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Stamford Judo
4.5 ★★★★★ 17 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Stamford, Connecticut
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 $40/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 (ages 6–23) — 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
- 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 stamfordjudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 203-253-2008
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 6–8:30 pm |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 8–9 am |
| Friday | 5–9 pm |
| Saturday | 11:15 am–12:30 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“When we were kids he created an atmosphere that invited competition and encouraged you to push yourself.”
“Our team is full of local regulars interested in self defense or getting a great workout, and it's also produced a handful of Olympic level competitors.”
“Our team is full of local regulars interested in self defense or getting a great workout, and it's also produced a handful of Olympic level competitors.”
“You will come out feeling great, even when you are getting thrown on the mat.”
“Our team is full of local regulars interested in self defense or getting a great workout, and it's also produced a handful of Olympic level competitors.”
Other martial arts here
“Likewise, if you also do BJJ and want to learn throws and judo techniques for your standup game, come to this place!”
“Our team is full of local regulars interested in self defense or getting a great workout, and it's also produced a handful of Olympic level competitors.”
What members say
“First off, this club was started by Shiina Sensei, one of the greatest instructors of all time.”
“Incredibly knowledgeable coach and friendly people.”
“You will come out feeling great, even when you are getting thrown on the mat.”
“Our team is full of local regulars interested in self defense or getting a great workout, and it's also produced a handful of Olympic level competitors.”
“When we were kids he created an atmosphere that invited competition and encouraged you to push yourself.”
“Overall a nice dojo if you are interested in this martial art.”
From the reviews
This place is like my home away from home and it is a great place learn and practice Judo in the Fairfield County. People come from all over CT to train here. Other Judokas are helpful and Coach Chris is a great teacher. Unfortunately, I started Judo really late in life so I am used primarily as a grappling dummy.
This is a great place for kids and adults to learn judo. Coach is very good and patient. Classes are challenging but fun. Overall a nice dojo if you are interested in this martial art.
First off, this club was started by Shiina Sensei, one of the greatest instructors of all time. When we were kids he created an atmosphere that invited competition and encouraged you to push yourself. I have been involved with Stamford Judo Club for about 28 years.
I just started training judo. Let me say that this place is a hidden gem! Everyone here is super helpful. You will come out feeling great, even when you are getting thrown on the mat. The lessons and the tips that you get from the higher belts are beyond incredible! Coach Chris is the best and he is friendly.
New to judo? Start at Stamford Judo
Stamford 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 Stamford 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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