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Heights Judo Academy
5 ★★★★★ 15 Google reviews · Judo dojo in New York, New York
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
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule sites.google.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (917) 468-4124
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 8–9:30 PM |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 12:30–2:30 PM |
The classes they run
“Whether you're a beginner or experienced in martial arts, this class provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn and grow while becoming part of a welcoming community.”
Other martial arts here
What members say
“Sensei Julio, a knowledgeable and approachable instructor, ensures that the sessions are intensive, with students in constant motion, maximizing both practice and learning time.”
“Whether you're a beginner or experienced in martial arts, this class provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn and grow while becoming part of a welcoming community.”
“Whether you're a beginner or experienced in martial arts, this class provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn and grow while becoming part of a welcoming community.”
“The cleanliness and attention to detail within the dojo reflect the professionalism and dedication of the staff.”
“The cleanliness and attention to detail within the dojo reflect the professionalism and dedication of the staff.”
“Sensei Julio masterfully balances disciplined instruction with an enjoyable, engaging experience, preventing the class from feeling overly formal or tedious.”
From the reviews
I began attending Washington Heights Judo in March of 2024, and after 25 classes, I can confidently say I’m hooked. My prior experience in Taegojitsu led me to seek a complementary martial art, and upon my Hanshi's recommendation, I ventured into judo to broaden my knowledge and skill set.
Since joining judo heights, I have felt so welcomed and guided by sensei Julio. It opened doors for me to explore judo as my new passion of martial arts. I am just greatful to have sensei Julio and the senseis be my guidance and encouragement to become better.
Great place . Spacious and comfortable , with instructors who are attentive to detail and are very caring . I have been a member for 3 years and enjoy each session . This place is great to learn fundamentals and to also learn how to defend yourself.
Great dojo with excellent instructors. Julio is a great Sensei and works with beginner to advanced judo player. This is an excellent place to start to learn and develop judo and the only dojo uptown. I can’t say enough good things about this school
New to judo? Start at Heights Judo Academy
Heights Judo Academy comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo, going by their listing and members’ reviews. 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 Heights 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.
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🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site