The 6 Best Judo Dojos in Toronto [2022]

Best Judo Dojos in Toronto

If you’re looking for a martial art that is both physically and mentally challenging, look no further than judo. Judo is a Japanese martial art that combines elements of wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. It is known for its effectiveness in self-defence, as well as its many health benefits. Judo is a great way to get fit, improve coordination and balance, and learn self-defence. 

If you’re looking for a good judo dojo in Toronto, check out these six options. We chose these dojos based on their location, quality of instruction, reviews, and amenities. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned judo practitioner, these dojos have something to offer everyone. 

If you’re also interested in learning other forms of martial arts, make sure to check out our list of the best boxing gyms or the best jiujitsu schools in Toronto.

Summary

What's the Average Cost of Judo Lessons in Toronto?

Most Judo dojos operate on a membership basis, requiring students to sign up and pay monthly dues in order to attend classes. The average cost of Judo membership in Toronto is $65 -120 per month. 

However, many dojos offer discounts for multiple family members, as well as for longer-term commitments. There may also be additional costs associated with joining a Judo club, such as a registration fee, equipment fees, and the cost of a Judo uniform.

The Best Judo Dojos in Toronto

Now that you know what to expect in terms of cost, let’s take a look at some of the best Judo dojos in Toronto.

1. dAnnex Judo Academy

AJA is a community-based judo club in Toronto dedicated to the education and promotion of Kodokan judo. The members at AJA are committed not only to developing their skills, but also sharing those lessons with others who want to learn from them as well! 

Whether you are looking to test your skills at the club level or strive for excellence on an international stage, their judo program has something perfect waiting. The judo classes at their gym have a unique multilevel format that delivers top-level training to novice students. 

This spirit of cooperation and mutual growth is what makes these offerings so special, not just for the athletes but also for those new members who are looking forward to getting started with this great sport! 

Their judo family is large and diverse. They have members ranging in age from 5-70, both beginners to international competitors! They have separate classes for adults and children as well as combined sessions where their entire judo family trains together. 

The Annex Judo Academy is the place for anyone looking to try something new or curious about judo. The senseis are knowledgeable and welcoming, encouraging all skill levels of students with friendly encouragement as they learn skills that will help them in life beyond these doors!

Business Information:

Website: annexjudoacademy.com
Email: annexjudoacademy@gmail.com
Telephone: +14169963697
Address: 1271 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5R 3B5, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“ The sensei is charismatic and provides a fun and safe training, but also developing in the students the most fine skills of judo. I spent one year in Canada, and without a doubt my best friends were from annex academy. It doesn't matter your belt rank, being there always feels like home for everyone. “

Pros

  • Most of the instructors have at least 1st degree black belts
  • Has a cultural exchange program for students who have 1 year of Judo experience
  • Occasional guest Instructors from Japan

Cons

  • Unsecured website, that has a login
  • Adult classes are only held on Tuesdays and Fridays
  • Youth classes begin in September

2. Ronin Judo & Sumo Club

Ronin Judo and Sumo Club is the perfect place for anyone who wants to get in shape, meet new people or learn some basic self-defense skills. All levels of experience are welcome at their judo studio. Their coaches are perfect people to teach your children how they can have mutual respect for others and themselves.  

They are very good at their job, not only teaching kids all sorts of things but also taking time out during class hours or just hanging around after school with them so that no one feels left behind when it comes to getting into judo-fighting mode! 

There’s a nice balance between safety and competition, which makes it fun for everyone. Their practices always give you something new to learn every time you come here. Classes are $20 per class for adults and $10 for kids, with a reduced rate for monthly, yearly, and family memberships. Plus the first class is always free so come out and give them a try!

Business Information:

Website: facebook.com
Telephone: +16472273666
Address: 1 Wiltshire Ave #103, Toronto, ON M6N 5G4, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“ I love training here. I had a hiatus of a few years and I'm glad to be back. Very safety focused and non-martial but still with spirited sparring. Sumo is great fun. “

Pros

  • Offers Judo and Sumo programs for adults and a youth judo program
  • Membership options for reduced costs

Cons

  • Unsecured website
  • Closed on Tuesdays
  • Shorter hours on weekends

3. Midtown Judo Kiyomizukan

Midtown Judo Kiyomizukan is a Japanese judo dojo that teaches self-discipline, excellent conditioning and smooth technique. The goal of this studio’s instructors is to have you be able to play like an absolute team player while focusing on your own personal improvement at the same time! 

Through the power of hard work and steady practice, students are able to achieve incredible results for both mental well-being and physical health. The students will learn how to defend themselves against an attacker, using both standing and throwing techniques. 

The class is a great way for those who want self-defence skills without having any previous experience with judo! A positive environment and culture of perseverance are promoted so that each student can find their unique potential. 

Their senseis are great instructors who will make your time at the club enjoyable and informative. They provide an environment where new students can feel welcomed without any judgement.

Business Information:

Website: midtownjudo.com
Email: yukio.koglin@yahoo.com
Telephone: +14167126751
Address :4 St Clair Gardens, Toronto, ON M6E 3V4, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Midtown is a great judo club with an extremely competent instructor who is both engaging and very knowledgeable. The club perfectly balances a family friendly setting with good hard workouts and promotes a great atmosphere catering to various fitness and skill levels, from white to black belt and beyond. “

Pros

  • Instructor has a 4th degree black belt and multiple years of teaching experience at schools and universities
  • Offers different programs for youth of all ages

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays

4. The Academy Toronto

The Academy Toronto is a highly selective, authentic Martial Arts school that provides an unparalleled experience to its select membership. They offer judo which is an art that emphasizes throwing and groundwork. 

