Information & FAQs

What is Judo?
Judo is a traditional Japanese martial art and sport very similar to wrestling. A judo gi or uniform is worn at all times. Judo incorporates powerful throws, pins, joint locks, and chokes.

What is the age limit at your club?
The Riverside  Judo Club accepts students 18 and over (16 & 17 with parent and instructor approval). Youth classes (under 18) can be taken at the Riverside Youth Judo Club located at 10540 Magnolia Ave, Riverside CA 92505. The same instructors teach at both locations.

How much does your judo class cost?
The cost varies on the class you enroll for. The cost will be about $55 to $85 per quarter depending on the class. The judo gi or uniform cost about $45 to $50. We also recommend a membership with the United States Judo Association (not mandatory) which cost about $50/year.

How do I sign up?
You can sign up in person at the UCR Recreation Center. You may also sign up online. The phone number to the UCR Recreation Center is 951-27-5731 the website is http://recreation.ucr.edu/schedules/index.html

Do I need to purchase any equipment?
Judo is practiced in a Judo Gi. For the first month or so it is not required. A judo gi will become necessary to practice and learn judo techniques. Jiu-Jitsu gis are allowed in practice if you already have one , an actual judo gi is mandatory for competition. Karate gis do not perform well in Judo class and often rip.

How much does a Judo gi cost?
It varies on size, weave, and quality. We encourage students to price judo gis on their own. We can order Judo gis at our club discount. Typical cost for a basic Judo gi will be between $30-$70 depending on the size of the student and the thickness of the Gi. Most Judo gis will last for years.

Is there punching and kicking in Judo?
No. Judo is a defensive martial art which focuses on grappling and control. In many cases, the smaller person has advantage. There are Kata (forms) that include striking, but it is only practiced by higher ranking Judoka.

How long before I get promoted to Black Belt?
Judo is not for impatient people. If a student practices very hard, competes, and displays excellent technique and character, it is not unheard of to promote to 1st Dan (black belt) within 5 years. Students under 15 years old are rarely promoted to black belt unless they are exceptional Judo practitioners and competitors.