What is Judo?
Judo is a Japanese Martial Art and Olympic Sport. Created in 1882 by Jigoro Kano, Judo consists of Throwing and Submission Techniques such as Pins or Holds, Choking and Joint Manipulation.
When, Where and What time are classes?
All classes are held at the Foothills Recreation and Aquatics Center, 5600 West Union Hills Drive, Glendale Az 88308, 2nd Level, Studio B
Youth Classes are Mondays and Tuesdays from 6pm-7:15pm
Adult Classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm-7:15pm
Youth Classes are Mondays and Tuesdays from 6pm-7:15pm
Adult Classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm-7:15pm
How much do classes cost?
$21 a month for Glendale Residents (Youth/Adult)
$25 a month for Non-Residents (Youth/Adult)
$25 a month for Non-Residents (Youth/Adult)
Do I need to be a member of the Rec Center?
You do not need to be a member of the Rec Center to enroll in Desert Judo. If you are not a member of the Rec Center, please refrain from using any of the facilities/equipment meant for paying members.
I am a member of the Rec Center. Do I still need to pay for Judo Classes?
Yes. Desert Judo is offered as a “Special Interest” class through the City of Glendale and is therefore not included in regular Rec Center Membership.
Can I observe a class before deciding to Register?
Absolutely! When arriving at the Rec Center, tell the staff at the front desk you are there to observe the Judo Class and they will let you up.
I have never done Judo before, do I need a Gi?
No. The first few weeks of judo are spent learning how to properly fall and roll on the mat. This can be done without a Gi. Regular workout attire (shorts, sweats etc) are fine for learning to fall and roll safely.
After learning to roll and fall safely you will need a gi.
After learning to roll and fall safely you will need a gi.
Does Desert Judo provide/sell gi's?
Desert Judo does not sell Gi's. We do have a few "loaner Gi's" for short term use.
What is the difference between a Judo Gi and other Gi's?
Every Martial Art has it's own unique uniform specifically designed for that art/style. Due to the physical nature of Judo involving grabbing and grappling, Judogis are made from thicker materials and reinforced in key areas to avoid ripping or damage to the Gi during practice. Please check with our instructors before ordering a gi to make sure it is appropriate for Judo.
How long does it take to learn judo?
It varies by individual but basic skills can be developed in 6 months to a year. Black Belts take an average of 5-7 years to earn.
Is Judo good for self defense?
Judo (or any other Martial Art) takes a long time to learn and be proficient at, therefore it's not really a short term solution to self defense.
Any Martial Art can/should be one of the many tools in your overall Personal Self Defense Plan such as situational awareness, de-escalation techniques and physical defenses like home and car security systems
Any Martial Art can/should be one of the many tools in your overall Personal Self Defense Plan such as situational awareness, de-escalation techniques and physical defenses like home and car security systems
What is the difference between Judo and Brazilian Jujitsu?
Depending on the school, Judo generally focuses on throwing your opponent. There is “grappling” in Judo (arm locks, chokes, pins etc) but the ratio of Throwing to Grappling is usually about 70/30.
Brazilian Jujitsu is a derivative of Judo that focuses mainly on grappling. The ratio of throwing to grappling in BJJ is roughly 30/70
Brazilian Jujitsu is a derivative of Judo that focuses mainly on grappling. The ratio of throwing to grappling in BJJ is roughly 30/70
Do I need to compete to get promoted?
No. However, you will earn points towards promotion faster through competition. While we do not require competition to be promoted, we highly recommend our students compete. Competition allows students to test their skills in a safe, controlled environment, aids our instructors in identifying areas that need improvement and allows us to provide positive feedback to our students.
Do I need to join and Organization/Governing Body?
Membership in a governing body is not required to attend class.
Membership in a governing body is required if:
You wish compete.
You wish for your rank to be “Certified” by a governing body.
Desert Judo is a registered club of the following organizations:
USA Judo
United States Judo Association
United States Judo Federation
Membership in a governing body is required if:
You wish compete.
You wish for your rank to be “Certified” by a governing body.
Desert Judo is a registered club of the following organizations:
USA Judo
United States Judo Association
United States Judo Federation
When do classes start/stop? Why did I get put on the Wait List?
Classes are ongoing. There is no "Start/Stop" date.
Enrollment for each month closes on the 10th of that month. You can pre-enroll up to 6 months ahead of time.
Currently our class size is limited to 25 students for the Youth class and 15 for Adults. When the class reaches it's max enrollment you will be placed on the Wait List.
Enrollment for each month closes on the 10th of that month. You can pre-enroll up to 6 months ahead of time.
Currently our class size is limited to 25 students for the Youth class and 15 for Adults. When the class reaches it's max enrollment you will be placed on the Wait List.