Questions

DJJA Frequently Asked Questions

"I want to be able to defend myself!"

"I'd like to improve my mental focus!"

"I want to get in shape!"

Q: Which martial art should I study?

A: The programs at DJJA are easy to start, and great for fitness, confidence and a winning attitude! Judo and Ju-Jitsu offers a great workout. Men and women will like to learn effective self-defense in a safe and structured way. You are welcome to watch a class to help you decide! See our schedule.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Come out and observe a class. For more information on how to get started, contact us today at www.delawarejudo.net. Your life will never be the same!

Q: What is a fair monthly dues rate?

A: It depends on what the school offers. Martial arts schools in Delaware charge anywhere between $125 - $250 per month, and each school should offer benefits that justify the price. We've compared good martial arts programs around the country, and we believe a fair price for a month of training at DJJA - taking into account the convenient classes, the superb instruction, the facility, and train in Judo and Ju-Jitsu for the price of one – would be $180 per month. For a limited time, you can sign up now for less as we currently train at the PAL Center/New Castle County Adult Center. Thus, the savings go to the students. If you visit another school with a higher dues rate, ask what it is about their program that justifies the price. Take a look at www.delawarejudo.net to see specific information on how to sign up.

Q: Will I learn to defend myself?

A: YES, if you take our judo and jujitsu classes. However, don't be fooled by people who say that you can be prepared in just a few lessons. Real self-defense takes time to learn - you need awareness and tactics, and you have to get in reasonable shape. The good news is that martial arts training at DJJA will get you there safely, and with many benefits in personality and character development. Take a look at some photos at our website www.delawarejudo.net. Our students get in great shape and learn to live positive, balanced lives.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Your intro lessons are FREE! For memberships, our dues are very reasonable when you consider the extraordinary credentials of our teaching staff and the quality of our facility. Stop in to watch a class and discuss specific rates for your training. Our long-time members tell us that the confidence, calmness, and success skills they've learned while training are priceless! Contact us today at www.delawarejudo.net for more specific information on getting started.

Q: What is Jujitsu?

A: Jujitsu (also written "jujutsu" or "jiu jitsu") is a Japanese martial art that typically focuses on defense against attacks such as strikes, wrist grabs, chokes, bear hugs, and kicks. After avoiding the attack, the jujitsu practitioner applies a joint lock, strike, take down, or throw. Practice is systematic, starting with simple, safe techniques, and gradually getting more technical and advanced. However you spell it, jujitsu is useful for self-defense, great for cardio, and a terrific vehicle for personal development. At the Delaware Judo & Ju-Jitsu Association, we teach Shuri-te Ju-Jitsu. For more information on Shuri-te Ju-Jitsu visit our website at www.delawarejudo.net.

Q: How long does it take to get a black belt?

A: The answer is...it depends! There are 10 levels of black belt in Japanese martial arts - the first one is called "Shodan." The minimum required time to get to Shodan in one art can be as soon as 3 years, but most people take longer. It takes consistency, practice, and a commitment to understanding the principles of your martial art. Beware of schools that promise you a black belt in a set period of time...they are selling you a belt but not necessarily training you to be good at martial arts. It does take time. But on the way, you'll become fit and more confident, you'll make good friends, and you'll learn a host of skills that will help you succeed in life! See our Instructors page at www.delawarejudo.net for a few of our most prominent black belts.

Q: What is Judo?

A: Judo is both a martial art and an Olympic sport. It focuses on throwing and grappling. A judo match starts with the participants grasping one another’s uniforms, then attempting throws and takedowns. If one of the players is taken to the ground but is awarded less than a full point, both judoka (judo players) attempt pins, joint locks, or chokes. There is no better martial art for overall strength and balance, and judo players can become confident and very fit. At the Delaware Judo & Ju-Jitsu Association, we focus on judo as a martial art, developing good technical skills while developing character in positive ways. We also have 2 ½ inch mat floors, which makes practice safer and a lot more fun! For more about judo, contact us at www.delawarejudo.net to arrange a visit to class.

Q: How long have the DJJA instructors practiced martial arts?

