Hey you! Have you ever wondered how to make someone FALL for you? Well, THROW away what you’re doing, because we’ve got something that Judon’t want to miss! Don’t click on some other CCA’s preview just yet. Stay with me, and you’ll see why others fall so easily for a bunch of peoples clad in white bathrobes. If you’re still reading, well good job, we’ll let you in on some of our not-so-well-kept secrets.

#1. How to look cool in a bathrobe

It’s more than a bathrobe, actually. Called the Judogi, it is the pride of every Judoka. Don’t look cool in your bathrobe? Well you will be in a Judogi. Originating from Japan, judo is a martial art that aims to teach its students how to subdue physically larger opponents by using minimal force. When judo players spar, they grab onto the Judogis of their opponents and aim to beat each other using a judo throw. Besides throwing techniques that are applied standing up, judo also comprises pins, chokes and locks that are applied while grappling on the ground. These self-defense maneuvers will certainly come in handy when you’re in a pinch (and will surely make almost anyone fall for you)

#2 How to fall with style

As we do not provide anti-slip mats in showers… ahem, I mean, as there will be throwing in training, do expect to fall a considerable amount in Judo. Now, that may sound painful, but you could fall on your face and lose a few teeth, or you could learn how to do a breakfall and roll into safety like a ninja turtle. Now that’s style!

Breakfalls are essential to every Judoka, which is why they are the first thing every one of us had to learn and master. It ensures that the impact of the fall is reduced, making it as painless as a pat on the back. And of course, the loud sound of slapping the mat adds to the coolness meter. Furthermore, Judo does not involve any form of punching or kicking, which makes it one of the safest martial arts out there.

#3. How to get someone to fall for you

Are you ready for the biggest secret yet? Well, put on that bathrobe and join the club!

Our regular showers… I mean, trainings, are thrice weekly at the RI Gymnasium. However … before we proceed, let’s clear some things up. Trainings won’t be as easy as taking a bath. Be prepared to get down and dirty. It’s tiring. It’s challenging. It drains you out. But, at the same time, it’s rewarding.

After going through countless trainings together, after all the blood, sweat and tears, we not only grow stronger as individuals, but also, closer as a team. Other than taking away some slick Judo moves (and maybe a more aesthetic physique), you will also become more disciplined and determined, even in areas outside judo. And as long as you put in the effort, you will definitely be able to continue obtaining the excellent results RI has worked hard to achieve each year at the National Schools Judo Championship.

#4. How to get some

Fear not, chiseled abs aren’t an ABSolute necessity (after all, no one can tell in that bathrobe!), nor is the ability to do a hundred push-ups. All we ask for is some commitment, drive, and resilience, because the greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. So if you think you’ve got what it takes to be a Raffles Judoka, why not give it a try?