Whether you love it as a sport or think of it as a wonderful exercise, Judo is coming on strong as one of the most popular events in the world. For those in the U.K., the British Judo Association offers some of the finest membership perks in the world.
What is Judo?
Judo is a form of martial arts that improves the fitness levels of those who partake of it. It is perfect for those of any age and inspires confidence in those who practice it. It was developed in Japan at the end of the 19th century by Dr Jigoro Kano. It has since become one of the most popular sports in the world.
More than a sport, it is also a form of exercise. Many use it as a form of cardio training and to improve their flexibility. It enhances both the physical and the mental reaction time. Many of the participants reach a certain mental clarity similar to the Buddhist state of Zen. Regardless of sex, skill level, or age, Judo’s grading system ensures a fair and reasonable goal; making it far for everyone who joins.
What is the British Judo Association?
The British Judo Association is a Governing Body that is nationwide. It is for the sport of Judo in Great Britain. The BJA is one of the most well respected sporting associations in regards to what it offers their members. It provides the World of Judo magazine, reduced travel insurance, the British Judo newsletter (put out bi monthly), and one of the best insurance policies of any sports authorities. Each member of the nearly 1,000 judo clubs registered gets a 10 million pound public liability insurance polity. It includes all activities that the clubs organize. This is especially useful for tournaments and exhibitions.
The British Judo Association is a member of The British Olympic Association, the International Judo Federation, The European Judo Union, the Commonwealth Judo Association and the Commonwealth Games Council. A British Judo Association membership is recognized around the world.
Memberships offered by British Judo Association
The British Judo Association offers individual judo trainees membership as well as clubs. For those individuals wanting membership they offer the Kano club for 5-8 yr. olds for 15 pounds per year. Junior memberships are offered for 8-15 yr. olds is 17 pounds per year. It includes a reduced subscription rate to The World of Judo magazine. Senior memberships are offered for those who are 16 yr. old are 26 pounds per year. It too includes a reduced membership to The World of Judo magazine. There are some in judo who no longer compete but still would like a BJA membership; to those there is a Recreational membership, offered at 14 pounds per year.
For a club to join the BJA you must send a completed club membership application form in with a personal disclosure form, and a copy of the club’s constitution. All of these forms are on their website (www.britishjudo.org.uk). Send those in with a fee of 50 pounds. They will then send the forms to the BJA Area committee for approval or denial. This should take no longer than two months time.
How to contact the BJA:
British Judo Association
Suite B
Loughborough Technology Centre
Epinal Way
Loughborough LE11 3GE
Tel: 01509 631670
Fax: 01509 631680
bja@britishjudo.org.uk
