Judo Classes in Chicago, IL
Chicago has 4 judo dojos — including 1 beginner-friendly and 1 with kids' classes. Every listing is ranked by what members say (Google rating weighted by review count) and shows live open-now hours and the classes each dojo runs, so you can find your dojo and book your first class. All levels welcome — you don't need to be fit or have any experience to start.
Wolves Judo Academy Kids
5 ★★★★★ 29 reviews
Good to know in Chicago
1 of the 4 dojos with posted hours are open on Sundays.
New to judo?
This dojo is called out by members as welcoming to beginners — go at your own pace, ask questions, and know that randori builds up slowly and you start by learning to fall safely. Everyone in the room started with a first class.
- Wolf Judo ★★★★★ 5
Kids & teen judo in Chicago
This dojo runs kids' or youth classes — supervised, confidence-building, and focused on discipline and self-defense. Check each dojo's schedule for age groups and times.
- Wolves Judo Academy Kids ★★★★★ 5 (29)
Judo in Chicago: quick answers
- How much does judo cost a month in Chicago?
- Most Chicago dojos don't post prices online. Judo is usually sold as a monthly membership, and it often runs cheap at community and nonprofit clubs. Many offer a free or discounted first class, so you can visit before you commit — see our cost guide for typical price ranges.
- Do any Chicago dojos offer a free trial or free first class?
- None of the Chicago dojos list a free trial in our data, but many offer a free or discounted first class even when it isn't posted — it's always worth calling to ask.
- I'm a total beginner — can I start judo in Chicago?
- Yes. Judo welcomes complete beginners, and you don't need to be fit or have any experience first — the training gets you in shape. 1 Chicago dojo is highlighted by members as beginner-friendly. Randori (live sparring) builds up slowly, a good dojo never pressures newcomers, and you start by learning ukemi (safe falling) — you bow in, show respect, and all levels are welcome.
- Are there kids' judo classes in Chicago?
- Yes — 1 Chicago dojo runs kids' or youth judo. Youth programs focus on confidence, discipline, and fun in a supervised setting; check each dojo's schedule for age groups and times.