Joining Aireborough & Wharfedale Judo Club

How do I join the Judo Club?

It couldn't be easier to join the club. All you need to do is turn up! Come along to one of our sessions and you can have a go there and then. There's no waiting list and no joining fee.

Is there a class specifically for beginners?

We don't run specific beginners classes but new starters are taken to one side and shown the basic techniques before joining in with the rest of the class. Even when you do join in with the rest of the class, everyone is very patient with beginners and will make sure you're happy.

If I join, do I have to attend both the Monday and Thursday sessions?

No. You can come as often or as little as you like. There is no commitment for you to attend every session.

I'm not sure if I want to have a go - can I just watch?

Yes. You will be made very welcome and you can watch the session and see what it's all about. There will be plenty of people around to answer any questions you have.

Do I need to have a Judo kit?

Not at first. We do have a few spare kits that you can borrow until you make a decision about whether you want to continue doing Judo but it's a good idea to wear something old that you don't mind getting pulled around - ideally with long sleeves and long trousers.

I have an old kit from when I did another martial art - can I wear that?

It's not advisable. Judo is a sport involving lots of pulling and grappling so Judo kits are made of extremely heavy duty material. Kits from other martial arts will rip if used for Judo.

What age can juniors join?

We take juniors from age 7 although they will not be able to enter any competitions or promotion exams until age 8.

How much do the sessions cost?

The sessions are £4.00 for adults and £2.50 for juniors. If there is more than 1 junior from the same family wishing to take part then it's £4.50 for 2 juniors and £6.50 for 3 juniors.

I haven't done any exercise for a while, do you have to be fit?

Judo is a very physical sport so obviously it helps if you are fairly fit but if you're not, don't worry, Judo is a great way to get fit. If you decide part way through a session that you need a rest then that's fine - our sessions are very informal and you can do as much or as little as you are comfortable with.