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Washington Judo Academy
5 ★★★★★ 92 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Bellevue, Washington
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.
Martial arts club offering instruction in judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and wrestling to children and adults.
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 — 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 wajudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 206-229-9856
Hours
| Monday | 5–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 5:15–9 pm |
| Thursday | 5:15–9 pm |
| Friday | 5–9 pm |
| Saturday | 11 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 3–5 pm |
The classes they run
“I highly recommend the academy to anyone interested in learning judo, whether beginners or experienced practitioners.”
“We also really appreciate the students from more advanced classes who help the young kids follow all activities, our son seems to really listen and look up to them too.”
“My husband and son helped to build this dojo, my husband both attends adult classes and sometimes helps to teach kids.”
“Even when I’m traveling to various tournaments around the world, he will go out of his way to answer my questions and point me in the right direction.”
“Sincerely, Melissa Myers 3x National Champion 2x Pan Am Team Member 2024 World Team Member #65 world ranking 70kg female.”
“My uchimata has developed so much over the last 6 months going to classes here.”
Other martial arts here
What members say
“I have worked closely with Sensei Nick and he is so knowledgeable and helpful with my practice.”
“I highly recommend the academy to anyone interested in learning judo, whether beginners or experienced practitioners.”
“Coaches are dedicated, enthusiastic, experienced and skilled while professional, supportive, and attentive in their approach.”
“The youth classes are well-structured, providing a perfect balance of physical exercise and technique instruction.”
“Super inviting place glad we found it and that my son loves it too.”
“Even when I’m traveling to various tournaments around the world, he will go out of his way to answer my questions and point me in the right direction.”
From the reviews
I highly recommend Washington Judo Academy to anyone looking to improve their Judo skills, get in shape, or just have fun. The atmosphere is friendly, supportive, and encouraging. Everyone is willing to help each other and push each other to be the best version of themselves.
This is such an excellent judo academy! They take anyone regardless of experience level and help you reach your highest potential in judo. Any amount of time spent there will benefit you! The instructors are so excited to be a part of our journey in this sport, especially Sensei Nick!
Washington Judo Academy has a beautiful array of instructors that have students from ages 2 all the way to 76. They really prove to the community that judo is for everybody. My uchimata has developed so much over the last 6 months going to classes here. I am doing things with my body that I never thought were possible.
Washington Judo Academy is easily the best dojo around! Very inviting and friendly atmosphere. The staff is fantastic, and the community here is always willing to help. They’ve gone above and beyond to provide an amazing experience.
New to judo? Start at Washington Judo Academy
Washington Judo Academy 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 Washington 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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