Frequently asked questions
How do I join?
Registration is done thru the City of Santa Rosa Parks and Rec. This can be done 2 ways.
1) via website:
https://srcity.org/2804/Register-for-an-Activity
2) via phone:
(707) 543-3737, ext. 3
*late registration for a class already in session must be done via phone.
Do I have to be in good shape before I start?
No, you will get into shape as you train. We have a series of exercises that you will learn as you progress through the ranking system which will enable you to perform the self defense techniques.
I am 31 years old, am I too old to start martial arts?
No. Many people see their everyday battles not against an opponent but rather against a freshly polished floor, wet driveway, childs toy, bathroom shower, or uneven pavement. The first thing taught and learned in Judo is the ability to fall and fall safely. This one pivitol skill is not just something adults can learn but something that they should learn.
What is the difference between Judo and BJJ?
Judo focuses on throws and incorporates a running clock into grappling while BJJ is almost entirely grappling. Grappling in Judo requires progress. If no progress is being made both judo players are returned to a standing position. In Judo it is possible to score an instant win via throw (takedown which lands the opponent directly on their back with speed power and control). An intresting note is that Helio Gracie (the man creditied with the founding of BJJ) did so after his Judo training proved to be more successful in grappling than in standing with his larger brothers. This exclusive focus on judo grappling is what birthed Brazillian JiuJitsu.
What are the ranks in Judo
Adult Judo recognizes 7 kyu grades (colored belts including white) and 10 dan grades (black belts). The USJA symbolizes these colors and belts as follows
Beginner: White
Rokyu (6th kyu) : Yellow
Gokyu (5th kyu) : Orange
Sankyu (3rd kyu) : Brown
Nikyu (2nd kyu) : Brown
Iikyu (1st kyu) : Brown
Shodan (1st dan) : Black
How long does it take to get a black belt?
Usually about one thousand hours of practice. For most this is in the range of 5 years but can be achived much faster or slower depending on the number of hours practiced each week.
What will I learn?
Judo is a martial art that focuses on Throws and Grappling. So the short answer is throws and grappling. The long answer is a bit harder. Nearly all judoka (judo practitioners do judo for various reasons and when asked this simple question you can get a range of answers from self defense to balance to respect to disipline to sportsmanship.