One of the Martial Arts you can learn at Absolute MMA is the art of Judo (sign up for your FREE trial). Judo’s origins began in Japan in the late 1800s and it continues to withstand the test of time today. Created by Jigoro Kano, Judo is known for its effectiveness in taking an opponent to the ground. Judo has its own systems of throws, trips, pins, and submissions to defeat an opponent.
Learn more about Judo at Absolute MMA
Judo is a key part of Absolute MMA’s curriculum for both self-defense and combat sports. Absolute MMA owner, Rob Handley, is a Judo Blackbelt and multiple-time Judo national medalist. All of our students can expect the best instruction from qualified instructors.
Principles and techniques from Judo can be applied in various situations including MMA and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Judo helps combat sports athletes more confidence when grappling on their feet. Now that you have a better understanding of what Judo is, let’s cover the benefits of Judo!
10 benefits you receive from learning Judo
There’s a wide range of benefits you can receive from the art of Judo! Below are 10 benefits from learning Judo that you’ll learn more about:
- Increased strength: You’ll definitely get stronger as you practice throwing other human beings! Judo tests your physical strength in different ways. In every Judo class, you will engage pushing and pulling muscles. You will also test your core strength and more!
- Improved flexibility: As you progress through your Judo journey, you’ll learn how to move your body more effectively and efficiently. A natural consequence of Judo training is you will also become more flexible. You will also have a greater range of motion as you drill various Judo-specific movements.
- Better cardio: Judo is a demanding grappling art that pushes your cardio levels. With regular attendance, you’ll be able to improve your cardio and train for more extended periods of time. Your lung capacity will increase which will help you focus less on simply trying to keep up and be able to focus more on learning.
- Increased positivity: Our Judo classes at Absolute MMA are fun and engaging! You can’t help but feel more positive after every class. Our instructors are focused on helping you learn and grow while providing a top-tier environment for Judo.
- Stronger self-defense skillset: Learning Judo helps you become a more well-rounded fighter. You’re more familiar with everything that can happen on the feet both defensively and on the ground.
- More friends: There’s so much good energy in the Judo community! You’ll quickly make new friends on the mats. As you train together, you’ll find more motivation to do your best every day despite the challenges you may face.
- Greater resiliency: Judo teaches you that you’re capable of doing difficult things on a consistent basis. Your mental toughness increases because you know you’re able to keep getting back to your feet no matter how many times you’ve been thrown or tripped.
- Better problem-solving abilities: Judo forces you to solve problems in real time. In your Judo classes, you will gain tools and technical skills you can use to overcome obstacles. Some of the obstacles you’ll learn to rise above include countering hip throws and breaking grips.
- More self-confidence: Your confidence will build over time. Consistent training will help you feel more confident in everything you do whether you’re warming up or doing randori.
- Pure fun: There’s nothing like the fun of learning how to throw someone else! Judo classes are often filled with smiles and laughter due to the camaraderie and growth you achieve through Judo.
How to begin your Judo journey
If this is your first time learning about Judo, this is your sign to begin training! It may seem scary to start learning something new but it doesn’t have to be. To get started in Judo, we recommend doing the following:
Ask around
There’s a chance that there are people in your current network who are already doing Judo. Reach out to people around you to see if they train or know anyone who does. Ask Judokas in your circle about where they train and why they chose the gym they’re at. It’s in your best interest to ask for their insights since they have more experience in the art of Judo. Experienced Judokas also have their own opinions about what makes a great gym.
Do a quick Google search for Judo gyms near you
Conducting an online search will help you find a gym/dojo to train at. Take your time to read reviews, check out social media profiles, and more. Examining a Judo gym’s online presence will give you a clearer picture of what you can expect from a gym you’re interested in.
Factor in location and price
Remember it’s easier to train when you’re a member of a Judo gym that is less than 30 minutes from your home/work. Distance matters because it affects how easily and how frequently you’re able to train.
Be sure to factor in membership fees and where it falls in your monthly budget. Take some time to analyze your budget to figure out how much you’ll be spending on Judo each month.
Do a trial class
Now that you’ve done a bunch of research, it’s time for your first trial class! It’s in your best
interest to take a class so you have a better idea of what you can expect if you were to sign up. You’ll also have a better understanding of who you’d be training with at the gym you try out.
While you’re doing a trial class, take the time to ask any questions you may have for the sensei/instructor in charge. Asking questions you have in mind will help you clear up any doubts or reservations you may have about starting Judo.
Our recommended Judo Gi:
We’re excited to see you on the mats here at Absolute MMA! You’ll have a fun time while learning the art of Judo. In the event that you have any questions about our classes, give us a call at (801) 255-1166!