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Extra-curricular activities

Find advice on the best extra curricular activities in secondary schools and primary schools here.

Original poster

Is Judo suitable for kids or too violent?

13 replies

NeedSleepNow · 12/05/2018 08:12

My son has been getting into trouble at school a bit recently (play fighting) and is having some issues with anger and low self esteem. My husband thought taking him to a martial arts class might help him with his confidence and that the discipline of it would teach him that there are acceptable times for it and that school is not one of them. He suggested boxing which I have said no to as I think it is a horrible sport for a child. His next suggestion is Judo but don't really know much about it. It seems more child friendly though.

What are people's opinions on judo for kids (my son is 8)

OP posts:
The3 · 12/05/2018 17:30

Good idea. Strong on discipline and respect. No arm/leg locks or choke holds at junior level (before 16). Relatively safe. I’ve seen a couple of concussions and a broken leg at county and national level kids competitions but it’s no worse than football.

Kutik73 · 14/05/2018 12:04

Judo is brilliant and you can start 4-5 years old so 8 years old is old enough. My DS does Kendo which is also great for discipline and respect.

MeanTangerine · 14/05/2018 12:10

The word 'judo' actually means 'the gentle way'. It was designed as a sport, based on a martial system. It's intended to provide all the benefits of martial arts study but without punching/kicking/other offensive strikes.

Judo culture is all about respect/confidence/self control/not hurting people. If you find a reputable club it is a great choice for kids or adults.

Finding a reputable club is the important part. Google "how to spot a mcdojo" for some good tips and make sure that the organisations the club is affiliated to are the proper ones. Beware any club that expects you to pay for months of classes at a time or tries to sell you club brand merchandise.

MeanTangerine · 14/05/2018 12:12

Oh, and if the club can't lend you a gi (judo suit) then buy one off eBay.

ErrolTheDragon · 14/05/2018 12:14

Or karate? This is non-contact at beginner levels so might be safer if your DS has anger issues. (Also I know an orthopaedic surgeon who was very happy for his DS to do karate but not judo, based on injuries he'd seen from the latter but none at all from karate )

But in general, yes, a martial art could be a very good idea.

Kutik73 · 14/05/2018 12:26

Good point, ErrolThe Dragon. Judo also often causes misshapen ear...

Flatdilemma · 14/05/2018 12:28

As above Judo is 'The gentle way'.
Research a good club but it will teach control and etiquette and bags of discipline.
Throwing is done in a controlled and safe manner and you are taught how to land properly.
A good club will not allow chokes and holds to be done under 16 and decent clubs do kata which can include swords (it's a demonstration almost like a routine not against anyone so don't worry!)
Many clubs will learn basic Japanese too.
I will agree with someone above though that as a black belt who trained at a time few girls did my joints are knackered from having to lift people bigger than me. Shouldn't be as bad now.
That said all my karate mates have knackered knees too.

Original poster
NeedSleepNow · 14/05/2018 12:32

That's really helpful and puts my mind at ease. Thanks all Smile

OP posts:
Socksey · 22/05/2018 12:53

Judo is great for kids... one of the particular reasons I like it is that there isn't much dangerous that can translate to the playground.... no kicking, punching, chokes or locks in the junior grades... the instructor usually emphasises the no judo in the playground thing... as do karate instructors...
There is usually plenty of opportunity for competition, so that's a great outlet for them.

BlueAnemone · 22/05/2018 13:12

I recommend judo, if you can find a good coach. My son started at one club which seemed good on paper but the coach could be inconsistent in applying the rules. The new club has coaches that I'm happier with. A good club should offer a trial class. Look out for how well the coaches follow the judo moral code :

The Judo Moral Code is a set of ethics created by the sport's founder Jigoro Kano. He believed they were vital in the development of judo players and individuals both on and off the mat. The code itself is made up of 8 parts: Courtesy, Courage, Honesty, Honour, Modesty, Respect, Self-Control and Friendship.

SurreyDadV · 22/05/2018 13:27

As a Judo instructor, I'm happy to answer any questions you have OP (or anybody!), feel free to PM me.

As has been said, a GOOD club will offer a free lesson, and allow you to stay and watch for a couple (I do.)

My advice would be to DEFINIETLY watch a few sessions. Speak to the other parents, watch how the students are treated, are they having fun, or just constantly being shouted at etc etc.

Some Judo clubs are VERY competition oriented, and that doesn't suit everyone, so be prepared to visit a couple.

Try different organiasations as well. There are several Judo governing bodies, such as the British Judo Association (BJA), Amature Judo Association (ALA), and associations that cover more thatn one martial art, such as the Bushido Za-Zen International Society (BZZ).

HTH!

SurreyDadV · 22/05/2018 13:32

Sorry Amateur Judo Association.. :(

Oblomov18 · 22/05/2018 13:53

Violent? Good God no! Ds1 has done Karate and Judo. Both fab.

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