, as your fitness levels and co-ordination improve, your confidence increases and you become more disciplined and organised.

Judo is a Japanese sport, with its own traditions and ways of doing things. Experienced judoka usually display the mannerisms and courtesy of the art in everyday life.

Different clubs display different levels of etiquette (or ground rules). However, respect for instructors and other judo players should never be compromised.

One of the ways in which we show respect to others on the mat is by bowing to each other.

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