Judo for all ages
Our programs
Judo for every age and ability. All programs include instruction in throws, groundwork, breakfalls, and the traditions and values of Judo.
Ages 6–14
Children's Judo
Judo gives children confidence, discipline, and practical self-defence skills in a safe, structured environment. Kids develop anti-bullying resilience, learn to fall safely, and build character — all under the guidance of certified, experienced instructors. Classes focus on:
- Breakfalls (ukemi) — The most important skill in Judo. Learning to fall safely protects your child in Judo and in everyday life.
- Throws (nage-waza) — Judo's spectacular standing techniques, taught progressively from basic to advanced.
- Groundwork (ne-waza) — Pins, turnovers, and escapes taught through drills and games.
- Character development — Respect, discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship are woven into every class.
Monday & Wednesday, 6:00–7:15 PM · No experience needed
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Ages 14–17
Youth Judo
A demanding physical challenge that builds fitness, relieves stress, and develops mental toughness. Youth Judoka (practitioners) train with either the children's or adult classes depending on their experience and goals — with optional pathways to provincial and national competition.
This flexibility lets younger teens continue building skills with their peers while more advanced youth get exposure to adult-level training.
Monday & Wednesday at 6:00 PM or 7:30 PM · Train with children's or adults
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Adult Judo
Whether you're looking for practical self-defence, a full-body workout, or a welcoming community — our adult program delivers. Judo's breakfall training is also one of the most effective ways to prevent fall-related injuries at any age. Complete beginners and experienced Judoka alike are welcome. Evening classes in central Guelph, convenient for working schedules. Classes cover:
- Throwing techniques (nage-waza) — The full range of Judo's standing techniques, from fundamentals to advanced combinations.
- Groundwork (ne-waza) — Pins, chokes, and joint locks for a complete grappling skill set.
- Randori (free practice) — Live sparring where you apply what you've learned in a controlled setting.
- Competition preparation — Optional support for members who want to compete in Judo Ontario tournaments.
Monday & Wednesday, 7:30–9:00 PM · All levels welcome
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What to expect at your first class
No experience required
Most of our members started with zero martial arts background. Just show up in comfortable athletic clothing (t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms, no zippers) and we'll take care of the rest. We can lend you a Judo gi if you'd like to try one.
Learn to fall safely
The very first skill you'll learn is ukemi — how to fall without getting hurt. Breakfall training is one of the most practical self-defence skills anyone can have, and it's the foundation of safe Judo practice.
Throws, hold downs, and more
You'll be introduced to Judo's core techniques: throws and trips to bring a partner to the ground, and pins and hold downs to control them there. Everything is taught progressively and practised with a partner in a controlled, safe environment.
Train at your own pace
Our instructors give beginners individual attention so you're comfortable throughout. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to 10 Speedvale Ave E (second floor) and stick around after class to ask any questions.
Common questions
Do I need to buy a Judo gi (uniform)?
Not right away. Comfortable athletic clothing is fine to start, and we can lend you a Judo gi while you're trying out classes. When you're ready to buy your own, we sell Judogi at the club — speak with your instructor about sizing.
Is Judo safe for my child?
Like any athletic activity, Judo carries some risk of injury. However, safety is built into the sport from day one — the very first thing we teach is how to fall safely (breakfalls). Judo has a strong tradition of controlled practice, and our instructors are certified and experienced with children.
My child has no athletic experience. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Judo is for everyone. Many of our members started with zero martial arts or sports experience. We meet every student where they are.
Are classes divided by age or belt level?
Not within our children's and adult programs. In Judo, training with partners of different belt levels is an important part of learning. Higher-ranked Judoka help newer members develop, and newer members give experienced practitioners a chance to refine their technique. This principle of mutual welfare and benefit — jita kyoei — is one of the foundations of Judo.
What about competition?
Competition is entirely optional. We support members who want to compete in Judo Ontario tournaments, but there's no pressure. Many members train purely for fitness and personal development.
How are your instructors qualified?
All our instructors hold black belts in Kodokan Judo, are NCCP-certified, and have completed background checks. Our senior instructor has over 60 years of experience. We take the safety and quality of instruction seriously.