** Great Judo Dojo for those wanting to learn Judo or just want to do "Old Man Judo!" My home Judo Dojo after moving to the Whittier area back in 2020. I formerly trained at Tenri Judo in LA (lots of competition back in the day) and took a break with life happening (work, family, kids, etc.). I decided to get back into judo and found Makoto Kai (Formerly Ogden Judo) and am very glad I did. This judo school is a little different. We have a strong number of BJJ practitioners that are now, or on their way to double black belts in both Judo and BJJ. We're also a dojo that focuses on learning, not purely competition. You're not asked to go HAM every night, and you can practice at your own pace to really learn the art. At the same time, you'll also pick up some catch wrestling and lots of BJJ with newaza so you'll really round out your game - the occasional wrist lock from our Aikido guys may come out now and then too. If you're a working parent, older person, or just want to learn something new and cool, check out Makoto Kai Judo. This is the perfect environment for you. "Old guy Judo" is encouraged - but if you want to compete, you'll also be given the advice and training to succeed in the game. Many of us bring our kids and they just hang out while we practice. We have many shift workers (law enforcement, medical professionals) who train with us. If you want to be able to say you did judo with a 6'8 350lbs player, or even a police chief, swing by! read more

What can I say but this a very versatile gym that fits all your needs. Whether you are a hobbyist like myself or one that wants to compete this is the place for you. You will learn a lot. When I say versatile I mean some of the people in this dojo not only do judo but wrestling, and bjj. We have a lot of competitors who put in the time and effort and got well deserved medals. You are treated like family and they put a big emphasis on safety for the newer judokas and even the older judokas or those with preexisting injuries. I started judo at Orange County Kodokan Judo back in the days but ended up quitting because life happens. At the age of 44 I joined Makoto Kai to pursue my judo journey. If I can do it you can too. Never too late. See you on the mats. read more

Head sensie Matthew vanderhorck is a very knowledgeable and welcoming instructor very humble and committed to his students. Me and my 3 sons have been going for over a year and 2 of my boys are deaf and 1 is also a amputee and. Sensie vanderhorck always takes the extra time to make sure they understand and feel welcomed . This is a great very welcoming dojo and very knowledgeable sensie I would recommend makoto kai to anyone who's looking to Learn judo.. read more

Sensei Matt is an awesome coach. My son is very happy here. This year makes 2 years since he has been in Judo. I will recommend Makoto Kai Judo to anyone. read more

Took my 4 year old toddler here for the first time and he was afraid for the first few minutes. He then started to get comfortable with his sensei and his new friends and quickly started to get the flow of things. He started being part of the group within 30 minutes. I loved watching him..today he learned self discipline and wasnt shy to say hello and respect the sensei. He doesn't even like saying hello to my mom! Even with a fight! So I was amazed. Will be coming back... The first week was free...but we will be signing him up which is 60 a month and another 50 per year for judo insurance purposes. read more

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I take private lessons here from Brendan. I've had an amazing experience going from complete novice to having a lot more fun and confidence in my ground game and conditioning. Brendan is a very understanding and kind instructor, but serious about his teaching and technique. He always is able to answer my questions completely and motivate me to get better. Ogden Judo also partners with Lasang Jiu Jitsu, so its a great grappling school to help work on your throws, scrambles, as well as ground game. I also train muay thai, so this has been a real treat for me every week. The prices are also very affordable and competitive. I can't think of any negative. You can call Brendan directly to schedule a private at 562-546-9273. You won't regret it! Do it!! read more

Longest running Judo Dojo on the West Coast. Olympic Judo training, great discipline, some of the best cardio you can get along with balance core stability. A must for All ages read more

Every time I have been to this gym I have been treated with a lot of respect. My friend Jovany teaches Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Sambo here as well as being a 4th degree black belt in Judo. Sensei David is a really chill guy who takes his teaching very seriously. From what I have seen here, these guys truly care about their students. A great place for kids and adults. read more

Before starting my membership at Ogden Judo School, my dad was and still is a member! He praised our Sensei Eddie which encouraged me to follow in his footsteps. I was nervous as hell, but the class setting is so "normal" an down to earth that i settled in quickly! On average, there are usually 2-4 male adults in the class regularly, and maybe 1 female adult. There are teenagers including myself that range from the ages of 13-19 and there are maybe 5-6 of us at a time. There is a hand full of small children that regularly attend class. Our membership is the most affordable out there, for a MMA class you're looking at about $200, not here! Our Sensei's are Professional, respectful, and serious about handwork! read more