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Kogaion Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Judo
5 ★★★★★ 141 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Arlington, Virginia
Plan your first class
- Free trial or intro class most dojos welcome new members with a free trial or intro class — check their site or give them a call to book your first session
- 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 (ages 5–12) — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Open mat open-mat randori sessions for members to practice live — always optional and at your own pace
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule kogaionacademy.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 703-732-7974
Hours
| Monday | 12–1 pm, 5–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6–7 am, 5–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 12–1 pm, 5–9 pm |
| Thursday | 6–7 am, 5–9 pm |
| Friday | 6–9 pm |
| Saturday | 10:30 am–1:30 pm |
| Sunday | 11:30 am–2 pm |
The classes they run
“Dropped in from out of town, and I couldn’t have asked for a more friendly, enthusiastic, or talented group of people to train with, especially for my first time at the dojo.”
“High quality coaching for kids in a safe and fun environment to practice their skills while also instilling a sense of discipline and respect.”
“Our teens have learned so much from both of them and they have excelled in just a few months under their teaching!”
“Also, as a woman training in a male-dominated sport, it can be really difficult to find a gym with a good culture—I could not be more comfortable at this gym!”
“Beatrice leads first class training while balancing being an active successful black belt competitor herself.”
Other martial arts here
“Whether you’re dropping in, just starting out, or looking for a solid home gym, I highly recommend Kogaion Academy to anyone looking to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the area.”
What members say
“Dropped in from out of town, and I couldn’t have asked for a more friendly, enthusiastic, or talented group of people to train with, especially for my first time at the dojo.”
“Dropped in from out of town, and I couldn’t have asked for a more friendly, enthusiastic, or talented group of people to train with, especially for my first time at the dojo.”
“The atmosphere is friendly, the instruction is top-tier, and the attention to detail on technique is excellent.”
“I’ve seen progress in my children’s skills, confidence, and motivation, and they genuinely look forward to each class.”
“Beatrice leads first class training while balancing being an active successful black belt competitor herself.”
“Also, as a woman training in a male-dominated sport, it can be really difficult to find a gym with a good culture—I could not be more comfortable at this gym!”
From the reviews
Kogaion Academy is one of the best places that I’ve been trained Judo at. They helped me improve my Judo skills for my next competition. I even drove 8 hours just to train with them with my family!
I trained at Kogaion Academy for almost two months and had an excellent experience. Víctor and Beatrice were extremely welcoming and accommodating, and they prorated my membership without any issues.
My daughter, Willa-James started at Kogaion in February of 2025, just before turning 6. I hoped enrolling her in martial arts would instill some discipline and respect that we were lacking. She started in the kids BJJ class and added Judo this fall. What a gift this special place has been for Willa.
Kogaion Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Judo has truly changed my kids' lives. Currently, four of them are enrolled, each starting at age four, one after the other. Their confidence and strength have skyrocketed thanks to this incredible program.
New to judo? Start at Kogaion Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Judo
Kogaion Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & 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 Kogaion Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & 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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