What to expect at your first training.

01

Before you come

The first two trainings are free and without commitment. No need to call ahead, no form. Just show up.

If it's convenient, you can drop us an email or call so we know who to expect — but it isn't required.

02

What to bring

• Loose sportswear — sweatpants, t-shirt, hoodie to change into. No jeans, nothing with metal buttons or zips (these endanger your partner).
• Bare feet. Shoes are removed before entering the dojo — judo is practiced barefoot on the tatami.
• A water bottle. Training is intense, thirst will come.
• No jewellery. Rings, chains, watches and piercings stay home — for your safety and your partner's.
• Short nails. A scratched partner isn't judo.

A judogi (judo kimono) is purchased after the first month, once you confirm interest. We'll help pick the right size.

03

Arriving at the dojo

• Arrive 15 minutes before training starts — you have time to change and orient yourself.
• Greet the coach, give your name and age. The coach will introduce you to the group.
• Before stepping onto the tatami we bow. The bow is a greeting to the place where we learn — not formality. A slight nod of the head is enough.
• Shoes stay at the entrance, lined up neatly.

04

What a training looks like

• Warm-up (10–15 min) — stretching, coordination, light running, rolls.
• Falls (ukemi) — our first technique. We teach you to fall safely before anything else. This skill stays with you for life.
• Technique — demonstration and practice of a specific throw or hold. We work in pairs, repeat, correct.
• Application — if you already have a base, randori (free practice) at limited pace.
• Closing — stretching, bow, thanks together.

05

Dojo etiquette — five rules

1. We bow. Entering, leaving, before and after partner practice.
2. We listen. When the coach speaks, we focus. Questions are always welcome — after the explanation.
3. We help our partner. The opponent on the tatami is not an enemy — they are a partner in learning. Without them, you cannot improve.
4. We train safely. Strength does not make you better. Technique does. Slow and precise > fast and rough.
5. Quiet in the dojo. No noise, no phone on the tatami, no unnecessary drama. Concentration is part of practice.

06

Your first impression doesn't have to be perfect

No one expects you to do a roll or seoi-nage after your first training. The goal of the first training is to know whether you enjoy judo. Nothing more.

Tiredness is normal. Sore muscles the next day are normal. Fear of falling is normal — and it goes away soon. We've all been through it.

07

Questions?

Call or write — we'll gladly answer anything.