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Bulldog Judo Academy
4.9 ★★★★★ 10 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Columbia, South Carolina
Affiliated dojo — reviews and the dojo's own info point to a recognized judo governing body or lineage (think USA Judo, USJA, USJF, Kodokan or Tenri). If affiliation matters to you, ask which body the dojo belongs to and under whom the head sensei earned their black belt.
Plan your first class
- Beginner-friendly all levels welcome, including total beginners — you don't need to be fit or have any experience to start
- Newaza newaza (groundwork) classes — judo's mat game of pins, holds, and controls, and a natural bridge to Brazilian jiu-jitsu
- Open mat open-mat randori sessions for members to practice live — always optional and at your own pace
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule bulldogjudosc.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 803-216-1247
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 6:30–8:30 pm |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“Very beginner friendly and always looking for new training partners.”
Other martial arts here
What members say
“I've been going here for a few months now, fantastic group of people and a great coach.”
From the reviews
It was a real pleasure training with Travis while he was in town. I truly enjoyed the opportunity to share the mat and do some randori together. He's a skilled and knowledgeable Sensei with great energy and technique. I’ll definitely be stopping by his dojo the next time I’m in Columbia, looking forward to it!
I started judo a few months ago and I love it!!! Would absolutely recommend to anyone interested in learning or getting better at judo!
I've been going here for a few months now, fantastic group of people and a great coach. Very beginner friendly and always looking for new training partners.
Affordable prices beautiful family and great teaching what more can you possibly ask for
New to judo? Start at Bulldog Judo Academy
Bulldog Judo Academy comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo — noted on their own site. If you've never stepped on a mat, that's exactly who a good beginners program is for. A few things worth knowing before your first week. First, you don't need to be fit or flexible to start — you get in shape by training, not before it, and sensei scale the intensity to you. Second, you'll start by learning to fall safely (ukemi) — reputable dojos build fundamentals (breakfalls, grips, a first throw and some groundwork) for weeks, live randori eases in gradually, and tapping early keeps everyone safe. Third, all levels really are welcome — ask about a dedicated beginners class time so your first session is alongside others who are also starting out, and remember to bow in and show respect (rei). Most dojos are happy to let you watch or try a class first, so reach out before you commit.
Your first judo class at Bulldog Judo Academy
Nervous about walking into a judo dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and good sensei expect beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, learning to fall safely (ukemi), then drilling a throw or two and some groundwork with a partner — not hard randori. Rest whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a judogi if you have one); you'll train barefoot on the mats. What to bring: water and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner judogi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own judogi. Live randori eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
More judo dojos near Columbia
Palmetto Jujitsu Academy
5 ★★★★★ 10 reviews
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Lexington: Carter’s Academy
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Bulldog Judo Academy (Gilbert)
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🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site