Frequently Asked Questions

Etiquette and Hygiene

When entering and leaving the dojo, students must bow (rei). This practice is also observed at the beginning and ending of any practice in the dojo. Respect is central to a safe and productive study of Martial Arts. Students are expected to respond immediately to the instructions of the instructor leading the class. Etiquette in the dojo can be picked up easily through participation in practice session. Students are expected to keep clean and folded uniforms on a regular basis, discipline does not end when leaving the dojo. Taking care of your equipment is a must for hygiene and safety.

 

Things you will hear in class:

Dojo- Practice hall or School
Hai -Yes
Onegai shiimasu- Please
Arigato gozaimashita- Thank you very much
Seiza- sit at attention
Kiotsuke- attention
Mokuso- Meditation
Yame -stop
Ki-spirit
Rei-bow

Counting in Japanese:

Ichi 1
Ni 2
San 3
Shi (Yon) 4
Go 5
Roku 6
Shichi (Nana) 7
Hachi 8
Kyu 9
Ju 10

Uniforms:

Judo/Jujitsu: Gi (Jacket and pants) available at school

Kendo: Kendogi (Jacket and Skirt like pants) Keikogi and Hakama

Kendo Armor: Bogu (Men-helmet) (Do-chest) (Kote-gloves) (Tare-leg and groin)

Kendo Swords: Shinai-Bamboo practice sword------Bokkuto-Wooden sword

 

FAQ

 

Q: Does kendo hurt?

A: Kendo armor (bogu) is designed for its purpose and injury is quite rare.

Q: Will I have to buy my own equipment?

A: Yes, the school has some equipment but you will need your own at some point. We have equipment for sale or visit a retailer in our links.

Q:What is the English translation or the meaning of the word Judo?

A:Gentle Way

Q:Who created Judo?

The father of Judo is Professor Jigoro Kano (1860-1938). He studied jujutsu at an early age and founded the Kodokan to teach the art of Judo.

Q:How old is Jujutsu?

A:No one knows for sure. We only know that it was systematized by the Samurai warrior as early as the mid 15th century.

Q: Do I need equipment when I start?

A: No, come in comfortable cloths to work out in

Q: Are there any club fees or dues?

A: Yes, the school has a monthly fee. Please visit our location for pricing

Q: How do I get promoted in rank?

A: Judo/Jujutsu are promoted in class under the guidance of Park Sensei. Kendo promotion test are held every few months by kendo federations.

Q:What are some of the working principles of Judo?

A:The use of balance and off-balancing. The use of leverage to achieve greater power. Taking advantage of the opponent’s strength. Taking advantage of the opponent’s weaknesses. The value of yielding and giving way. The proper application of timing, momentum and force

Q: How do you know ranks?

Judo/Jujutsu have a colored belt system. Kendo has no outward sign of rank displayed, students line up in order with the higher ranking students to the left of the lower ranking students.

Q: What are the folds on a Hakama?

A: Each of the pleats on the hakama symbolizes a valued virtue. The five pleats in the front are representative of the "Five Fundamental Knowledge" of "Jin" (mercy), "Gi" (righteousness), "Rei" (etiquette), "Chi" (intelligence), and "Shin" (trust). The pleats in the back represents "Chu" (loyalty), and "Koh" (filial piety).

keiko-gi, hakama and Judo/Jujutsu Gi should be worn properly for practice and folded properly when not in use.