Martial Arts University is officially recognized by USA Judo.
Kodokan Judo is a traditional Japanese martial art founded by Kano Jigoro and based on the principles of maximum efficiency and mutual welfare and benefit. Training emphasizes throwing techniques, pins, submissions, ukemi, gripping, balance-breaking, movement, timing, and controlled grappling practice. Students develop reliable skills through structured drills, randori, kata, and disciplined training guided by traditional etiquette and modern safety standards.
Judo provides a complete path for physical development, self-defense, character building, and practical grappling skill. Practitioners build balance, strength, coordination, confidence, resilience, discipline, and the ability to use leverage and timing instead of relying only on physical power.
What is Kodokan Judo?
Kodokan Judo is a Japanese grappling art and Olympic sport. It focuses on throws (nage-waza) and ground techniques (katame-waza) such as pins, chokes and armlocks.
Its central principles are "maximum efficiency, minimum effort" and "mutual welfare and benefit," meaning students learn to use an opponent’s force and to grow together through training.
History and lineage
Judo was founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882, when he opened the Kodokan in Tokyo. He drew on classical jujutsu schools, removed dangerous techniques for free practice, and created a system that could be trained at full intensity safely.
Judo became an Olympic sport in 1964 in Tokyo, and the Kodokan remains its world headquarters.
What a class looks like
Class begins with warm-ups and ukemi (break-falls), then throwing practice with a partner (uchikomi and nage-komi). Students also train ground techniques and, at appropriate levels, randori (free practice).
Who it's for
Judo is excellent for people who want effective grappling skills, a full-body workout, and confidence in staying on their feet. It is also a good path for those interested in competition.
FAQ
Is judo good for self-defense?
Yes, judo is very effective for self-defense because it teaches how to control, throw and pin an opponent with live resistance.
Will I get thrown in my first class?
No, beginners first learn how to fall safely, and throwing is introduced gradually and with control.
