JUDO ETIQUEETE
A great myth is that there is a religious belief that goes along with Judo. This is not true. There is no religion taught with Judo. Please keep in mind that Judo came from Japan and it is a Japanese Martial Art, and it has many Japanese customs along with it. These may seem very strange to a Westerner, even ridiculous to some. The Dojo should always be a place for serious study of Judo. When you enter any Dojo you should enter with a clean mind, and pay attention to all instruction given. All students must be on their best behavior at all times in the Dojo and each student should set a high standard of discipline. The higher ranked students are expected to set an example while in the Dojo for the lower grade students to follow.
Among the traditional fixtures of a traditional Judo Dojo is a NAFUDAKAKE or name board. All the highest ranked Members of the Dojo are listed on the board according to belt rank, with the most senior ranks listed first, then moving down the board. Not many Australian Judo Dojos use this item in the Dojo because they share the space with other organisations. Also there should always be a picture of Jigoro Kano in the KAMIZA area (JOSEKI) seat of honor.
There should also be an area for all Judoka to put their thongs, shoes or slippers prior to going on the mat surface.
If you are a parent and you are sitting on the sidelines, you are not to give your children any instructions from the sidelines and at no time are you allowed to go on the mat to help instruct your child. Many instructors will ask you to leave the Dojo. When you or your child is in a class or training session, it is up to the Sensei, not you, to give instruction.
All student are to attend classes hygienically clean without strong body or mouth odour. Nails are to be clean and clipped so not to scratch others, If hair is long it is to be tied back, no watches, piecing, ring or other jewellery is to be worn.