Trial Lesson Guide

Welcome! 
Our dojo is open to everyone. We focus on creating a safe and welcoming space where all feel comfortable training.  To maintain this positive atmosphere, we kindly ask that you keep the focus on Budo practice. Please refrain from judgmental behavior and political discussions.
New to Martial Arts?

It's completely normal to feel nervous on your first day. We all do! But take comfort in knowing the atmosphere here is friendly and supportive. Just relax, follow the lead of those around you, and you'll be settling in just fine.

Dojo vs. Gym 

A dojo emphasizes gratitude, self-discipline, and respect. This awareness begins at the door. While chatting is permitted, please keep your voice low so as not to disrupt the class. This is especially important for children, who might be naturally playful. Please help them understand the need to maintain a calmer demeanor.

Entering the Dojo

Please remove your shoes at the entrance and place them in the designated shoe bins. Only bare feet are allowed on the mat located past the sliding door. Slippers and socks are optional for use outside of the mat area.
Changing Room
Change quickly and leave your belongings neatly organized in the locker room. Turn off your phone and avoid bringing food or drinks into the changing area. Don't forget to remove your socks before entering the training area. 
On the Mat
Get ready for class and loosen up with some light stretches, your own warm-up routine, or a few minutes of meditation. While we encourage a playful atmosphere for children, they should refrain from fighting or shouting. If absolutely necessary, phones on silent are allowed on the mat.  A small towel is permitted, but please refrain from bringing food or drinks onto the mat. To minimize disruptions during training, please wait for a break in the instruction before leaving the mat to get water or use the restroom. If you need to leave class early, kindly inform the instructor beforehand.
Bowing
We begin and end each class with a bow. This bow isn't meant as a sign of humbleness, but rather as a firm handshake – a way to greet and say goodbye with respect, gratitude and appreciation.  It sets the tone for the class and creates a sense of shared purpose.
What to Wear
For your trial lesson, please wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Sweatpants, yoga pants, and a long-sleeved shirt are all good options. We recommend skipping thin T-shirts as they may not be strong enough for grabbing. Additionally, clothing with metal or zippers should be avoided to prevent any potential scratches or discomfort.
While a Karate Gi (uniform) is perfectly acceptable for your initial lesson, we recommend transitioning to a proper training suit after a few months of training. We can provide more information on acquiring the appropriate uniform when the time comes. White Judo Gi are fine.
Jewelry and Safety
Jewelry is not allowed on the mat.  Small, fixed earrings, rings, or piercings should be covered with tape.  Hair clips are also prohibited due to safety concerns.  Avoid using excessive amounts of perfume, gels, hairspray, or makeup.  Additionally, steer clear of products that might stain the mats, such as certain types of lipstick, mascara, and foundation. Long hair should be tied up in a bun.  A white or black sports hijab is perfectly acceptable.  If your Gi jacket doesn't have strings to secure it, women should wear a white or black shirt, sports bra, or T-shirt underneath.
Personal Hygiene
Maintain good personal hygiene for the comfort of yourself and others. Wear clean clothes, and ensure fresh breath and body odor are under control. Keep your fingernails and toenails clean and trimmed. On hot days or after a busy workday, feel free to freshen up before class in our designated area. We recommend bringing a small towel, deodorant, and some mints for your convenience. Optional items may include nail clippers.

Dojo Cleanliness
Maintaining a clean and healthy environment is important in Japanese martial arts.  After class, you may be asked to help clean the mats, which typically takes just a few minutes.
Restrooms
We have a unisex restroom.  Men are kindly requested to use the toilet while seated.  Please be considerate and clean the seat after use with the provided toilet cleaner. To maintain hygiene, please wear the provided toilet slippers while inside the restroom. This prevents stepping on potential splashes before entering the training area. Remember to return the slippers neatly by the toilet door after use. Note that these slippers are for restroom use only and should not be worn outside. Tip: Use the restroom before class to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Additional Information for Adults
Lesson Duration

 Trial lessons last 1.5 hours, typically from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM.  There is a break at 8:00 PM, allowing students to leave if they wish.  Those who choose to stay will participate in an additional 30 minutes of training until 8:30 PM.

Lesson Structure

 The class structure may vary depending on the student's experience level.  Generally, there is a basic level class from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, an intermediate level class from 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM (suitable for most participants), and an advanced level class from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Lesson Content  
A typical class includes approximately 5 minutes of breathing exercises, 10 minutes of warm-up, 15 minutes of basic drills (e.g., rolling, footwork), followed by 15 to 30 minutes of fundamental techniques. The final 30 minutes will gradually progress from basic to intermediate techniques. Exercises and techniques are tailored to your physical condition and skill level, guaranteeing a fun and rewarding learning experience.

We Look Forward to Welcoming You to The Dojo!