Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Women's Judo Classes in San Francisco | Soko Joshi Judo Club
Soko Joshi Judo Club was founded in 1970 by the legendary Keiko Fukuda, the last surviving student of Dr. Jigoro Kano, judo's founder, and the first woman to achieve a 10th-degree black belt in judo history. Our instructors, directly trained by Fukuda Sensei, uphold her legacy of technical precision, philosophical depth, and dedication to mutual welfare. We emphasize proper form, mental discipline, and the life lessons inherent in judo, including perseverance, focus, and respect. Our women's classes cater to all skill levels, combining self-defense techniques, grappling, and competitive training.We host the annual Keiko Fukuda Kata Championship, preserving traditional Kodokan kata forms. Our community extends through partnerships like the Keiko Fukuda Judo Foundation, which supports women in judo globally. With over 50 years of history, we remain committed to fostering physical, mental, and spiritual growth through judo. Our affordable membership fees and emphasis on accessibility ensure judo remains inclusive for all women. We operate under the guiding principle 'Be Strong, Be Gentle, Be Beautiful'a philosophy that defines our approach to teaching and life.
Services
Women's Judo Classes
Advanced Judo Training
Kata Championship Tournament
Judo Foundation Support
Documentary Film
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- Our instructors trained directly under 10th Dan judo master Keiko Fukuda for decades.
- We emphasize proper form and technical precision in all judo techniques.
- Our curriculum integrates philosophical lessons like perseverance and mutual respect.
- Affordable $75 monthly fees with flexible class options for all skill levels.
- We host the annual Keiko Fukuda Kata Championship, preserving traditional judo forms.
Associations and certifications
- United States Judo Federation
Services
Women's Judo Classes
Our all-levels judo classes teach throwing, grappling, and self-defense techniques while emphasizing mental discipline and proper form. Students develop physical strength, confidence, and understanding of judo's philosophical principles through structured practice led by instructors trained by Keiko Fukuda.
Advanced Judo Training
Advanced sessions focus on refining techniques, competitive strategies, and deeper philosophical study for black belt members. Training includes kata forms, sparring, and specialized drills to enhance technical mastery and mental focus under the guidance of Fukuda-trained instructors.
Kata Championship Tournament
The annual Keiko Fukuda Kata Championship showcases all seven Kodokan kata forms, preserving traditional judo techniques. Participants demonstrate precision in prearranged attack-defense sequences, honoring Fukuda's legacy as a master of judo's formal exercises and educational philosophy.
Questions
What judo classes are available for women?
We offer all-levels classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays (6-8 PM) and advanced black belt practice on Saturdays (10 AM-12 PM).
What should I wear for my first class?
Bring a white T-shirt, workout pants, a water bottle. Trim nails and remove all jewelry for safety.
How much does membership cost?
Monthly fees are $75. A judo gi costs approximately $40, and USJF insurance is $50 annually.
Who founded Soko Joshi Judo Club?
The club was founded in 1970 by Keiko Fukuda, the first woman to achieve a 10th-degree black belt in judo history.
