Martial Arts · OUJC
Judo is an exciting martial art and Olympic sport that can benefit both your physical and mental well-being.
Judo is an exciting martial art and Olympic sport that can benefit both your physical and mental well-being. As a judo practitioner, or judoka, you will learn techniques that use an opponent's momentum and energy against them, rather than brute strength. You will learn to throw your opponents to the ground, pin them, and apply various joint locks and chokeholds to defeat them. Judo training combines technique and physical conditioning, and can lead to significant improvements in focus, confidence, and overall fitness.
The Oxford University Judo Club (OUJC) has a long and rich history, being one of the first judo clubs at a British university, having been established around 1926. To this day, the club trains year-round at its dedicated Dojo in the Iffley Road Sports Centre, and caters to a wide range of beginners, intermediates, and higher-level players. Our club regularly participates and medals in local, national, and international competitions - the Judo Varsity match between Oxford and Cambridge Judo in particular has taken place every year since 1930. Judo is a discretionary Full Blue sport, capable of granting Oxford's highest honour to its student athletes.
At OUJC, we prioritise affordability and strive to offer the sport as an opportunity to make new friends and be part of a supportive and inclusive community. We are open to people of all genders and skill levels, with a dedicated beginner's course held in Michaelmas Term and regular women-only classes held throughout the year. Our coaches also have experience training people with disabilities - we welcome enquiries from those with a disability regarding the accessibility of Judo.
Up to 4 Half Blues to those with blue belts or higher who have medalled at BUCS or another major competition and won their Varsity Match fight. Discretionary Full Blues to those who have met the same criteria but usually with a black belt.