The Jitsu Foundation uniform is know by its Japanese name 'judogi' and comprises of a re-inforced jacket, trousers and a belt. The principle being that everyone wears the same uniform and the only distinguishing markings are earned, in the form of coloured belts, hakama and black 'over-gi'.

A Jitsu Foundation badge is worn on the right upper arm. This is the only permitted badge and is a condition of grading and participation in events and courses. The Foundation badge is also an indicator of grade.

Beginners wear loose clothes, often a t-shirt and track suit trousers, however they often quickly opt to purchase a hard wearing judogi, which start at prices from approx £15. Beginners wear a white belt.

For hygiene reasons and respect for those that you train with, the judogi should be washed after each training session and folded in the correct manner to prevent creasing. Coloured belts are awarded at gradings and signify a student's position within the ranking system of The Jitsu Foundation.

The Jitsu Foundation teaches Jiu Jitsu, a contact martial art that requires the concentration and control of those who wish practice the art.

Due to the nature of any contact activity, the Foundation requires that all its members abide by a strict and logical code of conduct. This ensures a safe and happy learning environment for all.

Dojo

This is the room in which you train, it can be a village hall, sports hall, squash court, but when the mats are down the room then becomes a dojo and correct rules apply. The dojo floor is covered with reinforced mats known as tatami; used to absorb impact of falls. Footwear must not be worn on the mat.

- bow on entry and exit to the dojo
- no smoking, drinking, swearing, or inappropriate behaviour, treat the dojo as if it is someone's house and you are a guest

- shoes or zori should be worn when not on the mat

- clean feet

- short finger and toe nails
- clean judogi- remove jewelry
- ask permission stepping before onto the mat
- ask permission to leave the mat & dojo

Rei

This is the name given to the traditional Japanese bow or salutation, similar to the western shaking hands. The bow should be performed correctly. The standing bow is performed with feet together, bending forwards at the waist with alignment of neck and back, hands move down the front of the legs until the body forms approx 30 degree angle.

The kneeling bow is more formal, and is performed at the beginning and end of the training session, marking the start and finish of training.

Sensei

This term is the Japanese name for instructor. All instructors are referred to as sensei. Instructors are those that hold the rank of 1st kyu brown belt and above.

Yamae

Means stop or halt, and must be adhered to immediately for safety reasons.