A Modern Martial Art
The modern martial art of Judo was formed in Japan in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano. At the end of the Samurai era techniques of the ancient Japanese art of Jujitsu were modified to create a safe form of self defense that could also serve as a form of physical education. Rules were later developed to provide a safe means of Judo competition. Students of the art learn to defeat an opponent by the skilled application of throws, chokes, pins, and armlocks.

An Olympic Sport
Judo is practiced worldwide and has been an Olympic Sport since 1964. More countries send Judo teams to international tournaments than in any other sport, except soccer.

Who Can Practice
Judo is practiced worldwide by men and women of all ages. BMAI has a Children’s Judo Program for boys and girls (ages 6-11) and a Teen/Adult Judo Program for men and women (ages 12 and older). Students of varying sizes and skill levels practice and learn together at BMAI.

A Way Of Life
"Judo is the way to the most effective use of both physical and spiritual strength. By training you in attacks and defenses it refines your body and your soul and helps you make the spiritual essence of judo a part of your very being. In this way you are able to perfect yourself and contribute something of value to the world. This is the final goal of judo discipline.”
– Dr. Jigoro Kano, The Founder of Judo

The Gentle Way
Judo translates as “the gentle way,” a concept that reflects the gentle nature of a person who masters the art, but don’t be fooled by the name; Judo is a full-contact activity with very rigorous workouts.

What to Expect
As a beginning student you will be led step-by-step through simple falling exercises called ukemi. Learning the techniques of ukemi will allow you to fall safely when thrown by your training partner. You will be introduced to basic off-balancing concepts and carefully learn the basic throws of Judo. You will also be introduced to the basic pinning and escaping techniques of Judo ground fighting. The knowledgeable instructors at BMAI will closely follow your progress and encourage you in your pursuit of Judo.

The Instructors
The chief instructor of the BMAI Judo Program is Sensei Steve Nisewander. Sensei Nisewander has trained in judo for over 40 years and holds the rank of sandan (third degree black belt). The instructors of the BMAI Children's Judo Program are Pieter Karlik and I Nengah Mandra. Sensei Billy Dover also assists with both the children's and adults' classes. Overseeing the BMAI Judo Program is BMAI Founder, Sensei Alan Best. All judo instructors at Best Martial Arts Institute are certified black belts through the United States Judo Association (USJA).

A Safe Place To Learn
All classes at BMAI are carefully supervised by qualified instructors. It is a nonthreatening, positive place to train seriously in Judo as a martial art, martial sport, and way of life.

Learn More About Judo
An excellent resource online for information about this fascinating art is wwww.judoinfo.com Whether you are considering starting judo, or an advanced student of the art, it is an excellent resource for judo history, philosophy, traditions, techniques, terminology, competition rules, and more.

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