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Hollywood Judo Dojo
5 ★★★★★ 24 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Los Angeles, California
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
- Membership memberships run around $50/mo — many dojos also offer a discounted first month and family plans, so ask about new-member rates
- 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
- Private lessons private, one-on-one coaching available — a focused way to start or to work around a busy schedule; ask about availability and rates
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Website & schedule hollywoodjudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 323-666-8146
The classes they run
“They know how to adjust their teaching style for different age groups, making sure every student—whether a young beginner or an experienced adult—feels challenged and supported.”
“My son has been attending for over two years now, and he absolutely loves it.”
“My husband also used to attend adult classes here, and he had an amazing experience.”
“The membership fees are almost unbelievably reasonable ($40/month, plus $50/year for USJF membership and $20 donation to the Cultural Center).”
“These things are highly frowned upon in Kodokan Judo, and Hollywood Judo ensures that the purity of the sport that Jigoro Kano had envisioned is maintained.”
“I recommend this place to anyone looking to stay fit and learn practicle self defense.”
Other martial arts here
“I recommend this place to anyone looking to stay fit and learn practicle self defense.”
What members say
“They know how to adjust their teaching style for different age groups, making sure every student—whether a young beginner or an experienced adult—feels challenged and supported.”
“The training is a great workout, but more than that, it teaches discipline, technique, and respect—the core values of judo.”
“These things are highly frowned upon in Kodokan Judo, and Hollywood Judo ensures that the purity of the sport that Jigoro Kano had envisioned is maintained.”
“Non-profit club that charges a reasonable price for many classes throughout the week.”
“The training is a great workout, but more than that, it teaches discipline, technique, and respect—the core values of judo.”
From the reviews
This place is awesome. I quit Judo many years ago to take up BJJ and noticed over the years that with the commercialization of grappling and MMA, the aspect of martial arts that emphasizes respect and mutual benefit has almost altogether disappeared.
I've been at Hollywood Judo for about six months now, and joining is the best decision I've made in a long time. Judo is a terrific workout and stress reliever that also helps you develop self-discipline. This dojo combines these qualities of judo with a great atmosphere.
Hollywood Judo Dojo is hands down the best place for judo classes for all ages! My son has been attending for over two years now, and he absolutely loves it. The senseis are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and skilled at teaching both kids and adults.
The head instructor Sensei Philippe is a Swedish and Scandinavian Champion and former Member of Swedish National Team. He and the other instructors are all very knowledgeable and love the sport of Judo. And for the ambitious, you could be training 2-4 times a week. At $50 a month, there's no comprable deal like this.
New to judo? Start at Hollywood Judo Dojo
Hollywood Judo Dojo 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 Hollywood Judo Dojo
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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