JUDO is a Japanese art and competitive Olympic sport that includes the techniques of throwing and grappling, including applications of joint locks and strangle holds. Prearranged attack / defense forms are also practiced. Judo is excellent for self-defense and for overall health as you gain confidence while developing the mind, body, and spirit through exercise and discipline.
Also included are philosophical lessons, since the ultimate aim of Judo practice is to improve oneself both physically and mentally in order to better society. Soko Joshi Judo Club was founded by instructor Keiko Fukuda. Her grandfather, a jujitsu master, was Dr. Kano's first sensei. Fukuda sensei was the highest ranking female judoka in the world (10th Dan).
Also included are philosophical lessons, since the ultimate aim of Judo practice is to improve oneself both physically and mentally in order to better society. Soko Joshi Judo Club was founded by instructor Keiko Fukuda. Her grandfather, a jujitsu master, was Dr. Kano's first sensei. Fukuda sensei was the highest ranking female judoka in the world (10th Dan).
Services
Anyone is welcome to observe any class; proof of full vaccination status and face-mask are required. Advanced practice is reserved for black belts and any lower ranks invited by the head instructor. Preparedness for Saturday class is largely based on having strong ukemi. We are not currently offering a kids' class and cannot accommodate girls under 13.
On Shihan Keiko Fukuda's passing, her lifelong friend and protector, Dr. Shelley Fernandez, founded the Keiko Fukuda & Shelley Fernandez Girls and Women Judo Foundation. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Fernandez for her continued support of and dedication to judo.
Filmmaker Yuriko Gamo Romer documented the life-long journey of Fukuda sensei's decision to defy thousands of years of tradition, choose her own path, and become the highest-ranking woman in judo history.Mrs. Judo: Be Strong, Be Gentle, Be Beautiful was released in 2012. Fukuda sensei held the first women's judo camp in 1974, and the annual event continues today.
Filmmaker Yuriko Gamo Romer documented the life-long journey of Fukuda sensei's decision to defy thousands of years of tradition, choose her own path, and become the highest-ranking woman in judo history.Mrs. Judo: Be Strong, Be Gentle, Be Beautiful was released in 2012. Fukuda sensei held the first women's judo camp in 1974, and the annual event continues today.
Reviews (4)
Chris K.
Aug 31, 2017
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This my 11-year-old daughter's third year at Soko Joshi Judo Club. This is the only all women and girls judo club and it's nurturing, respectful, grounding, solid. The founder of this dojo, Fukuda Sensei passed on in 2013, however, her students continue her tradition. All the senseis are amazing women: intelligent, strong, kind, beautiful- just the way Fukuda Sensei inspired. Wilina Sensei heads this dojo now and she's the reason we continue to train here. Don't get me wrong, all the Senseis are worth their weight in gold, but Wilina Sensei trained with the founder the longest
Tommy J.
Aug 30, 2013
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We are travelers from Reno and after meeting many of the women from this school at the Keiko Fukuda Joshi Judo Camp, my daughter and I decided to visit this Dojo. History aside (which is amazing) the Sensei Milena (sorry if i spelled it wrong) was great in both technique and critique. We were only able to attend 1 week and they made us feel so welcome. I learned so much and in just one week, I feel I have improved immensely. I like to compete in Judo, shiai or jiai and know little about the Kata or Forms. I feel that this sensei, with her attention to detail and ability to see my strengths and
Kris F.
Jul 12, 2010
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Great instruction. The head Sensei, Keiko Fukuda is the highest ranking woman in the world, and learned from Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo. Besides the incredible legacy that she carries, she is sweet, patient, and passionate about Judo. All the instructors there are technical, experienced, and very patient! Every time I practice there I walk away feeling like I made solid progress. Since this class is for women only, it is a nice reprieve from the usually testosterone-heavy martial arts. The emphasis is on technical excellence, and they don't let you get away with trying to muscle through
Tim O.
Aug 27, 2009
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If I were a woman I would train at Soko Joshi, but since I am not I have to be satisfied with the once a month Kata clinics that are open to judokas of any gender.
The instruction here is awesome, very traditional Kodokan judo from 10th dan Keiko Fukuda Sensei and her high ranking student instructors.
Soko Joshi is located at 1622 Castro Street in Noe Valley.
The instruction here is awesome, very traditional Kodokan judo from 10th dan Keiko Fukuda Sensei and her high ranking student instructors.
Soko Joshi is located at 1622 Castro Street in Noe Valley.
