If you’re considering giving judo a try, here’s what the process of getting started typically looks like:
- Drop by to observe a class.
If you’ve never done judo before, we recommend visiting the dojo during one of our regular practice sessions (6:30 to 8:00 pm for juniors, 8:00 to 9:30 pm for adults) to see if it looks like something you’d like to try. Our instructors and other members will be available to answer any questions you may have at that time. - Register for a dojo membership
There is a one-time initiation fee of $25 per family, which never expires and extends to all future family members who may wish to join at a later date. There is a simple form to fill out (one for each member), which can be done in a few minutes at the dojo. - Register for a USJF membership.
All members must have a USJF membership to practice at the dojo. The annual fee is $70, and your membership is considered active as soon as you submit your application at the dojo. - Purchase a uniform.
If you do not have a judo uniform, you will need to purchase one before your first session. We have uniforms in all sizes for sale at the dojo, or you may purchase one at a local shop or online. In the latter case, please be sure that the uniform you purchase is specifically for judo and not for other martial arts. - Submit monthly tuition.
Tuition ($20 for juniors and $25 for adults) is due at the first practice session of the month, and may be submitted on a month-to-month basis or for multiple months at a time, whichever is most convenient for the student. - Step onto the mat and get started!
The fees listed in steps 2 through 6 may be submitted all at once at the dojo (check or cash only). If paying by check, it is helpful if you could submit two separate checks – one payable to Seattle Dojo for steps 2, 4, and 5, and one payable to the USJF for step 3.
The entire registration process takes about 15 minutes, including time required for the student to be fitted for a uniform. If you would like to get started on the same day that you register, it is helpful to us if you could arrive around 15 minutes early (6:15 pm for juniors, 7:45 for adults) to take care of the necessary paperwork.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask at the dojo or by e-mail/telephone.