Seiki-Juku
True Spirit Judo
Our school is the Anglo Japanese Ju-jutsu & Judo Association (AJJJA). The name Seiki-Juku means “True Spirit”, reflecting the values of sincerity, discipline, and dedication that guide our training.
The word Judo comes from two Japanese characters: “ju” (柔) meaning gentle or supple, and “do” (道) meaning way or path. Together, Judo translates to “The Gentle Way”, representing the principle of using balance, timing, and an opponent’s force efficiently rather than opposing it directly.
The term Ju-jutsu comes from the characters “ju” (柔) meaning gentle or yielding, and “jutsu” (術) meaning art or technique. Ju-jutsu therefore means “The Gentle Art”, referring to a comprehensive system of self-defence techniques including throws, joint locks, strikes, and control methods developed to overcome a stronger opponent through skill, leverage, and precision.
After entering our school, each student is expected to train with dedication, discipline, and respect so that their technique becomes refined and effective. A student within our group must develop not only physical strength, balance, and coordination, but also cultivate mental discipline, patience, and clear judgement.
Through the study of Judo, students learn the principles of maximum efficiency with minimum effort and mutual welfare and benefit, applying skill, timing, and control to overcome resistance. Through the study of Ju-jutsu, students learn practical self-defence, adaptability, and the ability to respond effectively to a variety of situations using technique rather than brute force.
Together, these arts develop both body and mind. By continual and sincere training, students build confidence, discipline, and strength of character so that no challenge may ever over-awe them.
Judo & Ju-Jutsu Philosophy
Classical Judo and Ju-Jutsu are, first and foremost, systems of self-defence. Through their practice the student learns how to control an opponent using balance, timing, and technique rather than brute strength. These arts were developed so that the practitioner may defend themselves or those around them when necessary. However, through continuous and disciplined training the student also develops a strong moral character, self-control, and respect for others. The deeper meaning of Judo and Ju-Jutsu can only truly be understood through sustained and sincere practice on the mat.
While contests and competitions may exist within the modern practice of Judo, they should never overshadow the true purpose of training. A real confrontation carries the risk of serious injury, and therefore competitive matches are only a controlled and limited expression of the art. The primary aim of our training remains the improvement of technique, discipline, and character. Teachers and students alike must devote themselves to mutual development and the spirit of cooperation. Nevertheless, those students who wish to test their courage, skill, and composure through competition are encouraged to do so within the proper spirit of the art.
A school with excessive numbers makes it difficult for instructors to provide the individual guidance necessary for true progress. For this reason, our school maintains a policy of controlled growth. Careful consideration is given to those who wish to teach, and to students who aspire to progress beyond the Kyu grades. This careful approach ensures that standards remain high and that the traditions and technical quality of the school are preserved. The strength of our school lies not in the number of its members, but in the quality of its training, its instruction, and the character of its students.
