Northampton Judo Club – Dojo Etiquette & Expectations
At Northampton Judo Club, we are committed to maintaining a clean, respectful, and inclusive training environment. Please take a moment to read and follow the guidelines below carefully to ensure the wellbeing and enjoyment of everyone on the mat.
Hygiene & Safety
No Bare Feet Off the Tatami
Footwear (shoes or flip-flops) must be worn when walking between changing rooms, waiting areas, and the dojo. If you are seen barefoot off the tatami, you will be asked to sanitise your feet before stepping onto the mat. This helps prevent infections such as staph and maintains hygiene for all.
No Footwear on the Tatami
Shoes or flip-flops are strictly prohibited on the tatami at all times.
Keep Your Finger & Toe Nails Trimmed Short
Finger & toe nails must be trimmed to prevent injury to yourself & others.
Clean Judogi & Obi (belt)
A clean Judogi must be worn to class. This helps prevent infections such as staph and maintains hygiene for all.
Stay Home if You’re Unwell
If you are experiencing any symptoms—such as a cold, flu, sickness, or skin infection—do not attend training. We have members preparing for national and international competitions. Training while unwell is not a show of toughness—it puts others at risk and jeopardises their ability to train and compete.
If You Are Bleeding
If you sustain a cut or injury that causes bleeding:
Stop training immediately and notify the nearest instructor or first aider.
Do not walk across the tatami while bleeding.
The area must be cleaned and disinfected before training can continue.
Contaminated clothing must be removed or changed before returning to the mat.
These steps are essential for keeping the training space safe and sanitary.
Respect & Conduct
Booking & Arrival
All students must check in with an instructor before stepping onto the mat. If you arrive after class has started, please wait respectfully at the side of the tatami until you are invited to join.
Instructor Authority
Instructors have the right to remove any student from class if they are being disruptive, unsafe, disrespectful, or are not meeting club standards. This decision is made at the instructor’s discretion to protect the well-being of the class.
Bowing Tradition
Bowing is an essential part of Judo etiquette and shows mutual respect. Students must bow:
When entering or leaving the dojo
When stepping on or off the tatami
Before and after training with a partner
Cultural & Religious Sensitivity
If your religion prevents you from bowing, a respectful head nod is an acceptable substitute.
If your faith prohibits physical contact with the opposite sex, please inform a coach discreetly so appropriate pairings can be arranged.
Failing to show mutual respect or refusing to engage in these practices may lead to withdrawal from training, as it goes against the core values of Judo.
Uniform & Dress Code
Undergarments
All students should wear a round-necked t-shirt or rash guard under their judogi. These must be free from offensive language or imagery. Preferably, an NJC branded rash guard / t-shirt
Media & Photography
Filming & Photos
By training at NJC, you agree to be included in photos or videos taken during sessions for use in club marketing and social media. If you have any concerns, please speak to a coach beforehand.
By training at Northampton Judo Club, you agree to uphold these standards and help maintain a safe, respectful, and positive environment for everyone.
Club Rules & Code Of Conduct
Northampton Judo Club – Code of Conduct
For All Members and Connected Participants
At Northampton Judo Club (NJC), we uphold the highest standards of behaviour, respect, and integrity, both on and off the mat. This Code sets out what we expect from all members, coaches, parents, volunteers, and anyone connected with the club.
It reflects the values of the British Judo Association (BJA) and the Judo Moral Code — Courtesy, Courage, Honesty, Honour, Modesty, Respect, Self-Control, and Friendship.
This Code should guide your behaviour at all times. It doesn’t replace laws or official policies but adds a clear standard for how we treat each other, train together, and represent the sport of Judo.
General Behaviour
All members and connected participants must:
Act with honesty, fairness, and integrity.
Always respect others, regardless of background, ability, age, race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
Treat everyone with dignity — no discrimination, bullying, harassment, or abuse will be tolerated.
Observe the rules of Judo and promote them positively.
Avoid foul language, aggressive behaviour, or inappropriate conduct — in person, online, or at any event.
Preserve confidentiality and respect privacy.
Promote inclusion and equality at every opportunity.
Training & Participation
We expect everyone at NJC to:
Be punctual, prepared, and focused during sessions.
Respect coaches, officials, teammates, and opponents at all times.
Train safely and in control — excessive force, dangerous play, or recklessness has no place here.
Support the learning and progression of others — help create a positive environment.
Ask questions if unsure — learning is encouraged.
Use equipment and facilities respectfully and responsibly.
Safeguarding & Wellbeing
Prioritise the safety and welfare of children and adults at risk.
Never misuse a position of trust or power.
Maintain clear boundaries — inappropriate relationships or behaviour will not be tolerated.
Follow the British Judo Association safeguarding policies and report any concerns without delay:
📄 BJA Safeguarding Policies
Substance Use & Conduct
Never train, compete, or coach under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Do not engage in illegal activities.
Follow all anti-doping policies and avoid using prohibited substances:
UK Anti-Doping | IOC Doping Code
Social Media & Public Conduct
Use social media responsibly — never post abusive, offensive, or discriminatory content.
Don’t speak on behalf of the club or BJA without permission.
Uphold the reputation of NJC and the sport of Judo in all your actions, both in person and online.
Sporting Spirit
Be respectful in both victory and defeat — be gracious, win or lose.
Bow to each other, shake hands and thank opponents and referees after each match.
Respect officials’ decisions, even when you disagree.
Avoid arguing, shouting, or showing dissent during randori & competition.
Enjoy Judo and help others enjoy it too.
Who This Applies To
This Code applies to:
All NJC members (athletes, parents, coaches, volunteers)
Visitors to NJC events or training sessions
Those involved in representing NJC at external events
Breaches of the Code
Violations of this Code will be taken seriously and addressed fairly and proportionately. Sanctions may include:
Verbal or written warnings
Apologies for inappropriate behaviour
Temporary suspension from sessions, events, or competition
Suspension or termination of NJC or BJA membership
Everyone is responsible for upholding this Code. If you witness or experience behaviour that goes against it, please speak to a coach or NJC welfare officer immediately.
In Summary
At Northampton Judo Club, we’re proud of our standards. This Code helps us protect our values, our members, & the integrity of the sport we love.
Respect the mat. Respect each other. Represent Judo with pride.