THE Rising Sun School of Judo start their first lessons for junior and adults wishing to try the sport at the weekend. The new school is offering sessions specifically for beginners. They aim to teach anyone the basic techniques which are required to earn a yellow belt within a few months with a look to then advancing to competition classes

For those who are unaware of what the sport entails, it is the basic art upsetting your opponent’s balance in order to throw and land them on their back.

Judo is known for its spectacular throwing techniques but also includes numerous techniques for controlling an opponent while on the ground. It has its roots in ju-jitsu, which goes back many centuries in Japanese history and over the years the techniques have been developed and improved, making it entirely possible for a David to throw a Goliath – it frequently happens.

People practise judo for many different reasons such as exercise, self-defense, a social activity and for many practitioners judo becomes a way of life. But if you ask most people why they train, they will say because it is fun.

Judo is also a great exercise routine. It promotes flexibility, develops speed, co-ordination and promotes balanced muscular development.

Lessons will be taken by two fully qualified British Judo Association coaches. Both Ben Jones and Adrian Carre have considerable experience with teaching junior players with the latter bringing his recent experience of international competition wins to the club to help develop specific competition techniques.

Junior lessons are on Saturdays and last for one hour – 6-7-year-olds start at 9am, 8-11-year-olds start at 10.15, 12-and-overs start at 11.30.

Senior lessons are on Thursdays from 8-9.30pm.

All lessons are held at Jan’s Fitness Studio in Mont Arrive.

For more information contact Ben Jones on 07781 118 942 or Adrian Carre on 07781 117 777 or visit www.risingsunschoolofjudo.com for further details.