A: Our chief instructor, Alexander Velazquez, started martial arts training over 43 years ago, and has studied with one of the most famous martial arts masters in Okinawa, Japan, Master Kanei Uechi, Uechi Ryu Karate. Nathan Okimura- Shihan of Newark Aikikai and Richard Hugh -Sensei, President of Delaware State Judo. R. Hugh-Sensei trained at the Philadelphia Judo Club under Japans World Champion Takahiko Ishikawa, 9th Dan. Judy Velazquez- Sensei trained at the Aston Judo Club under John Tees- Sensei. She competed and joined the United States Marine Corps to try out for their Judo team. Many of the instructors at DJJA have spent at least some time studying in Japan with recognized masters, and they are dedicated to sharing their enthusiasm with you! For more information on the DJJA instructors, visit our Instructors Page at www.delawarejudo.net

Q: What is AikiJuJutsu?

A: Aikijujutsu is a martial art that uses takedowns, throws, and joint locks to defend against attacks. The essence of Aikijujutsu is the use of the attacker's own force to disable the attack. For example, when an attacker steps forward to punch, the Aikijujutsu practitioner can pivot and redirect the force of the punch, causing the attacker to lose his or her balance. Aikijujutsu is considered an excellent martial art for learning self-discipline and how to harmonize with others. At DJJA, we teach Aikijujutsu, which is the predecessor to karate, judo, and aikido. There are many excellent self-defense applications to be found in Aikijujutsu and it is fun and rewarding to practice. For more on jujutsu, contact us at www.delawarejudo.net to arrange a visit to class.

Q: Is there a chance I will get hurt while practicing martial arts?

A: There is a SMALL chance of injury in all martial arts. The most common are small bruises from a hard grab or the kinds of aches and pains you'd get from any good workout. At DJJA, we take steps to keep you as safe as possible. We teach structured classes, warming up first, and starting with less strenuous techniques before going on to the more challenging ones. We emphasize cooperative practice, since everybody is trying to learn and improve themselves. We also have one of the best training floors in Delaware, with 2 ½ inch mats to cushion your falls, under which is to help absorb force. You can see some photos of our facility at our Gallery. While you train, you'll improve your balance, get fit, and become part of a great community of experts!

Q: What is Karate?

A: Karate is a martial art that primarily involves punching, kicking, and blocking. Practice consists of kata (forms), kihon (basic skills), randori (free practice), and kumite (sparring). It is an excellent martial art for teaching balance, distancing, and timing, and is very useful for self-defense. At the Delaware Judo & Ju-Jitsu Association, striking is taught in the jujutsu program. Although karate practitioners specialize in striking, jujitsu practitioners use striking as an adjunct skill to their takedowns and joint locks. For more on Shuri-te Jujutsu, see our Program page at our website www.delawarejudo.net.

Q: Why should I choose DJJA over another Delaware martial arts school?

A: In a few words: because we are dedicated to expertise and extraordinary character. Our instructors are highly trained and motivated to help you learn. Our facility is beautiful, and helps inspire you to look inside yourself and learn. Our mats will help keep you healthy. Our dues rates are reasonable. Our location is easy to get to. We have ample, free parking. We offer time-tested methods for helping you improve yourself, body, mind, and spirit! Contact us today at www.delawarejudo.net to visit a class!

Q: What does “traditional” martial art mean?

A: It can mean many things, some obvious and some not so obvious. A few of the major aspects of a traditional dojo include: a verifiable lineage in a recognized historical style; a respectful atmosphere; reasonable fees, and observance of basic formalities. One reason many people seek out traditional martial arts is that they are more likely to teach decorum and mutual respect. Martial artists who want to become leaders recognize the importance of the quiet confidence that only traditional martial arts training can instill. For more on this topic, visit the website at www.delawarejudo.net.

Q: Is Delaware a good place to study martial arts?

A: Yes. Delaware is a Mecca for martial arts. There are schools that teach Aikido, BJJ, Capoeira, Hapkido, Iaido, Judo, Jujitsu, Karate, Kendo, Kung Fu, MMA, Ninjutsu, Self-Defense, Tae Kwon Do, Tai Chi, Taijutsu, and Zen. However, each martial arts school in Delaware has a unique approach, with some being more traditional; some geared more for children, and some oriented toward preparing their students for competition. At the Delaware Judo & Ju-Jitsu Association, we focus on training both children and adults, including expertise in technique, focus of mind, and expansiveness of spirit. When you join DJJA, you will receive superb, lineage-based instruction in a martial art with roots in Japan. When you reach Shodan (first level of black belt), you will know that you have actually earned it, and you will be delighted with the personal growth you have experienced along the way. Your training will touch every aspect of your life in a positive way! Contact us today at www.delawarejudo.net to arrange a visit to DJJA.