About Keidokwai Judo Club ​

Founded in 1942, Blackpool Keidokwai Judo Club is one of the oldest judo clubs in the UK. Our teaching philosophy remains closely aligned with the principles of Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo.

While we keep our students up to date with the latest rules and competition guidance, our emphasis is on traditional Japanese judo — focusing on technique, balance, and skill development through practice.

We welcome beginners and experienced players alike, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for everyone to learn and grow.

Our Approach ​

Our classes are designed to meet the needs of each student, using varied and engaging methods to keep learning both effective and enjoyable.

We teach through a collaborative style, encouraging even our youngest judoka to not only learn techniques but to understand how and why they work. This helps students develop their own style while gaining a strong foundation in movement, balance, and posture — skills that carry over into all sports.

Coach Development ​

We’re proud of our long history of supporting aspiring coaches.
In 2011, Keidokwai became the first club in the UK to have two under-18 coaches qualify as UKCC Level 1 Judo Coaches — both of whom went on to achieve UKCC Level 2 in 2014.

All our coaches are fully qualified British Judo Association coaches, with Level 1, 2, and 3 certifications. Every coach also holds:

• Enhanced DBS certification (regularly rechecked)
• Current First Aid certification
• Current Safeguarding and Protecting Children qualifications

We also encourage experienced players to assist our coaches as part of their own development and learning journey.

Recognition ​

Our club and coaches have been recognised nationally and locally, including multiple awards and finalist positions — most recently in 2024:

• 🥋 British Judo Club of the Year Finalist
• 🥋 Active Lives Community Awards — Blackpool Club of the Year Finalist
• 🥋 British Judo Coach of the Year

Learn More ​

To read more about our history and culture, check out the recent feature by Active Lancashire:
👉 Read the article on Canva