Tamayo’s Judo Rules

At Tamayo’s Judo Club, we prioritize the safety, well-being, and respect of all our members.

Adhering to proper judo etiquette and rules is essential to maintaining a harmonious and disciplined environment for effective learning and growth.

Here are fundamental etiquette guidelines and rules to ensure a safe and clean judo practice:

  1. Do not wear shoes on the mat. Bring and wear slippers off of the mat. Do not walk bare foot off of the mat. Judo mats are typically made of foam and covered with a vinyl or canvas material. However, because the mats are designed to be soft and clean, it’s important to avoid wearing shoes on the mat. Wearing shoes on the mat can damage the surface and make it less safe for judokas to practice on. Shoes can also bring in dirt and debris from outside, which can make the mat less hygienic. To avoid these problems, it’s important to remove your shoes before stepping onto the mat.
  2. Wear slippers or sandals off of the mat. Similarly, walking barefoot off of the mat can also be unhygienic, as it can spread germs and bacteria from the floor to your feet. To avoid this, you must wear slippers or sandals when walking off of the mat.
  3. Proper Judo Gi: To ensure uniformity and promote discipline in our practice and classes, we adhere to a strict dress code. Only white and blue colored judo gis are permitted, and other types of martial arts uniforms, such as bjj, karate, tae kwon do, aikido, or similar styles, are not allowed. Additionally, we kindly request that women wear undershirts or compression clothing for their comfort and safety.
  4. Proper attire: Remove any jewelry or accessories that could cause injury to you or your partner. Remove any piercings, rings, and anything else during practice.
  5. Cleanliness and Personal Hygiene: Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential for a clean and healthy practice environment. Ensure your judogi (judo uniform) is clean and odor-free. Wash your judo gi after every practice. Trim your nails and tie back long hair. Do not come to practice if you have any skin issues or rash.
  6. Bowing (Rei): Bowing is a crucial aspect of judo etiquette, symbolizing respect and humility. Bow to the mat (Shomen) upon entering and leaving the dojo, and bow to your partner before and after each practice session or match. This simple gesture sets the tone for a respectful and focused practice.
  7. Punctuality: Arrive at the dojo in good time to warm up and prepare for class. If you’re running late, wait at the edge of the mat for the instructor’s permission to join. Punctuality demonstrates respect for your instructor and fellow judokas.
  8. Respect for Instructors and Fellow Judokas: Address your instructors as “Sensei” and show them the utmost respect. Listen carefully to their instructions, and avoid interrupting or speaking while they’re teaching. Treat your fellow judokas with kindness and respect, regardless of their skill level or rank.
  9. Safety First: Your safety and that of your training partners should be your top priority. Practice with control and consideration for your partner’s well-being. If you notice any potential hazards or unsafe conditions, inform your instructor immediately.
  10. No Unauthorized Techniques: Only practice techniques that have been taught and approved by your instructor. Attempting unauthorized or dangerous techniques can lead to injury and undermine the learning process.
  11. Help and Encourage: Others Judo is a collective journey. Offer support, encouragement, and advice to your fellow judokas. Share your knowledge and experience to help others grow, and be open to learning from them as well.

By adhering to these etiquette guidelines and rules, you’ll contribute to a safe, clean, and respectful environment at Tamayo’s Judo Club, where everyone can thrive and excel in their judo journey.