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Wolf Judo
5 ★★★★★ Judo dojo in Chicago, Illinois
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
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Website & schedule wolfjudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 773-230-6070
The classes they run
“The atmosphere of practice and at tournaments that is upheld by Brett Wolf turns judo from an individual sport to a team sport.”
What members say
“The atmosphere of practice and at tournaments that is upheld by Brett Wolf turns judo from an individual sport to a team sport.”
From the reviews
Best damn coaching in the United States. I've been with Wold Judo since I was 6 years old and the program has shaped my whole character and instilled in me the values and morals of a champion, on and off the mat.
New to judo? Start at Wolf Judo
Wolf Judo 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 Wolf 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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