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Jacksonville Judo Training Center
5 ★★★★★ 38 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Jacksonville, Florida
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
- Newaza newaza (groundwork) classes — judo's mat game of pins, holds, and controls, and a natural bridge to Brazilian jiu-jitsu
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule judojacksonville.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (904) 274-3410
Hours
| Monday | 6–9 PM |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 6–9 PM |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | 6–9 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“Whether you are a beginner looking to start martial arts or an experienced practitioner wanting serious traditional training, this is a place where you can truly grow.”
“My daughter has been training here for over a year with Sensei Hiram Tonka Cruz and Sensei Lester Sauri, and I couldn’t be more impressed.”
“The instruction is authentic and focused on traditional judo principles, with an emphasis on discipline, sacrifice, and continuous self-improvement.”
“It is the ultimate complete system of grappling that you can learn not just ground techniques like other gyms.”
“This one of the best martial arts that you can learn if not the best as you learn to take someone down or throw them by using leverage instead of muscle.”
“My daughter made new friends, is learning real effective self defense, and is getting exercise in all at the same time.”
Other martial arts here
“My daughter made new friends, is learning real effective self defense, and is getting exercise in all at the same time.”
What members say
“Whether you are a beginner looking to start martial arts or an experienced practitioner wanting serious traditional training, this is a place where you can truly grow.”
“The staff is consistently helpful and attentive, ensuring that the facility remains a welcoming space for every person who enters.”
“Since starting her training, my daughter has gained noticeable strength, refined her technique, and most importantly—developed a strong sense of confidence.”
“There’s a visible sense of camaraderie here that is fostered by the leadership; the instructors are as focused on character and respect as they are on technical skill.”
From the reviews
This dojo is awesome. I along with my daughter and wife train here and its one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. My daughter made new friends, is learning real effective self defense, and is getting exercise in all at the same time. The environment is very family friendly and fun to be around.
Both of my children (8 and 12) train here, and they absolutely love it! The coaches are fantastic with kids—they teach discipline, respect, and technique in a fun and engaging way. I’ve seen a huge improvement in their confidence and focus since they started.
5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jacksonville Judo Training Center is an outstanding dojo with a welcoming and professional atmosphere. My daughter has been training here for over a year with Sensei Hiram Tonka Cruz and Sensei Lester Sauri, and I couldn’t be more impressed.
The organization is family orientated really into the youth, compassionate in the art of Judo. Wonderful environment. I’m glad to be part of it.Ous
New to judo? Start at Jacksonville Judo Training Center
Jacksonville Judo Training Center 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 Jacksonville Judo Training Center
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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