Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Traditional Judo Training in Long Beach, CA
Established in 1950 by Masaaki Nakaoka, Long Beach Judo Dojo has been a cornerstone of traditional martial arts instruction in Southern California. Under the current leadership of Craig Takeshita, a 6th dan instructor, we continue to emphasize the foundational principles of judo, focusing on physical development, mental discipline, and character building. As a non-profit organization, we reinvest student fees and city grants into community initiatives, including judo clinics, tuition scholarships for at-risk youth, and charitable donations.Our structured curriculum teaches essential techniques like ukemi (safe falling) while maintaining the cultural respect and values passed down through generations. With over seven decades of continuous operation, we remain committed to preserving judo's heritage while making it accessible to modern practitioners through monthly parent meetings, competitive tournament opportunities, and a transparent belt ranking system that measures individual progress.
Services
Judo Training
Scholarship Programs
Community Clinics
Tournament Participation
Belt Ranking System
Ukemi Instruction
Parent Meetings
Quarterly Tuition
City Grant Utilization
Monetary Donations
Details
- Year established: 1950
Highlights and features
- We have maintained traditional judo instruction since 1950 with experienced instructors.
- Our non-profit status ensures community reinvestment through scholarships and clinics.
- We offer structured belt ranking systems with clear proficiency benchmarks.
- Monthly parent meetings ensure transparent communication about student progress.
- Tournament participation opportunities help measure practical skill development.
Services
Judo Training
Our judo classes teach traditional techniques on tatami mats, emphasizing physical fitness and mental discipline. Students learn ukemi (safe falling) and progressive skills through structured practice. The program builds character while preparing practitioners for competitive tournaments and belt promotions.
Scholarship Programs
We offer tuition assistance to at-risk youth through referrals from dojo members. Scholarships require demonstrated financial need and potential for success in judo training. This initiative helps make martial arts accessible to underserved community members while promoting personal development.
Belt Ranking System
Our progressive belt system measures technical proficiency and tournament performance. Students advance through white, orange/green, blue/purple, brown, and black belt ranks. Each level requires mastery of specific techniques and katas, with promotions evaluated through formal assessments.
Community Clinics
We host regular judo clinics to share technical knowledge with local practitioners. These sessions focus on skill refinement, tournament preparation, and cultural education. Clinics are open to both dojo members and external martial arts enthusiasts from the Long Beach area.
Tournament Participation
Competitive opportunities are available through our annual tournament schedule. Events help students test technical skills under pressure while building confidence. Participation is encouraged but optional, with preparation integrated into regular practice sessions and special training programs.
People
Masaaki Nakaoka
Founder
Established Long Beach Judo in 1950 and taught until 1987. He laid the foundation for our traditional approach and community-focused philosophy that continues today.
Craig Takeshita
Instructor
Current 6th dan instructor since 1987, dedicated to preserving traditional judo while adapting teaching methods for modern students. Oversees curriculum development and community outreach programs.
Questions
What age groups can participate in judo training?
Our program accepts students of all ages, with youth divisions starting at elementary school level and adult classes available for practitioners of any age.
Are there competitive opportunities for students?
Yes, we offer tournament participation with an annual schedule shared at the start of each year. Competitions help measure technical progress and build confidence.
How does the belt ranking system work?
Students progress through white, orange/green, blue/purple, brown, and black belt ranks. Each level requires technical mastery and tournament performance evaluations for promotion.
What equipment is needed for judo practice?
Students need a judo gi (uniform) and appropriate footwear for changing areas. Tatami mats are provided at our facility for safe practice sessions.
How are tuition fees structured?
Fees are quarterly: $120 for individuals, $180 for two family members, and $210 for three or more family members practicing together.
