Midway Judo

Business Details

50+ Years

experience

Welcome to Midway Judo

Midway Judo is a non-profit organization committed to advancing traditional Kodokan Judo. Established in 1958, we are registered with USA Judo, the national governing body for the sport. Our club welcomes members of all ages and skill levels, fostering a family-friendly environment where individuals and families train together. Judo, founded by Professor Jigoro Kano in 1882, emphasizes physical fitness, mental discipline, and the principle of maximum efficiency with minimum effort. Our experienced instructors, including multiple black belt holders, guide students through techniques such as throws, grappling, and joint locks. Classes cater to beginners, juniors, seniors, and families, with structured programs designed to build proficiency and confidence.

We prioritize community engagement, offering classes that accommodate diverse needs while promoting the values of respect, perseverance, and teamwork. Our facility in West St. Paul has served as a cornerstone for local Judo enthusiasts for over six decades. Members benefit from a structured curriculum aligned with Olympic standards, ensuring both competitive and recreational growth. Midway Judo remains dedicated to preserving the integrity of Kodokan Judo while making it accessible to all who seek its physical and mental rewards.

Services

Judo Classes Beginner Training Family Programs Competitive Coaching Mental Discipline Workshops

Details

Year established: 1958

Highlights and features

Experienced instructors with decades of Kodokan Judo expertise.
Family-friendly environment fostering intergenerational training.
Structured programs for beginners, competitors, and fitness enthusiasts.
Emphasis on mental discipline and physical conditioning.
Community-focused approach with over 60 years of local service.

Associations and certifications

USA Judo

Website

Update Listing

Services

Judo Classes

Midway Judo offers comprehensive Judo training for all skill levels. Our classes focus on traditional Kodokan techniques including throws, grappling, and joint locks. Students develop physical strength, mental discipline, and self-defense skills through structured lessons. The program emphasizes safety, proper form, and progressive mastery of Judo principles.

Family Programs

Family-friendly Judo sessions accommodate multiple generations training together. These classes promote teamwork, communication, and mutual support while teaching age-appropriate techniques. Families benefit from shared physical activity that builds trust and strengthens relationships through martial arts practice.

Competitive Coaching

Specialized coaching prepares athletes for Judo competition at local and national levels. Training includes tournament strategy, match preparation, and advanced technique refinement. Coaches with decades of competitive experience guide students through Olympic-style competition formats and rules.

People

Cary Yamanaka

6th Degree Black Belt

With over 40 years of Judo experience, Cary Yamanaka leads advanced technique instruction. He specializes in competitive strategy and mentorship for elite athletes.

Gary Berquist

6th Degree Black Belt

Gary Berquist focuses on foundational Judo principles for beginners. He brings decades of experience teaching family-oriented classes and youth development programs.

Questions

What Judo styles do you teach?

We specialize in traditional Kodokan Judo, the original style established by Professor Jigoro Kano in 1882.

Are there family discount options?

Yes, our Family Membership at $90/month accommodates multiple family members training together.

Do you offer women-only classes?

While we don't have separate women-only classes, our family programs provide comfortable co-ed training environments.

What equipment is required?

Beginners receive a Judo-gi with the introductory course. Advanced students need competition-grade uniforms and protective gear.

Reviews (4)

Write a Review

Nicolas Gonzalez

Apr 21, 2019 Report

0 egos sensei's teach for love to the sport since this place is a non-profit organization, really good place for kids and adults.

Paige LaRue

Dec 29, 2018 Report

Very good instruction at all levels, Family friendly. I will be continuing to practice Judo at this Dojo.

Megan Sempre

Oct 06, 2015 Report

I started at Midway Judo Club in January 2011 without any previous martial arts experience. Although the learning curve can be steep, Midway does a fantastic job of easing beginners into the sport. During the first couple of courses you become comfortable taking falls, and learning basic throws. The sensei's ensure that you're ready to mix in with the rest of the group before you begin sparring.
Judo is a tough sport, and the workouts at Midway are extremely demanding (even the warm-ups can be difficult for beginners). But, the entire club treats each other like family - they push each other,

Jabir Yusoff

Jan 29, 2015 Report

I found Midway Judo Club a few months ago, when I decided to start regularly doing judo again after about a seven-year hiatus. Everyone's been very welcoming, and there was none of the posturing you sometimes encounter when joining a club as a black belt. It's a good community and I enjoy everyone's company just as much as I do practicing judo at the club. It's a great club for both experienced players and newbies alike. The format of the lessons is fairly traditional, i.e., warm ups, uchi komi, nage komi, technique of the day, and randori. But there's a separate section for newbies to learn the