Their class follows the traditional structure as envisioned by Jigaro Kano for all levels! They’re all about making the dream work here at The Academy Toronto. And they mean that in two ways: first, by cultivating a positive and welcoming space for their students; second (and more importantly), teamwork makes this happen! 

They know you have your own unique story to tell—so let them help make it easier on yourself with one-on-one guidance from experienced educators who are ready to help you now more than ever before because they’ve been there themselves. 

You can make your success a reality. You have the power within you, but it will take some work on yourself first before achieving anything great! 

When you first come to the gym, everyone is welcoming and caring. It feels like they really want you to feel safe in your practice sessions because of how much respect each individual has for every other person there–it really feels like a family!

Business Information:

Website: theacademytoronto.ca
Email: dino@theacademytoronto.ca
Telephone: +14166971127
Address: 33 Davisville Ave, Toronto, ON M4S 2Y9, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“ I've been training Judo here for a little over two years and started learning BJJ recently as well. Instructors and staff is super helpful and knowledgeable and teach and train in a way that makes everyone feel motivated and wanting to do their best. This place defines "be your best, and better than yesterday" more than any other place I have been to. The great thing is they offer Judo, BJJ, Kickboxing, and Wrestling at the same place, so you can cross train quite nicely. “

Pros

  • Offers Wrestling, Judo, Kickboxing, Jiu jitsu and youth Jiu Jitsu programs
  • Most Instructors are at black belt

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays
  • Shorter hours on Saturdays
  • Participants must be vetted by the instructors at first trial before becoming a member
  • No specifics on rates

5. Action & Reaction MMA Inc.

Action & Reaction MMA understands that finding a martial arts school can be overwhelming. That’s why their priority is to help you or your children become the best versions of themselves through self-improvement, discipline, and respect for others and themselves. 

Their classes are great for all ages and levels. They offer Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai to teach children the art of self-defence as well as adults who want a more physical workout!  

Your success is their number one priority and the foundation for everything else that matters most in life: confidence & focus; fitness goals like weight loss or physical activity levels – they’ve got a program tailored specifically towards helping you achieve your personal best! 

They don’t just want you to succeed, they need it. Their experienced instructors are here to help you achieve everything you want, and they’ll do it in a fun environment that welcomes everyone too! 

Business Information:

Website: actionreactionmma.com
Email: info@actionreactionmma.com
Telephone: +14164948787
Address: 225 Sparks Ave, North York, ON M2H 2S5, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Great gym, amazing instructors, world class talent, friendly atmosphere, bright, clean and spacious facility makes this a top place to train whether you are a looking for a recreational or competitive club! I have trained there for the past 8 years... Highly recommended! “

Pros

  • Offers Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and youth programs for all ages
  • Near 404, close to TTC
  • Free parking

Cons

  • You have to give email and phone number to get access to their schedule and rates
  • Shorter hours on weekends

6. Olympic Judo Centre

If you want to be the best, then it’s time for judo. The Olympic Judo Centre will help guide your way towards achieving your ambitions with their high-level classes and techniques that can improve all aspects of fitness! 

The one thing that sets them apart from other schools is their unwavering commitment to the success of each student! They make sure your workout is tailored to you. No one should have trouble finding a program that’s right for them, that’s why they pride themselves on creating personalized exercise programs and goal-oriented athletes.

Their training programs are designed to get you the best results, no matter your goals. Whether it’s a small group class or one-on-one sessions with an expert trainer – they have something for everyone who wants their fitness level up.

Their experienced coaches know how each student feels like an individual person with their own set of strengths & weaknesses and can create workouts accordingly in order to achieve success while also ensuring safety. 

They see every student as an individual and they customize their training plans to fit your needs. Whether you are just starting out or an athlete at the top of their game, they will help make you feel better than ever!

Business Information:

Website: olympicjudocentre.ca
Email: Kobajudo73@mail.ru 
Romanjudo@gmail.com 
Telephone: +16478355738
Address: 850 Magnetic Dr, North York, ON M3J 2C4, Canada

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Best place to practice Judo. “

Pros

  • Instructors are black belts
  • Offers personal training and Judo programs for kids and adults

Cons

  • Closed on Saturdays
  • Shorter hours on Sunday

FAQs About Judo

The average time it takes to earn a black belt in Judo is 5-7 years. However, this can vary depending on the individual’s commitment to training and their natural ability.
Ideally, Judo students should train 3-5 times per week in order to make steady progress. However, most Judo clubs offer 2-3 classes per week, so it is still possible to make progress with this level of training.
Judo students are required to wear a Judo uniform, which consists of a white jacket and pants. Some clubs may also require the use of a Judo Gi (uniform), which is a heavier and more durable version of the standard Judo uniform.
No, you do not need to be strong to do Judo. In fact, many of the techniques in Judo rely on leverage and balance, rather than raw strength.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced judoka, we hope you find the dojo that’s perfect for you. Visit one of these six dojos and get started on your journey to becoming a black belt! And if you know of any other great dojos in Toronto, let us know in the comments below. We always love learning about new and upcoming clubs.

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