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Chucktown Judo
4.9 ★★★★★ 63 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Ladson, 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
- Kids & youth classes kids and youth judo classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule chucktownjudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (843) 996-8428
Hours
| Monday | 5–7:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 5–7:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 5–7:30 PM |
| Thursday | 5–7:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“He emphasizes discipline, proper technique, and respect while still making classes engaging and accessible for all levels.”
“While they focus on Junior Long Term Athlete Development, adults are welcome to come learn Judo and help build the future of the Charleston Area.”
“The instructors and the gym owner at the school have worked together for many years and are active competitors that embody strong martial arts values.”
“Chucktown Judo has a mission to support the underserved community's path to national and international judo competition through a collaborative effort from all local instructors.”
“Whether you’re looking to get in shape, learn self-defense, or dive deeper into martial arts, this judo program is outstanding.”
Other martial arts here
“Whether you’re looking to get in shape, learn self-defense, or dive deeper into martial arts, this judo program is outstanding.”
What members say
“Sensei Eli is a great mentor, coach, and altogether an amazing human being.”
“He emphasizes discipline, proper technique, and respect while still making classes engaging and accessible for all levels.”
“He builds confidence, discipline, and respect into every class, creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone.”
“He emphasizes discipline, proper technique, and respect while still making classes engaging and accessible for all levels.”
“Chucktown Judo has a mission to support the underserved community's path to national and international judo competition through a collaborative effort from all local instructors.”
“While they focus on Junior Long Term Athlete Development, adults are welcome to come learn Judo and help build the future of the Charleston Area.”
From the reviews
Chucktown Judo has a mission to support the underserved community's path to national and international judo competition through a collaborative effort from all local instructors. It is a special place where Judo is for everyone and all the local talent supports the youth.
I don't know anything about Judo, but as a father of three sons I know young boys. Sensei Eli has the patience of a saint. He also commands the respect of his students and runs a tight ship.
“I can’t say enough great things about this judo class! The instructors are highly knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about teaching. They create a welcoming environment that works for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners.
An outstanding group of individuals who go beyond just teaching competitive judo they truly embody and promote the core values of the sport. While competition is encouraged, the environment is welcoming and inclusive for everyone.
New to judo? Start at Chucktown Judo
Chucktown Judo 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 Chucktown Judo
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.
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