




BEGINNERS

WHAT IS JUDO?
Founded by Jigoro Kano, in 1882, Judo translates as 'the gentle way.' The object of Judo is to throw your opponent flat on their back with impetus, or secure a hold down for 25 seconds. In addition, Seniors learn strangulation techniques and arm lock techniques which can also win a contest outright.
THE JUDO MORAL CODE
Courtesy Courage Friendship Honesty Honour Modesty Respect Self-Control
JUDO AT THE BUDOKWAI
The style of Judo taught at the Budokwai is based upon Kodokan Judo. For more information on the history of Judo at The Budokwai please visit the Club History section. All of the Judo techniques taught follow the prescribed syllabus laid down by the British Judo Association. Complete beginners are required to obtain a BJA licence, and attend a grading in their class.
After an initial grading, instructors will continue to track progress and encourage students to grade when considered ready to do so. The training programmes are overseen by Peter Blewett, the Chief Instructor.
CLASS STRUCTURE
Judo session begin with a thorough warm up. Proceeding this, students, or Judoka are taught according to their level; beginners how to fall properly (break falls) and the basics, through to intermediate and advanced techniques.
Students are encourages to develop supplementary training programmes which improve strength and endurance. As a result, students become more confident and energetic in their approach to life.
SENIOR JUDO
JUDO CLASSES AT BUDOKWAI
The Budokwai offers a comprehensive timetable of Judo classes for adults. We regularly run ABC - Adult Beginners Courses, as well classes for Beginners / Intermediate Judo and Advanced Judo. The latter is aimed at Judoka who are 2nd Kyu and above. The senior classes at the Budokwai cater for members’ needs and are responsive to the dynamic of the session.
Mondays:
20:00 - 21:30 General and Advanced class with Roberto Almeida. This class welcomes more experienced members who want to improve and learn new technique.
12.30 -13:30 All Levels with Kohta
Tuesdays:
18:30-19:30 Beginners class with Jacqui Lloyd,
19:30-21:00 Advanced class with Peter Blewett.
18:30-19:30 ABC in Judo with David Mesa Rey. (10 week course, three times a year.)
Wednesdays:
18:30-19:30 Technique class with Iurie Burazer.
Thursdays:
07:00- 08:00 Selection Session with Kohta
18:30-19:30 Beginners class with Peter Blewett and David Mesa Rey
19:30-21:00 Advanced with Ray Stevens.
Fridays:
12:30-13:30 All Levels with Kohta
20:00- 21:30 Advanced class with David Mesa Rey.
Saturdays:
14:00-15:00 ABC in Judo with Jacqui Lloyd. (10 week course, three times a year.)
15:30-16:30 Not complete Beginners with Ray Stevens
16:30-18:00 Advanced classes are run by Ray Stevens.
Sundays:
09:30-11:00 Cadet members, older children, young adults as well as senior mentors, with Paul Ajala.
Club visits can be easily organised and are particularly welcome on a Saturday afternoon. This class is taken by Paul Ajala and Tony Sweeney.





Senior Judo Annual Membership*
£80
Student / NHS / Military Fees
£5.50
Per Class
Senior Fees
£9.50
Per Class
Visitors
£12.50
Per Class
Student Judo Annual Membership*
£80
*Senior Membership- 16+ years
*Student Membership- 16+ years with valid student ID-NUS
Judo suits must be worn when attending classes.
You are welcome to come along to The Budokwai to watch any of our Judo classes if you are interested. Our martial arts instructors or reception staff are always there to answer any questions you may have.
Occasionally the reception have gis for hire at a cost of £10
Visitors who are returning to Judo are welcome to train in the beginner/intermediate classes, but are required to let the instructor know the level of Martial Arts background before the start of the lesson. These classes are where novice Judoka learn, and the learning atmosphere must be preserved.
<< Schedule for Sat 6 Sep 2025 - Fri 12 Sep 2025 >>
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm | Senior Judo | ||
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm | Senior Judo Advanced |
9:30 am - 11:00 am | Cadet Judo Class from 13 years |
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm | Judo with Kohta | ||
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm | Senior Judo Advanced |
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm | Senior Judo Beginners/Intermediate | ||
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm | Senior Judo |
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm | Judo Technique |
7:00 am - 8:00 am | Judo with Kohta | ||
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm | Senior Judo Beginners/Intermediate | ||
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm | Senior Judo Advanced |
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm | Judo with Kohta | ||
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm | Senior Judo |